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Cutting-Edge 3D Tech Is Transforming Southeastern Platform...
Rail Technology Magazine
Cutting-Edge 3D Tech Is Transforming Southeastern Platform...Cordel has equipped two Network Rail maintenance units with advanced sensor technology, utilising Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and AI-processing services to create 3D models and obtain highly accurate measurements of all Southeastern metro station platforms. Given that train station platforms across the country have been constructed and modified over many decades, their height, shape, and curvature vary significantly. This comprehensive analysis will provide detailed 3D modeling and dimensions of all the platforms that Southeastern’s potential new trains will serve. This information will be instrumental in supporting manufacturers' design work to enhance unassisted boarding across the Southeastern Metro network. This initiative is a crucial part of Southeastern’s commitment to significantly improving capacity and accessibility by introducing new or upgraded trains on the Metro network. The goal is to make boarding and alighting simpler and easier for customers in wheelchairs, those with mobility challenges, luggage, pushchairs, or any other obstacles, thereby fostering a more inclusive and accessible railway. The LiDAR sensors have been installed on a pair of Network Rail maintenance trains, which will continuously collect data as they traverse the Southeastern network. This data will be analysed by Cordel and shared with Southeastern. Mark Johnson, Engineering Director at Southeastern Railway, said: “We want our upgraded Metro fleet to be a gamechanger for customers, not only in terms of performance and operating costs but also a major step forward for accessibility, too. “However, we also know simply getting new trains won’t fix the historic issues we face across our railway. “Our joint work with Network Rail and Cordel will, for the first time, provide highly accurate, 3D measurements of our platforms, including their height, curvature and gaps from trains. This information will be absolutely invaluable for manufacturers and suppliers to provide the best possible training for the Southeastern network. “Work is already underway on our network and we look forward to the first data arriving in the coming weeks. “ Bob Coulson, Kent Route Infrastructure Director at Network Rail, said: “Our partnership with Cordel.ai represents an important step towards creating a more accessible railway. "By installing this new technology on our existing maintenance units we can build a truly accurate picture of our network across the Kent route, giving train manufacturers and suppliers the data they need to support our vision for a better, more reliable and sustainable railway”. Image credit: Southeastern Share this article
railway
Jan 14, 2025
Ashford Leaders Demand Eurostar Services Return
Rail Technology Magazine
Ashford Leaders Demand Eurostar Services ReturnIts opening came after an 18-month, £80million construction project, which had started in June 1994, to transform the town's station into 'Ashford International'. Two new platforms were built for domestic trains to replace those used by Eurostar. 29 years on the group behind the ‘Bring Back Eurostar Campaign’ want to see them return, in time for its 30th anniversary. The group, which comprises key voices from the public and private sector, including Ashford Borough Council, Kent County Council, Kent and Medway Economic Partnership, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Locate in Kent and Visit Kent, have been campaigning since they stopped in 2020, which Eurostar originally blamed on a combination of financial concerns and post-Brexit red tape. Cllr Noel Ovenden, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: “On the 29th anniversary of Eurostar services arriving in Ashford, we are demanding their return as we begin the count down to 30 years. We will not give up. Our fight continues, and we are making a strong case to both Eurostar and the Government. “Ashford has a station that is perfectly equipped to serve international rail passengers, with decades of significant investment in infrastructure. There is a clear and growing demand from residents and businesses across the south-east region” “Services at Ashford International Station are vital—not only for local businesses and travellers but also for securing future commercial investments, supporting the wider tourism industry, and driving economic growth throughout the south-east. It’s time for these services to be restored”. Image credit: iStock Share this article
railway
Jan 13, 2025
Hs2 Unveils Seventh Innovation Accelerator Cohort To Enhan...
