NewsrailwayAuckland Transport Taps Up Hitachi Rail For Contactless Payments
railway
Railway Technology
Mar 05, 2025Auckland Transport Taps Up Hitachi Rail For Contactless Payments
Hitachi Rail and Auckland Transport have deployed contactless payments for seamless multimodal travel in Auckland, New Zealand.
Commuters can now use Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, or American Express debit or credit cards, as well as digital wallets on smartphones or smart devices for seamless journeys.
The project entailed a comprehensive upgrade of the payment validation infrastructure, including the integration of the Transcity account-based ticketing (ABT) back-office and application programming interfaces (APIs), 3,825 bus validators and 180 platform validators.
This was achieved through staged hardware and software upgrades that allowed for the implementation of the technology without disrupting passenger journeys.
In addition, 100 new card readers for gates at rail and ferry platforms were installed.
The integration of all of Auckland Transport’s services, which includes train, bus, and ferry operations, was a crucial part of the project deliverables.
This integration supports various contactless fare payments and harmonises with Auckland Transport’s existing technology framework.
Auckland Transport chief technology officer Roger Jones said: “AT will continue to invest in ways to make it easy, safe, and reliable to get around using public transport.
“Working with Hitachi Rail to seamlessly enable contactless payments to be accepted across our public transport network is one example of this investment.”
Auckland’s contactless ticketing system has recorded 3.5 million taps since launching in November 2024.
The system went live across Auckland’s public transport network in 15 months from project launch to full implementation.
Hitachi Rail RCS vice president Jean-Marc Reynaud said: “This contract celebrates the long-lasting support of Hitachi Rail to Auckland Transport for the integrated fare system in the city.”
Last month, Hitachi Rail, in partnership with SISINT and Conecticabo, secured contracts from Infraestruturas de Portugal to upgrade telecommunications and passenger information systems on Lisbon’s Cascais Line.
The project includes deploying a fully automated Passenger Information System across all stations.
4
Recent CommentsJD
JD
John Doe1 week ago
Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius! Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius! Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius! Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius!
100
JDJD
2repliesJD
John Doe1 week ago
Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius! Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius! Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius! Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius!
100
JDJD
2repliesJD
John Doe1 week ago
Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius! Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius! Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius! Lorem ipsum, dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Repudiandae, exercitationem earum hic numquam assumenda voluptatem velit nemo consequatur sed, ullam, iste porro vitae eius placeat dolorum dolore dolor! Inventore, eius!
100
JDJD
2replies
RAILWAY INTERNATIONAL
The Ho Chi Minh City Metro Is Officially InauguratedAsk For More Information…railway
14 March 2025
Rail Business Daily
Avanti West Coast Employee Blows The Final Whistle On 35-Year Railway CareerAn Avanti West Coast employee has completed her final working day on the railway after a notching up a 35-year career covering a multitude of roles.
Karen Grimshaw, Avanti West Coast Station Manager at Stockport, led the team of 47 people for the last time at the Greater Manchester station, which sees over 400 trains depart each day.
Karen joined the railway in January 1989, aged 24, after a desire to change careers when she saw a job advert in the local newspaper. She previously worked at a McVitie’s factory packing biscuits.
Her first role on the railway was a carriage cleaner at Longsight depot – where Avanti West Coast’s Pendolino fleet are now maintained. Karen then moved to Davenport station working in the Ticket Office before taking up the role of ‘chargewoman’ at Manchester Victoria station, which involved dispatching trains and leading a team of platform assistants.
Following maternity leave, Karen returned to the railway as a mobile cleaner that saw her cleaning trains while in passenger service. She took the of ‘chargewoman’ again but at Stockport station, before travelling the West Coast Main Line as a Revenue Protection Inspector.
Karen then worked as an Onboard Manager – looking after traincrew based out of Preston and Carlisle, followed by Liverpool and Manchester.
For the last 15 years, she has worked as a Station Manager at locations in the North West and Midlands, including Manchester, Stockport, Macclesfield, Crewe, and Stoke-on-Trent.
While working in these roles, Karen attained a Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership – one of her proudest achievements.
Karen’s son, Adam, followed in her footsteps – joining the railway nearly 10 years ago as a Customer Service Assistant on the platforms at Macclesfield station. He is now a Train Manager at Macclesfield Piccadilly and credits his mum for choosing a career in rail.
“My mum inspires me. She’s shown me that hard work and dedication outweighs anything”, said Adam.
“Since starting on the railway, I’ve received amazing comments from colleagues in various roles telling me how much respect and appreciation they have for my mum. This inspired me and showed just how much of an impact my mum has had on the railway and colleagues”, he added.
Karen said: “It’s been a true pleasure working alongside colleagues and I’m incredibly grateful for the memories I have from my time onboard and at stations. It’s the teams I’ve worked with that have made my time on the railway a special one. There’s way too many of them to thank and I’m so privileged to have been part of the journey. While I’m excited for this new chapter, I’ll miss being part of the team.”railway
13 March 2025
Rail Business Daily
New Images Show What Cardiff Central Railway Station Could Look Like After TransformationBrand new images show what Cardiff Central could look like after an investment programme of up to £140 million to enhance the station.
The full business case for the proposed improvements at Cardiff Central station was submitted at the end of last year and planning documents will be submitted soon. The delivery of the scheme is subject to planning and full business case approval.
Transport for Wales is leading the scheme to revamp Wales’ busiest railway station and the new visuals provide a future glimpse of how the station could look.
The proposed improvements will modernise the station and support long-term passenger growth, while still complementing the history and heritage of the building.
There will be a focus on alleviating overcrowding and congestion and enabling better accessibility for those with reduced mobility.
Plans include a larger concourse to increase capacity, improve passenger flow and access through additional gate-lines, and help customers link up with other ways to travel.
Other customer benefits include improved waiting, retail and cycle storage facilities.
Alexia Course, Chief Commercial Officer at TfW, said: “Today, we’ve revealed images which show what Cardiff Central could look like as part of plans to enhance the station.
“The investment of up to £140 million means we can deliver improvements to Cardiff Central to make it fit for a capital city and sustain future growth.
“The proposals for the station form part of a wider significant investment going into transforming transport in central Cardiff, including ambitious regeneration plans.
“We’ve submitted the full business case for the scheme and we’ll soon be submitting the planning documents, and if this is approved, we can progress with the delivery of the enhancements.”
