Andrew Wolstenholme will take over Europe’s largest infrastructure project in September succeeding Rob Holden who is stepping down in mid-July.

Wolstenholme is currently Director of Innovation and Strategic Capability at Balfour Beatty and has previously been Construction Director on the Heathrow Express Rail Link and BAA’s Director of Capital Projects.

Crossrail Chairman Terry Morgan said: “I’m delighted to announce the appointment of Andrew Wolstenholme as Crossrail’s new Chief Executive. Andrew is an outstanding candidate to oversee the delivery of this critically important project for London and the UK.

“Construction of Crossrail is accelerating and we are now less than one year away from the start of tunnelling to build the major new rail tunnels under London.

“Andrew will be joining Crossrail at a strategically important time, just ahead of intensive construction getting underway, and will lead the project into its next phase of delivery.

“Andrew will also be responsible for mobilising up to 14,000 people to work on the project and the delivery of our commitment to leave a major skills legacy through the training of at least 3,500 people to work underground via the UK Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy in east London.”

Wolstenholme said: “Crossrail is a construction project of epic proportions and one of huge importance to Londoners.

“It is a privilege to be given the opportunity to lead one of the biggest infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the UK.

“Crossrail will transform rail travel in London and the south east, delivering much needed additional transport capacity, reduced journey times and new train services.

“With the first tunnel boring machines due to arrive in less than nine months from now, Crossrail is moving ahead at significant speed and I’m immensely looking forward to getting down to work.

“My overarching priority is to deliver this project for London, on time and on budget.”