Rail Technology Magazine
Hs2 Unveils Seventh Innovation Accelerator Cohort To Enhan...The company delivering HS2 today announced the cohort taking part in its seventh Innovation Accelerator programme to develop new railway technology to help build the line and underpin future train service reliability. As the programme to deliver HS2 begins to pivot towards rail systems installations, so its Innovation programme is looking to harness the latest technology and ideas from outside the industry to support the reliability and robustness of the operational railway. Working in partnership with Connected Places Catapult and the Department for Transport, HS2 Ltd has chosen six technology-focused UK-based companies to develop fresh ideas to meet the Accelerator’s three challenges of automating asset management, maximising site productivity, and future-proofing operations. During their 20 weeks on the Innovation Accelerator programme the six firms – all classed as small and medium-sized enterprises – will work with HS2 and its partners to refine each of their ideas. Afterwards they will showcase their innovations to the industry players and hopefully generate more business with their developed technological solutions. HS2 Ltd’s senior innovation manager, Jon Kelly said: “This new Accelerator programme, with its rail systems operations and maintenance focus, underlines how HS2’s delivery is progressing as we’re now looking for innovations in how the railway operates and is maintained." “As with the previous six Innovation Accelerators, products and solutions successfully developed under this new scheme to drive efficiencies and smarter working can streamline delivery of HS2 as well as future rail investment and construction programmes.” Connected Places Catapult’s Ecosystem Director for Rail and Stations, Dr Alan Peters said: “I’m delighted to see the innovative solutions coming forward through the HS2 Accelerator. This programme is supporting small businesses to develop solutions that will enhance asset management, safeguard critical systems, and boost on-site efficiency. These advancements are vital for ensuring safer, more efficient operations that can meet the demands of tomorrow’s rail network.” The SMEs joining the seventh iteration of HS2’s Innovation Accelerator include: Archangel Imaging’s AI-equipped security camera technology is already used in the defence sector, and the company will now use its time on the Accelerator programme to refine its product to monitor security across HS2’s vast estate stretching 140miles between London and the West Midlands. Complete Cyber will develop its product to bolster the security technology of the digital signalling that will operate HS2 and is also being introduced across the conventional rail network. Machines for Construction’s robotic technology will be further developed to perform repetitive tasks such as installation of the overhead electric cables that will power the trains. Crucially, through a process of ‘practice makes perfect’ it will learn on the job to do tasks with increasing efficiency. Mind Foundry will seek to harness its AI-enabled technology to aid HS2 infrastructure engineers to monitor the condition of the line’s structures and equipment for performance changes. This will underpin the railway’s reliability by enabling a ‘predict and prevent’ approach to renewals and replacements. PRAM’s versatile radar technology will be refined to help monitor and manage the condition of railway assets such as viaducts and embankment cuttings. Its real-time, data-driven intelligence has the potential to play an important role in supporting HS2’s reliability by assuring its civil structures – especially in light of more extreme rainfall and drought. StirlingX’s uncrewed aerial systems have the potential to inspect and monitor infrastructure and assets to identify risks and hazards – particularly in the conventional railway that was largely built in the 19th century. The seventh Accelerator will run until May 2025 after which the firms’ solutions will be showcased to industry investors and HS2's supply chain, consisting of thousands of companies ranging from the largest international engineers to specialist suppliers to the project.   Since its launch in September 2020, the HS2 Innovation Accelerator has supported 37 small businesses through the earlier six cohorts, that have collectively secured 29 pilot projects across HS2. These businesses have raised over £220million in investment and funding, and more than doubled their headcount since participating – creating over 430 new jobs in the UK. As construction continues at pace between the West Midlands and London, HS2 now supports more than 31,000 jobs. When complete, Britain’s new high-speed railway will create quicker and more reliable journeys, driving economic growth while crucially freeing up space for more local trains on the most congested part of the existing West Coast Main Line. Image credit: HS2 Share this article
railway
Jan 13, 2025
Why Do Major Rail Projects Go Over Budget?
Rail Technology Magazine
Why Do Major Rail Projects Go Over Budget?The cross-party Committee will ask witnesses, including NIC Chair Sir John Armitt, why infrastructure projects such as HS2 go over budget, how the Department for Transport can manage them more successfully, and the Government’s ability to learn from mistakes or from positive examples in other countries.  The session comes after years of changes to the number of projects commissioned by Network Rail, National Highways, and DfT, in response to delays, cost pressures and changes in political leadership.  MPs may ask how the NIC assesses what transport infrastructure the country will need in the future, and how the Government should strategise more effectively to deliver projects that enable economic growth, better connectivity between regions and reduced carbon emissions.  The Committee will be interested to hear how the planning regime can be simplified and improved in a way that reduces costs and delays, promotes development and encourages investment. There may be questions about what can be learnt from other countries, such as Germany’s use of ‘programmatic pipelines’ for rail electrification schemes.  The NIC is an executive agency of the Treasury tasked with carrying out in-depth studies into the UK’s major infrastructure needs and makes recommendations to the Government. This includes a National Infrastructure Assessment every Parliament, setting out the Commission’s assessment of long-term infrastructure needs, with recommendations to government. It also publishes an annual monitoring report to take stock of government's progress in areas where it has committed to taking forward the NIC's recommendations.  The session is due to take place on Wednesday morning in the House of Commons Image credit: iStock Share this article
railway
Jan 13, 2025
£60M Investment For West Coast Main Line  Bridge Replaceme...