The Department for Transport, Cardiff Capital Region and the Welsh Government will provide up to £140 million for the enhancements.
The Welsh Government has provided significant investment for transport improvements in Wales, including £800m to deliver a brand-new fleet of trains. Passengers are already seeing the benefits with faster, more frequent services and cheaper tickets through ‘tap-in-tap-out’ available across 95 stations.railway
13 March 2025
Rail Business Daily
Yorkshire’S Three Metro Mayors To Work Together To Improve Rail ConnectivityYorkshire’s three Metro Mayors have united under a new White Rose Agreement to champion Yorkshire and work together across key areas where they share mutual priorities.
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin, South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard, and Mayor of York and North Yorkshire David Skaith, signed the Agreement at the historic Selby Abbey which borders the three Mayoral areas.
The Agreement outlines the priority issues the Mayors will work on together as well as what they will champion and advocate for Yorkshire collectively at a national and international level.
The Agreement focuses on five key areas:
· Achieve good growth – including collaborating on Local Growth Plans, driving investment, creating jobs and making Yorkshire the forefront of the green industrial revolution.
· Promoting Yorkshire – champion Yorkshire as a place to do business, attract international investment, enhancing the visitor economy and attract high profile cultural and sporting events.
· Improve rail connectivity – continue to advocate for Northern Powerhouse Rail and for the upgrading of the East Coast Mainline and continue to work with the government to increase capacity at Leeds, Sheffield and York stations.
· Improve cross-border bus services – work together to improve services and deliver bus reform to connect towns and cities within Yorkshire.
· Keep our communities safe – work together in their Police and Crime Commissioner roles to tackle violence against women and girls, cross-border crime, organised crime and youth crime prevention.
Following the 2 May 2024 Mayoral elections there are now three directly elected regional Mayors in Yorkshire with a combined population of 4.5 million people.
The White Rose Agreement will allow the Mayors to harness the powers of devolution to improve the lives of the millions of people they represent and work together towards collective goals for the whole of Yorkshire.
The White Rose Agreement recognises the power and authority the Mayors have in their own respective areas to improve the lives of people who live there with solutions that are right for them, but seeks to bring the Mayors together where working together on shared objectives can lead to better outcomes for Yorkshire as a whole.
The Mayors were joined by Council Leaders from the Mayoral Combined Authority areas who have all backed the White Rose Agreement. Mayors and Leaders will all work together to deliver on the priority areas.
The three Yorkshire Mayors also announced that they are already delivering on the ambitions in the White Rose Agreement with Lord David Blunkett leading a review for them on improving connectivity across Yorkshire which will be submitted to the government. Lord Blunkett is a political heavyweight who will bring his considerable experience to help deliver a better future for people who live, work and visit Yorkshire and his appointment shows what can be achieved by the three Mayors working together.
Following the elections for the Hull and East Yorkshire Mayor in May all three Mayor’s will seek to work closely with them and discuss being involved in the White Rose Agreement.
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “We’re more than lucky to be able to call Gods Own Country our home. Not just because of our past but because of our future. And as the three Mayors who represent our region, we’re determined to build that future together; to build on the huge opportunities in front of us, and to be tackling our long-standing challenges.
“We are coming together at this moment because devolution gives us the chance to work together to take that future into our own hands; to grow not just South Yorkshire’s economy, or Yorkshire’s economy, but to play our full part in the renewal of the whole of the UK. Together we can tackle the transport challenges that have held us back, bring in the investment that will amplify our huge ambition, and create more good jobs in the industries of the future.
“And we now have a partner in government who want to not only recognise that ambition but to work with us to achieve it.
“I couldn’t be more pleased to be able to work with my friends Tracy and David to launch this White Rose Agreement, and to be celebrating and championing our region together on behalf of the millions of people we represent. We’re the biggest and best region in the country and we’re going to be even louder than ever.”
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire said: “Joining forces with Oliver and David will amplify efforts as we work with the government to boost growth and opportunities here in Yorkshire and across the UK.
“The White Rose Agreement is devolution in action and ushers in a golden era of partnership working across God’s Own Country to boost our economy.
“Our ambitions extend well beyond our boundaries, which is why I’m delighted to be working with Lord Blunkett who will review rail services and infrastructure across Yorkshire, so that we can identify the best way to boost connections and growth.”
Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, said: “People across Yorkshire have a strong local identity, but when it comes to keeping communities safe, getting to work or college, or doing business, people don’t care about boundaries between one area of Yorkshire or another. They just care that they’re connected to opportunity and that’s what the White Rose Agreement is all about.
“Yorkshire is a place that’s beloved by the people in it, and as a globally recognised brand. We want to share the unique strengths we each bring to the table, to ensure that we’re championing the region as a great place to live, work, visit and invest.
“Working together, we want every town, every rural hamlet, every coastal community, as well as our big cities, to feel the benefits of our collective ambition to deliver more for the people that we serve.”
Lord Blunkett said: “Decent transport connections are key to economic growth and a society where opportunities are spread across the country.
“Today’s White Rose Agreement is a historic day for Yorkshire and a foundation on which we can build.
“I’m very pleased to work with Yorkshire’s Mayors on this by leading a review on improving rail connections and services for the north.”railway
13 March 2025
Rail Business Daily
‘Northern Arc’ Linked By Liverpool-Manchester Railway Could Match Oxford-Cambridge...A concerted focus on the internationally significant investment opportunities in the North West – linked by a new railway – could lead the UK’s economic growth over the next decade, with the right infrastructure and national support needed to unlock untapped potential.
A ‘Northern Arc’ – the stretch from the Mersey to the Pennines – is already home to two investment zones, 5.4 million people, and creates an annual GVA of £150 billion and £23.5 billion in exports.
Now, Mayors Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram say that the cumulative impact of a joined-up approach to regional investment, underpinned by delivery of a new railway, could put the North West and neighbouring communities on a par with successful counterparts like Oxford-Cambridge, and support the UK to grow at a faster pace and greater scale.
The Liverpool-Manchester Railway is the missing piece of the North’s transport infrastructure, with studies showing it would add £7 billion GVA to the UK economy, support delivery of around 300,000 new homes over 20 years and help create more than 40,000 high-quality jobs by 2050.
More capacity on a modern railway would drastically improve connectivity between the region’s internationally significant physical assets including the Port of Liverpool and Manchester Airport – helping boost international trade. It would also foster innovation and a critical mass of industries along a major growth corridor, creating opportunities for young people and attracting, retaining and developing the world’s best talent in the North West.
Speaking at an investor round table at MIPIM today, Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham and Mayor of Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram outlined how the ‘Northern Arc’ will make a major contribution to the national growth mission. It will do so by creating the right conditions to fuel housebuilding, business growth and innovation, and bolster international trade.
The city-regions have also started work with independent economists to understand the full scale of potential of such an economic supercluster, with plans to collaborate with local authorities and the private sector in the North West and across the Pennines border. It will build on the model of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc – now widely regarded as a successful model of attracting investment and innovation.
Investment opportunities include regeneration and development opportunities to support advancement in life sciences; advanced materials and manufacturing; low-carbon and net zero sectors; as well as AI and sustainable aviation fuels.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “Our city-regions have their own growth stories and opportunities, such as the Old Trafford regeneration project and Atom Valley in Greater Manchester. But our combined pipelines of investment opportunities – the Northern Arc – will create a powerful northern engine to fuel national growth, one greater than the sum of our parts. To achieve its full potential, we need a new Liverpool-Manchester railway – a crucial missing link that must be a priority for the UK’s infrastructure plan.
“The sheer scale of untapped growth potential of the North means that, with the right government support, the size of the prize could match that of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. This is not about competing – we are already creating valuable partnerships with Cambridge – it’s about recognising that this approach to creating superclusters can deliver the same, if not greater economic clout in the North West than anywhere else in the country.”
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool City Region, said: “The Northern Arc represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the North West into a global powerhouse for world-leading businesses.
“In the Liverpool City Region, we’re already primed to lead the way in high-growth industries such as life sciences, advanced manufacturing and low-carbon technologies. And with investments like the £550m Health Innovation Liverpool Campus and the expanding Sci-Tech Daresbury, we’re creating opportunities for businesses to thrive and innovation to flourish.
“The Northern Arc is about connecting these hubs with Greater Manchester and beyond. The Liverpool to Manchester railway presents us with a fantastic opportunity to do this. With Government backing, this strategic move will unlock new jobs, drive economic growth, and secure the North’s place at the forefront of the UK’s future prosperity.”
As well as unlocking delivery of new homes, the initiative will support established and emerging high-growth sectors to ensure the North becomes home to world-leading businesses and a magnet for talent.
In Greater Manchester: The city-region has a ten-year plan to turbocharge growth to deliver £1billion of investment every year over the next decade through a single pipeline. The plan is targeted at six Growth Locations, nationally significant sites with the highest potential to boost the regional economy and bring benefits to all 10 boroughs. It includes the Old Trafford Regeneration Scheme, the biggest sports-led regeneration scheme since the London 2012 Olympics. The area around Manchester United’s Stadium is a key part of the Western Gateway Growth Location, which could unlock 48,000 new jobs, 17,000 new homes, and add £4.2 billion to the local economy.
In Liverpool City Region: As the most globally recognisable city-region brand outside London, Liverpool City Region is leveraging its strengths in health and life sciences, AI, and culture to attract investment from global markets. Kyndryl, the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, has recently announced plans to establish a new tech hub in the Liverpool City Region, creating up to 1,000 AI-related jobs. Health and life sciences projects include the £38m unique Mental Health Digital Research Centre at Maghull Health Park and the £40m Hemisphere 1 & 2, Paddington Village developments in Liverpool city centre, which is also home to the £200m Infection Innovation Consortium.
The Liverpool end of the Liverpool-Manchester Railway features a £2.5bn transformational development opportunity in the regeneration of Central Station right at the heart of the city’s regional commuter network, retail and cultural offers. The opening of Everton FC’s new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock also opens up residential and regeneration opportunities to the North of the city region.
The Mayors and Combined Authorities plan to capitalise on greater devolution and closer relationships with Government to work in partnership with institutions, investors and businesses to create new partnership models that unlock investment and growth.
That approach is being taken to the Liverpool-Manchester Railway, for which a new board and partnership board – chaired by former Rail Minister Huw Merriman – has been set up to support the development and delivery of the project.
It aims to develop a new, bottom-up rather than top-down model for delivering major infrastructure projects, one that involves local and regional leaders that know their economies and communities best, as well as the private sector.
Huw Merriman, Chair of the Liverpool-Manchester Railway Partnership Board, said: “The world’s first inter-city railway was built between Liverpool and Manchester by the region’s industrial pioneers. Almost 200 years on, the Mayors and council leaders have set up the Partnership Board which, like last time, aims not just to deliver a new railway for people and freight but a backbone of new economic and social opportunities.