Rail Technology Magazine
£60M Investment For West Coast Main Line Bridge Replaceme...The 71-year-old bridge, which carries trains over the M6 between the North of England and Scotland, has reached the end of its service life. Currently, only one train can cross at a time, causing delays for both passengers and freight. To ensure the work is carried out safely, there will be road and rail closures in January 2026. The project involves dismantling the old bridge and transporting it away via the M6. New bridge materials will be delivered by road and assembled on-site. This week, the team began setting up a compound for the project. National Highways is collaborating with Network Rail to construct an access road to the site. From January 2025 until the project's completion in 2026, traffic management measures will be in place on the M6, starting about three miles south of Junction 40. This essential work will secure safe and reliable journeys for passengers and freight over this crucial 135-metre-long structure for many years to come. Image credit: Network Rail Share this article
railway
Jan 10, 2025
Siemens Mobility Secures Contracts Worth € 670 Million Wit...
Rail Technology Magazine
Siemens Mobility Secures Contracts Worth € 670 Million Wit...For the first time, Siemens Mobility will implement wayside Automatic Train Operations [ATO] over the European Train Control System [ETCS] Level 2 on a high-speed network, enabling semi-automatic train operations (Grade of Automation 2) for improved capacity, punctuality and energy efficiency. Another contract focuses on an Engineering Management System that will enable real-time control and monitoring of railway equipment, ultimately enhancing reliability and efficiency. Siemens Mobility also formed a joint venture with Costain Ltd to deliver high voltage power supply systems along the HS2 route. Finally, Siemens Mobility will take charge of implementing Operational Telecommunications and Security Systems for the entire HS2 route. All awarded contracts are expected to commence in 2025 with a total order value of approximately 670 million Euros, including long-term maintenance agreement, and potentially including additional options.  “HS2 is set to transform rail travel by offering faster and more reliable passenger journeys and freeing up freight paths in the UK. We are very proud to provide our wayside ATO over ETCS solution, enabling semi-automated train operations for improved capacity, punctuality, and energy efficiency on high-speed travel for the first time. Furthermore, we will deliver cutting-edge electrification technology and maintenance support for this groundbreaking project," said Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility.  “HS2 will play a vital role in connecting the UK’s two largest cities and driving growth and sustainability nationwide.” “With our 5,500 UK employees, Siemens Mobility is fully committed to delivering advanced transportation solutions designed and built in Britain.” Command, Control, Signaling & Traffic Management [CCS&TM] Siemens Mobility will design, manufacture, supply, install, supervise, inspect, safety authorize, test, commission and maintain a state-of-the-art European Train Control System [ETCS] Level 2 signalling system and traffic management solution with wayside Automatic Train Operation at GoA2. Building on Siemens Mobility's successful signaling technology implemented in projects like Thameslink and the East Coast Digital Programme, this solution will eliminate the need for traditional signals along the tracks by providing digital signalling that feeds information directly to the train driver via a screen in their cab. This will improve operations and substantially simplify maintenance compared to conventional train control systems. Siemens Mobility will provide technical support services for the system for at least 15 years. Engineering Management System Siemens Mobility will design, manufacture, supply, install, integrate, test, commission and maintain an integrated Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition [SCADA] system that will enable real-time control and monitoring of railway equipment, ultimately enhancing reliability and efficiency, utilizing the companys technology and provision of maintenance and technical support. Siemens Mobility will leverage its 50 years of experience in delivering advanced SCADA systems from projects such as the Elizabeth line in London. Siemens Mobility will provide technical support services for the system for at least 15 years.   High voltage [HV] power supply systems A Siemens Mobility and Costain joint venture will design, manufacture, supply, install, test, commission and maintain a high voltage power supply systems for the HS2 high-speed rail project. As part of the construction of HS2, traction and non-traction sub-stations will be built alongside the railway line. These sub-stations will play a critical role in facilitating the delivery of power from the National Grid to high-speed trains and other railway systems, ensuring their efficient and reliable operation. Siemens Mobility and Costain will provide maintenance services for the system for at least seven years.  Operational Telecommunications and Security Systems Siemens Mobility will design, manufacture, supply, install, safety authorize, test, commission, and maintain an Operational Telecommunications and Security System along the HS2 route. This will provide Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway [GSM-R] secure, digital, wireless communications between drivers along the route. Passive provision will be made for an upgrade to the Future Railway Mobile Communication System [FRMCS]. The company will provide technical support services for the system for at least eight years. HS2: Set to transform rail travel in Britain HS2, the new high-speed railway currently being constructed, is set to transform Britain’s transportation landscape. Spanning 225 kilometres, the line will connect London to Birmingham with a spur to Handsacre, connecting HS2 trains to other UK cities in the North West and beyond. As Britain's second purpose-built high-speed railway, HS2 follows in the footsteps of High Speed 1, which links London to the Channel Tunnel. HS2 will deliver faster and more efficient journeys, opening new possibilities for both business and leisure travel throughout the nation. Image credit: iStock Share this article
railway
Jan 10, 2025
Full Launch Of Moscow Metro Line 16: A New Era Of Connecti...