“Our objective is clear; to deliver a new railway which delivers faster, more reliable and decarbonised journeys on a new corridor for jobs, homes, green energy production, skills and regeneration. If we deliver this then we can help further transform the region and, with it, the balance of the UK economy.”railway
13 March 2025
RAILWAY USA
Optimise Your Railway Operations With Frauscher’S Point Control SystemWayside Object Controllers (WOCs) play a pivotal role in modern railway signalling as they enable the creation of decentralised systems, where the core system responsible for controlling track movements can be centralised as a dedicated server or located in the cloud. Meanwhile, the control of various field elements, such as track sections and points, remains managed locally by the WOCs. These controllers act as vital intermediaries, linking field elements with the central interlocking system. By transmitting commands and relaying information, WOCs ensure seamless communication and operational control of the respective elements. Additionally, WOCs can gather diagnostic information from these field elements and monitor their status, which enhances the overall reliability and availability of the whole system. A notable example of a WOC is the Frauscher Point Control System which provides a SIL 4 solution that includes all necessary components for control, detection and monitoring of point machines. Our Point Control System is designed with exceptional flexibility, which enables its seamless integration with a wide range of point machines. This solution can control 20 point machines within a single system, enabling efficient management of multiple devices through one communication interface. Furthermore, the Point Control System also adheres to standardised communication, security, diagnostic and maintenance interfaces such as SCI, SSI, SDI and SMI according to the EULYNX standard. The support for standardised interfaces carries substantial benefits for the operator as it enables greater interoperability between different components, while ensuring increased system reliability and easy integration into existing systems. For instance, thanks to standardisation, WOCs such as the Frauscher Point Control System promote increased product diversity and grant the operator more choice in procuring components according to specific project requirements, irrespective of the manufacturer. Transform Your Rail Network with Cutting-Edge Industry Standards The Frauscher Point Control System consists of FAdP Point Control, which is a EULYNX compliant object controller designed to control, detect and monitor point machines, as well as Frauscher Connect, a dedicated connectivity manager for all Frauscher systems. Its maximum scalability results in a seamless integration into projects of any size, from small-scale installations to large, complex railway networks, ensuring safe and reliable control of single and multi-motor turnouts. The FAdP Point Control is designed with a number of key features that prioritise efficiency and adaptability in various operational environments. For instance, its compact design makes it an ideal choice for installations with spatial limitations. The DIN rail mounting further streamlines installation by offering a standardised, and space-saving system for mounting the device. With its exceptional versatility and flexibility, this solution is designed to be compatible with a wide range of interfaces. A core component of FAdP Point Control is the PCU, which supports 4, 7, 9, or 11-wire configurations while accommodating various power supply requirements. One Point Control System can contain up to 20 Point Control Units (PCU) and thereby control 20 point machines via a single communication interface, depending on the precise configuration. Such versatility ensures the PCU aligns with a diverse set of point machine standards and interfaces employed across the globe. Furthermore, thanks to Frauscher Connect, the system adheres to the latest standards in terms of security, meaning it can be utilised in category 3 networks according to EN50159. Gain More Control Over Your Operations The Frauscher Point Control System is also equipped with advanced functionalities including condition monitoring, which is available without the need for additional or external hardware. The solution is able to track critical parameters of individual point machines, including their motor current, voltage, power, and turning time. The diagnostic and health data can be conveniently accessed through the cloud-based diagnostics platform, Frauscher Insights. This built-in monitoring capability provides information about the operational performance and condition of point machines, enhancing maintenance planning and reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures which in turn improves service availability and reduces maintenance related costs. Connectivity Managed by Frauscher Connect The second integral part of the Point Control System comes in the form of Frauscher Connect, a versatile connectivity manager for all Frauscher systems. As a comprehensive connectivity solution, Frauscher Connect is designed to provide secure and reliable communication based on EULYNX and System Pillar standards. Frauscher Connect supports open network communication according to category 3 networks as per EN 50159, providing a secure and robust connectivity framework. Furthermore, Frauscher Connect provides generic interfaces that are developed in accordance with the EULYNX Baseline 4 standard, including interfaces for diagnostic and maintenance purposes (SDI and SMI), and security services (SSI). In this sense, Frauscher Connect enables the secure transmission of a variety of data and information between individual Frauscher subsystems for various tasks such as train detection and point control, in line with the highest safety and security standards. Versatile Solution Tailored to Your Project Needs In conclusion, Frauscher’s Point Control System, with its flexible hardware and standardised, EULYNX-compliant interfaces, offers a versatile solution for modern railway signalling. By enabling seamless integration with various point machines, the solution ensures that a single system can meet diverse operational needs across different regions and project requirements. The Point Control System therefore guarantees a robust, scalable, and efficient system for managing railway operations. This level of versatility, coupled with the support for standardised interfaces, puts operators in control of their rail networks, so they can reduce costs, choose from a range of product manufacturers and avoid vendor lock-in, among many other benefits. As “Your partner for confidence” Frauscher provides the world’s most reliable field elements for highly available train detection and wayside object controlling, enabling rail operators to run their rail networks with confidence. /www.frauscher.com
Ask For More Information…railway
12 March 2025
Railway Technology
Uk’S Great Western Railway To Introduce New Class 175 TrainsUK-based train operating company Great Western Railway (GWR) has announced the introduction of 26 Class 175 trains to its fleet, aiming to enhance punctuality across its network.
This move is part of GWR’s strategy to modernise its regional and suburban services and align with decarbonisation efforts.
The fleet, comprising ten two-car and 16 three-car trains, is scheduled to commence operations in Devon and Cornwall later this year.
The first stage of this plan will see the replacement of older, less efficient diesel trains with these newer models.
By the end of the following year, all trains are expected to be fully operational.
Peninsula Rail Taskforce chair and councillor Andrea Davis said: “Rail services are a big part of our climate change and economic development offer, and we have been campaigning for extra rolling stock for some time.
“It is also great to hear that the additional trains will mean improvements to services elsewhere across the GWR network, but I am especially delighted with the news for Devon and Cornwall.”
The new trains can be connected to form four, five, or six-car formations, primarily serving the line between Exeter St Davids and Penzance, including routes to Barnstaple and Okehampton.
Before launch, GWR will train staff and prepare Laira depot for train maintenance.
GWR managing director Mark Hopwood said: “The benefits of these trains will be felt by customers across the whole of the GWR network. With more trains we will have more scope to increase resilience where it is needed most, delivering the reliability our communities deserve and need.
“They are a fantastic addition to our fleet and will provide a welcome boost as we seek to rejuvenate our regional and suburban services.”
In February 2024, GWR announced the trialling of UK’s first FastCharge battery technology, using a 2,400kW system to recharge trains in 3.5 minutes, supporting its goal to phase out diesel-only traction by 2040.railway
12 March 2025
Railway News
Keeping Trains Running: How Cableguardian Protects Railways From Extreme WeatherWater damage from flooding, extreme temperatures, high winds and electrical storms are a real danger to signalling power systems.
Network Rail warns that increasing instances of extreme weather may exceed ‘critical coping thresholds.’ As part of CP7, Network Rail has stated it will invest £2.8 billion in core renewals, maintenance and technology to deliver weather resilience benefits, including adaptation plans developed by and for regional networks. Due to budget constraints, however, Network Rail must prioritise where it invests.
What risks do weather events create, and how can signalling power systems become more weather-resilient? This article explores the answers to these questions.
To understand why such investments are crucial, it is important to explore the impact of extreme weather on rail infrastructure designed before climate change was the issue that it is today. Signalling power systems are impacted in different ways. For example, by:
Such events can prove costly. If there is prolonged service disruption, Schedule 8 payments fall to affected train operating companies (TOCs). During the 2022 heatwave, losses reached £30 million in one week alone.
Despite the urgency to locate and fix faults, the still-in-use traditional method of manual inspection is time-consuming and dependent on crew availability. It can also be hard for maintenance engineers to inspect and fix faults during extreme weather events, leading to higher costs and longer disruption times.