Rail Technology Magazine
Full Launch Of Moscow Metro Line 16: A New Era Of Connecti...Phased Opening and New Stations Line 16 was inaugurated in two phases. The first phase saw the opening of four stations in September, and today marks the completion of the second phase with the addition of Kornilovskaya, Kommunarka, and Novomoskovskaya stations. In total, seven new stations are now operational, significantly improving transport accessibility for the surrounding communities. Key Highlights Length & Connectivity: The new segment adds 15.5 kilometers of track, providing crucial transfers to the Big Circle Line (BCL) and Line 1. This expansion not only enhances the metro network but also offers more convenient travel options for daily commuters. Time Savings: One of the most notable benefits is the reduction in travel time. For example, the journey from Kornilovskaya to Novatorskaya, with a transfer to the BCL, now takes just 12 minutes, compared to the previous 30 minutes. This improvement will undoubtedly make daily commutes more efficient and less stressful. Cutting-Edge Trains: Line 16 exclusively features the modern, domestically produced Moskva-2024 trains. These state-of-the-art trains ensure a comfortable and reliable travel experience, reflecting the latest advancements in metro technology. Traffic Relief: The new line is expected to alleviate congestion on the southern sections of Lines 1 and 6, as well as reduce pressure on adjacent road networks. Traffic on Lines 1 and 6 is projected to decrease by 8%, while adjacent roads will see a 5% drop in congestion. This will contribute to a smoother and more efficient transportation system overall. Regional Development: Line 16 is poised to become a catalyst for growth in nearby districts. With over 1.5 million people currently living in its catchment area, and ongoing real estate development, the number of residents is expected to rise. The metro line will also drive the creation of tens of thousands of new jobs, fostering economic growth and development in the region. Future Transport Links Looking ahead, plans are already underway to introduce new surface transit routes, further enhancing access to the stations. Once fully extended, the Troitskaya Line will connect the ZIL station of the Moscow Central Circle (MCC) with the city of Troitsk, transforming the region’s transportation landscape and providing even greater connectivity for residents. The full launch of Line 16 marks a significant step forward for the Moscow Metro, promising to deliver substantial benefits in terms of connectivity, convenience, and regional development. As the city continues to grow and evolve, this new metro line will play a crucial role in shaping its future. Photo credits: Moscow Metro Share this article
railway
Jan 10, 2025
Hs2'S 14,500-Tonne Box Structure Advances
Rail Technology Magazine
Hs2'S 14,500-Tonne Box Structure AdvancesThese concrete beams, ranging from 13 to 24 meters in length, were meticulously lifted into place by three giant cranes, forming a crucial part of the structure's top. A dedicated team of engineers worked tirelessly around the clock, completing the entire operation ahead of schedule in just 14 days. Scheduled for completion later this year, the colossal box is being constructed on land adjacent to a section of the A46, rather than beneath the carriageway itself. This approach avoids the need for up to two years of traffic management measures. With the beams now in place, the next steps include finishing the deck—the flat surface on top of the beams—and installing parapets. In the spring, the completed structure will be moved into position under the existing carriageway using an innovative technique. This technique involves a jacking mechanism, designed by the specialist civil and structural engineering company Freyssinet, which will push the box across on a guiding raft at a speed of up to 2.5 meters per hour, covering a total distance of 64 meters. Together with National Highways and its construction partner for the West Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), HS2 has begun preparations for the box push procedure. A section of the A46 between Festival Island (Coventry) and Thickthorn Island (Kenilworth) will be closed for two weekends next month for the initial stage of preparation work. The plan is to move the structure into position during a full closure of the A46 Kenilworth Bypass in the spring of 2025, which is expected to last up to three weeks. Photos & Video credit: HS2 Share this article