Viper Innovations’ CableGuardian’s continuous monitoring detects and alerts cable weaknesses and gives information about outages, particularly those that are made worse by extreme weather. Using Viper Innovations’ V-LIM technology – developed for the offshore oil and gas industry to monitor the critical infrastructure of production control systems – the system monitors insulation resistance, voltage and current, so action can be taken before severe weather impacts signalling power.
Faults and failures caused by extreme weather can be remedied proactively, reducing the risk of costly Schedule 8 payments. For example, CableGuardian supports:
CableGuardian’s capabilities align with CP7’s goals for maintenance and resilience in the face of climate change and more extreme weather events. The system is preventive, mitigating weather impacts and supporting rail reliability, safety and efficiency. By removing the need for manual inspections, reducing downtime and service disruption and ensuring targeted resource allocation, CableGuardian empowers rail asset managers to overcome the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather while prioritising resource efficiency.
Learn more about Viper Innovation’s CableGuadian
This article was originally published by Viper Innovations.railway
12 March 2025
Railway News
Rax Is A Reliable Manufacturer Of Axles For Tram And Metro WheelsetsTrams, trolleybuses and metros create green mobility – an alternative mobility system that is focused on automobile modes of transport, including buses.
In the late 1990s, within the framework of the concept of sustainable development, its component began to spread: the concept of sustainable mobility. In the modern world, there are many sustainable forms of mobility: walking or cycling (scooters), electric public transport, rail and aviation. Safe, economically accessible, efficient and resilient to change, this way of moving people and goods significantly enhances the economic and social development of current and future generations, and significantly minimizes carbon emissions and negative environmental impact.
The population is becoming more environmentally conscious and actively using rail urban transport, so trams and metros require significant attention in terms of ongoing repairs and modernization, including wheelsets.
DDAP-RAKS is also an “integral part” of green mobility and manufactures tram axles and axles for metro wheelsets. The engineering and technological department of DDAP-RAKS has its own library of axle drawings, and the extensive experience of specialists allows us to develop axle drawings according to the customer’s technical specifications. RAX specializes in the production of finished axles or machining of axle blanks according to the customer’s own drawings. DDAP-RAKS production facilities consist of modern equipment and CNC machines that provide high precision machining of cylindrical surfaces and rolling.
DDAP-RAKS actively implements modern technologies and strictly adheres to international quality standards in the production of axles for wheelsets. Thanks to the implemented ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle inspection and other methods of axle control, high quality and reliability of products are ensured. The presence of international certificates confirms the compliance of products with the requirements of the European Union.
All this makes the DDAP-RAKS enterprise a reliable partner in the field of green mobility, contributing to the development of environmentally friendly urban transport.
This article was originally published by DDAP-RAX.railway
12 March 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Class 175 Trains To Help Great Western Railway Improve Rel...The move marks the first stage of the train operator’s plans to rejuvenate its regional and suburban services while preparing the way for decarbonisation.
The 10 two-car trains and 16 three-car trains are expected to start to enter service in Devon and Cornwall later this year, with the entire fleet expected to be operational from the end of next year.
Able to be connected in four, five and six-car formations, the trains will operate predominantly on the line between Exeter St Davids and Penzance, as well as to Barnstaple and Okehampton.
The Class 175s will release trains to improve performance in other areas of the network.
This boost to the fleet will lead to the removal of some of its oldest and least efficient diesel trains, which have become more expensive to maintain as spare parts become more difficult to find on the open market.
GWR Managing Director, Mark Hopwood, said: “The benefits of these trains will be felt by customers across the whole of the GWR network. With more trains we will have more scope to increase resilience where it is needed most, delivering the reliability our communities deserve and need.
“They are a fantastic addition to our fleet and will provide a welcome boost as we seek to rejuvenate our regional and suburban services."
“We’d like to thank our industry partners, and the Department for Transport, for helping us get to this point and we look forward to welcoming the trains into service later this year.”
Chair of the Peninsula Rail Taskforce, Councillor Andrea Davis, said: “Rail services are a big part of our climate change and economic development offer, and we have been campaigning for extra rolling stock for some time.
“It is also great to hear that the additional trains will mean improvements to services elsewhere across the GWR network, but I am especially delighted with the news for Devon and Cornwall.”
In the run-up to service launch, GWR will undertake a comprehensive programme of training for staff, as well as preparing Laira depot, where the trains will be maintained.
Image credit: First Group
Share this articlerailway
12 March 2025Railway News
Optimise Your Railway Operations With Frauscher'S Point Control SystemWayside Object Controllers (WOCs) play a pivotal role in modern railway signalling as they enable the creation of decentralised systems, where the core system responsible for controlling track movements can be centralised as a dedicated server or located in the cloud. Meanwhile, the control of various field elements, such as track sections and points, remains managed locally by the WOCs. These controllers act as vital intermediaries, linking field elements with the central interlocking system. By transmitting commands and relaying information, WOCs ensure seamless communication and operational control of the respective elements. Additionally, WOCs can gather diagnostic information from these field elements and monitor their status, which enhances the overall reliability and availability of the whole system.
A notable example of a WOC is the Frauscher Point Control System which provides a SIL 4 solution that includes all necessary components for control, detection and monitoring of point machines. Our Point Control System is designed with exceptional flexibility, which enables its seamless integration with a wide range of point machines. This solution can control 20 point machines within a single system, enabling efficient management of multiple devices through one communication interface. Furthermore, the Point Control System also adheres to standardised communication, security, diagnostic and maintenance interfaces such as SCI, SSI, SDI and SMI according to the EULYNX standard.
The support for standardised interfaces carries substantial benefits for the operator as it enables greater interoperability between different components, while ensuring increased system reliability and easy integration into existing systems. For instance, thanks to standardisation, WOCs such as the Frauscher Point Control System promote increased product diversity and grant the operator more choice in procuring components according to specific project requirements, irrespective of the manufacturer.
The Frauscher Point Control System consists of FAdP Point Control, which is a EULYNX compliant object controller designed to control, detect and monitor point machines, as well as Frauscher Connect, a dedicated connectivity manager for all Frauscher systems. Its maximum scalability results in a seamless integration into projects of any size, from small-scale installations to large, complex railway networks, ensuring safe and reliable control of single and multi-motor turnouts. The FAdP Point Control is designed with a number of key features that prioritise efficiency and adaptability in various operational environments. For instance, its compact design makes it an ideal choice for installations with spatial limitations. The DIN rail mounting further streamlines installation by offering a standardised, and space-saving system for mounting the device.
With its exceptional versatility and flexibility, this solution is designed to be compatible with a wide range of interfaces. A core component of FAdP Point Control is the PCU, which supports 4, 7, 9, or 11-wire configurations while accommodating various power supply requirements. One Point Control System can contain up to 20 Point Control Units (PCU) and thereby control 20 point machines via a single communication interface, depending on the precise configuration. Such versatility ensures the PCU aligns with a diverse set of point machine standards and interfaces employed across the globe. Furthermore, thanks to Frauscher Connect, the system adheres to the latest standards in terms of security, meaning it can be utilised in category 3 networks according to EN50159.
The Frauscher Point Control System is also equipped with advanced functionalities including condition monitoring, which is available without the need for additional or external hardware. The solution is able to track critical parameters of individual point machines, including their motor current, voltage, power, and turning time. The diagnostic and health data can be conveniently accessed through the cloud-based diagnostics platform, Frauscher Insights.
This built-in monitoring capability provides information about the operational performance and condition of point machines, enhancing maintenance planning and reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures which in turn improves service availability and reduces maintenance related costs.
The second integral part of the Point Control System comes in the form of Frauscher Connect, a versatile connectivity manager for all Frauscher systems. As a comprehensive connectivity solution, Frauscher Connect is designed to provide secure and reliable communication based on EULYNX and System Pillar standards. Frauscher Connect supports open network communication according to category 3 networks as per EN 50159, providing a secure and robust connectivity framework.
Furthermore, Frauscher Connect provides generic interfaces that are developed in accordance with the EULYNX Baseline 4 standard, including interfaces for diagnostic and maintenance purposes (SDI and SMI), and security services (SSI). In this sense, Frauscher Connect enables the secure transmission of a variety of data and information between individual Frauscher subsystems for various tasks such as train detection and point control, in line with the highest safety and security standards.
In conclusion, Frauscher’s Point Control System, with its flexible hardware and standardised, EULYNX-compliant interfaces, offers a versatile solution for modern railway signalling. By enabling seamless integration with various point machines, the solution ensures that a single system can meet diverse operational needs across different regions and project requirements. The Point Control System therefore guarantees a robust, scalable, and efficient system for managing railway operations. This level of versatility, coupled with the support for standardised interfaces, puts operators in control of their rail networks, so they can reduce costs, choose from a range of product manufacturers and avoid vendor lock-in, among many other benefits. As “Your partner for confidence” Frauscher provides the world’s most reliable field elements for highly available train detection and wayside object controlling, enabling rail operators to run their rail networks with confidence.
This article was originally published by Frauscher Sensor Technology.railway
11 March 2025Rail Business Daily
Metro Signalling Bid Handed Over To The GovernmentA business case to replace the signalling system on the Tyne and Wear Metro has been officially submitted to the Government.
The bid backed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness has been put together by Nexus, the public body which runs Metro, to make the strong case for investment in signalling.
Major investment, estimated at around £400 million, is required to replace Metro’s original signalling system, which dates from the construction of the system in the 1970s and 80s. Signalling is a safety critical asset on the Tyne and Wear Metro. Without it, the Metro cannot run.
The case was submitted to ministers at the end of last year, and it has now been reviewed by the Department for Transport (DfT) transport board and endorsed to move to the next phase of the development process.
Cathy Massarella, Managing Director of Nexus, said: “It’s absolutely vital that we replace the signalling system on Metro.
“We have submitted our Strategic Outline Business Case to demonstrate the need for replacement and that has now been reviewed by the DfT. We will now progress to the next stage of development and will remain in dialogue with the Government about this very important issue.
“Signalling is the safety-critical system which underpins the operation of our Metro system. Without signals we can’t run our trains. We’ve had the same signalling technology since the late 1970s and it needs to be replaced. We are working with analogue technology in a digital era.
“This investment is critical for Metro and critical for the whole region. A new signalling system is what we need to ensure the long-term future and sustainability of the Metro and also to pave the way for any future expansion, which is vital for growth, jobs and improved connectivity.”
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “The North East needs funding to update the Metro’s aging signalling system. As we have seen with the issues we have had in recent years with our aging fleet, rail infrastructure – such as trains, tracks and signalling – needs regular funding to safeguard the services in the longer-term and to run a reliable service for passengers.
“It is imperative we win the investment we need. Since being elected last year, I have met with Ministers on numerous occasions and have stressed the urgency of the funding required for Metro signalling as part of our ambitious plans to modernise and extend Metro to Washington.
“Nexus is underway with rolling out the new trains, and this is the next major investment our region needs to continue to improve the service for all passengers.”
The final cost of new signalling across Metro’s network of 60 stations will be determined as Nexus completes its final business case.
The current signalling system, a traditional arrangement involving mechanical relays and track circuits, was introduced with the Metro in 1980 with a 40-year design life. It has become increasingly difficult to maintain. The Nexus team has managed to extend the designed life of the signalling system through regular maintenance and repairs. However, parts and skills to keep this aging system operational are increasingly hard to come by and it is now having a significant impact on service provision. Currently, up to 62% of all infrastructure related delays are due to signalling asset failures and this will only increase.
Since 2010, Nexus has managed to secure the future of the Metro through the investment of £1 billion in a fleet of new trains, major renewals to the track, bridges, overhead line and other supporting systems. The renewal of the signalling system will ensure the full benefits of this 14-year programme of investment is realised and secure the future of Metro for the next generation.railway
11 March 2025Rail Technology Magazine
Unlocking Economic Growth: The Railway That Quadrupled Pas...The railway, which links Corby to London using a reopened branch line off the Midland Mainline, strongly illustrates the exciting potential of East West Rail to improve prospects for people and businesses along the route, bringing more jobs, prosperity and opportunity through improved connectivity.
The line reopened to passengers in 2009 and services are operated by East Midlands Railway (EMR). It links Corby to London calling at several towns and cities including Kettering, Wellingborough, Bedford, Luton, and Luton Airport Parkway where passengers can use the DART service taking them direct to the airport terminal.
The railway proved to be so popular that Network Rail electrified the line and carried out capacity improvements, allowing the number of trains to double in 2021. This new connectivity has led to a huge boost for Corby, providing much-needed regeneration and investment opportunities as well as creating new jobs.
Local business and council leaders believe East West Rail – which Chancellor Rachel Reeves has endorsed as part of the Government’s plans for an Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor - can reap similar success.
The railway will enable quicker low-carbon ways of travelling between Oxford and Cambridge, with the increased connectivity creating more job opportunities – particularly in tech and life science industries – and provide easier access to affordable homes.
When the line first opened, services were hourly, but it’s been so popular it was upgraded and electrified a few years later, allowing a half-hourly service to then operate, which now means passenger numbers have more than quadrupled from just under 118,000 in 2009/10 to over 498,000 in 2023/24. And it's this improved connectivity which the local council believes has played a key role in regenerating the town.
Sean Rose, Head of Policy at Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Corby has transformed. We've got new businesses moving into the town, new people investing in Corby and that is what the railway can do. It can unlock levelling up that really makes a difference for businesses and the local economy.”
Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, has seen many benefits that the line has brought to Corby. He said: “It was a massive impact. If you look at what that regeneration project has delivered, the railway station, you talk about the station quarter and all the building that's going on there.
“A railway station is crucial to the economy of any town or city. Doctor Beeching, in his wisdom, removed a lot of smaller branch lines, which wasn't really a long-term vision that's held this country where it should be. So having more of these schemes in smaller towns and cities would be great.”
Naomi Green, Managing Director, England’s Economic Heartland, said: “Corby Station demonstrates the significant potential of rail to transform the places it serves – unlocking improvements to quality of life and growing economic prosperity which traditional appraisal methods sometimes fail to adequately capture.
“Likewise, East West Rail will transform our region – boosting our economy, reducing reliance on the car and removing barriers to accessing jobs and services. With the right door-to-door connectivity and seamless integration, these benefits will be felt by a wide catchment of communities and businesses. Indeed, people living in Corby, Kettering and Wellingborough will be just a short journey away from connecting into services to Cambridge, Milton Keynes, Oxford and Bedford.”
The new railway has also allowed more people to come and live and do business in the town. In fact, when the line first opened, a marketing campaign which branded Corby as ‘North Londonshire’ targeted the capital with the aim of attracting Londoners to move to Corby not just to live, but to also work and do business, providing a further boost to the local economy.
Mark Redding, Communications, Communities, Partnerships and Marketing Manager for Urban & Civic, which manages Corby’ Priors Hall Park development, said: “We have examples of people who saw those adverts going up on the tube, come up to ‘North Londonshire’ on the train, saw what we have here, loved it and moved up here. They've moved their businesses up here as well.
“We know that connectivity is a really important thing for local people when they are looking for places to buy a new home or settle down so being able to be so close to that connectivity is a real benefit for people here at Priors Hall Park.”
David Hughes, CEO, EWR Co, said: “The reopened railway line to Corby is a strong case study in the transformational power of investing in rail infrastructure to drive prosperity, more job opportunities and help regenerate towns and cities. East West Rail can emulate this by delivering similar benefits to places like Bicester, Bedford and Milton Keynes, whilst also providing vital connectivity for the science and business communities in both Oxford and Cambridge.”
Image credit: iStock
Video credit: East West
Share this articlerailway
11 March 2025RAILWAY INTERNATIONAL
Italferr Advances Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Railway With Tunnel Breakthroughs In UttarakhandAsk For More Information…railway
11 March 2025RAILWAY INTERNATIONAL
Colas Rail Acquires Saferail, Expert In Railway SignallingThis transaction was completed on February 28, 2025.
With over 100 employees in six sites at Nantes, Les Ulis, Saint-Denis, Toulouse, Lille and Lyon, SafeRail provides its customers with engineering, design, verification, testing and commissioning services for rail control and signalling systems. SafeRail's ability to innovate and integrate systems in complex environments, and its unwavering commitment to safety, have established its reputation in France.
The acquisition of SafeRail is in line with Colas Rail's development strategy, which aims to increase its capacities and expertise by consolidating its presence in the rail signalling market.
"This acquisition strengthens our position in the French rail signalling market and will enable us to expand our portfolio of services while responding even more effectively to our customers" needs, comments Hervé Le Joliff, Chairman of Colas Rail.
www.colasrail.com
Ask For More Information…railway
11 March 2025Rail Business Daily
Class 175 Trains To Help Great Western Railway Improve Reliability Across The NetworkGreat Western Railway (GWR) will welcome 26 Class 175 trains to its fleet to help improve punctuality and reliability for customers, replacing older diesel trains that are more expensive and less environmentally friendly to run.
The move marks the first stage of the train operator’s plans to rejuvenate its regional and suburban services while preparing the way for decarbonisation.
The 10 two-car trains and 16 three-car trains are expected to start to enter service in Devon and Cornwall later this year, with the entire fleet expected to be operational from the end of next year.
Able to be connected in four, five and six-car formations, the trains will operate predominantly on the line between Exeter St Davids and Penzance, as well as to Barnstaple and Okehampton.
The Class 175s will release trains to improve performance in other areas of the network.
This boost to the fleet will lead to the removal of some of its oldest and least efficient diesel trains, which have become more expensive to maintain as spare parts become more difficult to find on the open market.
GWR Managing Director, Mark Hopwood, said: “The benefits of these trains will be felt by customers across the whole of the GWR network. With more trains we will have more scope to increase resilience where it is needed most, delivering the reliability our communities deserve and need.
“They are a fantastic addition to our fleet and will provide a welcome boost as we seek to rejuvenate our regional and suburban services.
“We’d like to thank our industry partners, and the Department for Transport, for helping us get to this point and we look forward to welcoming the trains into service later this year.”
Chair of the Peninsula Rail Taskforce, Councillor Andrea Davis, said: “Rail services are a big part of our climate change and economic development offer, and we have been campaigning for extra rolling stock for some time.
“It is also great to hear that the additional trains will mean improvements to services elsewhere across the GWR network, but I am especially delighted with the news for Devon and Cornwall.”
In the run-up to service launch, GWR will undertake a comprehensive programme of training for staff, as well as preparing Laira depot, where the trains will be maintained.railway
11 March 2025GRR
Railchap Robot Showcased In Oslo, Revolutionising Railway Safety And Reducing Maintenance RisksPosted: 11 March 2025 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet
Global Railway Review’s Editor, Elizabeth Jordan, witnessed a demonstration of the Railchap robot at a February 2025 event hosted by Siemens in Oslo, Norway.
Railchap demonstration, Oslo, Norway.
Railchap, by Railway Robotics, is a lightweight robot designed to travel on railways, reducing the need for human presence in hazardous areas and cutting the costs of inspection and light maintenance. Worker safety is always a top priority in railway maintenance, and the industry is increasingly investing in solutions that enhance safety. Currently, inspections are often carried out manually or using special-purpose rail-maintenance trains, exposing workers to risks. Railchap keeps “Boots Off Ballast,” ensuring safer operations for all involved.
Global Railway Review’s Editor, Elizabeth Jordan, had the chance to see a demonstration of the Railchap at a showcasing event hosted in Oslo, Norway, by Simmons at the end of February 2025.
Have a look down below:
Automatic Train Operation/Autonomous Train Control (ATO/ATC), Digital Twins, Digitalisation, Infrastructure Developments, Operational Performance, Passenger Experience/Satisfaction, Safety, Technology & Software, The Workforce, Track/Infrastructure Maintenance & Engineering
Railway Robotics, Simmons
Norway
Elizabeth Jordanrailway
11 March 2025Rail Business Daily
Metro Accelerating Change For International Women’S DayIn celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, West Midlands Metro has hosted a special event to honour the contributions of female colleagues, acknowledging their crucial role within the business and the wider community.
The event focussed on exploring ways to create more opportunities for women within the organisation and the communities it serves, in line with this year’s IWD theme, #Accelerate Change.
Sophie Allison, Managing Director of Metro and the organisation’s first female leader expressed her pride in the tram network’s commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity.
“Transport has traditionally been a male-dominated sector, but this has transformed in recent years with a significant number of women establishing themselves in a variety of roles, as tram drivers and light rail engineers to senior managers, as well as key customer-facing positions,”
“We can’t afford to be complacent. It’s essential that we continuously explore ways to encourage more women to take advantage of the rewarding career opportunities available in Metro and the wider light rail sector.”
The event took place at the Wednesbury depot today (March 10) on the Monday following International Women’s Day which was on Saturday, March 8. It featured motivational presentations from notable guests, including Dal Kalirai, Chief Executive of Women in Transport, and Katie Newell from Black Country Women’s Aid, which was recently selected by the Metro team as its charity of the year.
“This special event proved inspirational for the women who already contribute so much to Metro’s success and, at the same time, explored ideas on removing the barriers that women can face at work and across society in general,” said Sophie.railway
11 March 2025Rail Technology Magazine
Metro'S Lifeline: The £400 Million Upgrade That Can'T WaitThe bid backed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness has been put together by Nexus, the public body which runs Metro, to make the strong case for investment in signalling.
Major investment, estimated at around £400 million, is required to replace Metro’s original signalling system, which dates from the construction of the system in the 1970s and 80s. Signalling is a safety critical asset on the Tyne and Wear Metro. Without it, the Metro cannot run.
The case was submitted to ministers at the end of last year, and it has now been reviewed by the Department for Transport (DfT) transport board and endorsed to move to the next phase of the development process.
Cathy Massarella, Managing Director of Nexus, said:
“It’s absolutely vital that we replace the signalling system on Metro.”
“We have submitted our Strategic Outline Business Case to demonstrate the need for replacement and that has now been reviewed by the DfT. We will now progress to the next stage of development and will remain in dialogue with the Government about this very important issue.
“Signalling is the safety-critical system which underpins the operation of our Metro system. Without signals we can’t run our trains. We’ve had the same signalling technology since the late 1970s and it needs to be replaced. We are working with analogue technology in a digital era.
“This investment is critical for Metro and critical for the whole region. A new signalling system is what we need to ensure the long-term future and sustainability of the Metro and also to pave the way for any future expansion, which is vital for growth, jobs and improved connectivity.”
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “The North East needs funding to update the Metro’s aging signalling system. As we have seen with the issues we have had in recent years with our aging fleet, rail infrastructure – such as trains, tracks and signalling – needs regular funding to safeguard the services in the longer-term and to run a reliable service for passengers.
“It is imperative we win the investment we need. Since being elected last year, I have met with Ministers on numerous occasions and have stressed the urgency of the funding required for Metro signalling as part of our ambitious plans to modernise and extend Metro to Washington.
“Nexus is underway with rolling out the new trains, and this is the next major investment our region needs to continue to improve the service for all passengers.”
The final cost of new signalling across Metro’s network of 60 stations will be determined as Nexus completes its final business case.
The current signalling system, a traditional arrangement involving mechanical relays and track circuits, was introduced with the Metro in 1980 with a 40-year design life. It has become increasingly difficult to maintain. The Nexus team has managed to extend the designed life of the signalling system through regular maintenance and repairs. However, parts and skills to keep this aging system operational are increasingly hard to come by and it is now having a significant impact on service provision. Currently, up to 62% of all infrastructure related delays are due to signalling asset failures and this will only increase.
Since 2010, Nexus has managed to secure the future of the Metro through the investment of £1 billion in a fleet of new trains, major renewals to the track, bridges, overhead line and other supporting systems. The renewal of the signalling system will ensure the full benefits of this 14-year programme of investment is realised and secure the future of Metro for the next generation.
Image credit: Nexus
Share this articlerailway
11 March 2025Rail Business Daily
Railway Benefit Fund Announce Free Wills Month InitiativeThis March, Railway Benefit Fund (RBF), with the generous support of Railpen, is offering its free will writing service during Free Wills Month.
RBF is championing the importance of this initiative, urging individuals to take control of their legacy and prevent unnecessary stress for their loved ones. Having a legally valid will ensures that an individual’s estate is distributed according to their wishes, offering peace of mind that their family and cherished causes are supported.
“Writing a will is more than just a legal task—it’s a powerful step in protecting your family’s future” said Jo Kaye, CEO of RBF. “Free Wills Month provides an invaluable and crucial opportunity to take this important step, ensuring that your final wishes are respected, and your loved ones are cared for.”
Railway Benefit Fund encourages individuals to seize this limited-time opportunity and plan ahead today – https://www.railwaybenefitfund.org.uk/support-services/make-a-free-will/
You are under no obligation to include RBF in your will. However, once you have provided for those closest to you, RBF hopes you will consider helping them. A gift in your will, such as a donation or a percentage of your estate, ensures they can continue to support railway people facing hardships.railway
10 March 2025