railway
Jan 09, 2025
Atkinsréalis Makes Key Appointments
Rail Technology Magazine
Atkinsréalis Makes Key AppointmentsEmma Porter has been appointed as Practice Director for Transport Advisory & Consultancy and Alejandro Moreno as Market Director for Rail & Transit. Both are highly experienced professionals who bring decades of experience to AtkinsRéalis which is playing a key role in driving economic growth through better transport connections across the country. Colette Carroll OBE, AtkinsRéalis Managing Director – Transportation UK & Ireland, said: “I’m truly pleased to welcome Emma and Alejandro to our Transportation team. Their proven track records in delivering complex infrastructure will enhance our capabilities across rail and advisory services, helping us to address the evolving needs of our clients. “As we enter 2025 and mark 200 years of the railway, this is a pivotal time for rail and the wider transportation industry. Emma and Alejandro will be instrumental in advancing both our rail expertise and our transportation business as we continue to deliver critical infrastructure that connects communities and drives growth across the UK and Ireland.” Emma will lead a team of experienced transportation consultants providing specialised advice to a range of clients including Network Rail, rolling stock companies, National Highways, and local authorities. She has 18 years’ experience across the built environment and was most recently a Managing Director at engineering firm Story Contracting. She is also a Director & Founder of The Rebuild Site, a social enterprise which reduces waste in the construction sector and served as a panel member of the independent Rail and Urban Transport Review. Emma has a Master of Business Administration from INSEAD Business School and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Leeds. Alejandro brings 22 years’ experience in the European rail sector to lead AtkinsRéalis’ rail division across high speed, conventional, very light rail and metro. He joins AtkinsRéalis from Colas Rail, where he held a variety of roles for more than a decade, including Managing Director and Innovation/Digital Transformation lead, as well as Alliance Director for the transformative £1 billion Midland Metro Alliance. Alejandro has a Master of Business Administration from ESIC University and a Mechanical Engineering Master’s degree from the Polytechnic University of Zaragoza. AtkinsRéalis’ work in the transportation industry spans major rail projects such as HS2, East Coast Digital Programme and East West Rail, through to significant highways programmes, including the M25 junction 10 upgrade, and aviation and maritime projects. The company delivers end-to-end solutions across the transport ecosystem, from strategic consultancy services to complex engineering and digital transformation projects. Its Transportation division employs around 2,900 people. Image credit: AtkinsRealis and iStock Share this article
railway
Jan 09, 2025
Southeastern'S Class 376 Trains Are Getting Transformed
Rail Technology Magazine
Southeastern'S Class 376 Trains Are Getting TransformedThe refurbishment work has begun at the Ashford Maintenance Centre, with the first trains featuring a new blue livery and LED lighting expected to enter service in the spring. Later in the summer, the interior upgrades, including refurbished seats and a complete repaint, will commence at the Grove Park depot. The first of these refreshed units is anticipated to be in service by the end of the year. Mark Johnson, Engineering Director at Southeastern, said: “I’m thrilled that we will be upgrading the Class 376s with our partners at Alstom and Eversholt Rail. The mid-life refresh will deliver better journeys for our customers and keep these trains in tip-top condition for years to come. “This builds on the upgrades across our other fleets, and the newer trains we are bringing in, as well as the ongoing procurement of new trains to replace our older Networkers. “It all adds up to great news for our passengers across South East London, East Sussex and Kent.” Peter Broadley, Commercial Director UK and Ireland at Alstom, said: “We are proud to partner with Southeastern and Eversholt Rail on this transformative mid-life upgrade for the Class 376 fleet. By delivering a refreshed, modernised fleet with enhanced passenger amenities and operational efficiency, we’re ensuring these Derby-built trains continue to provide reliable and comfortable journeys for Southeastern’s customers. “This project is a testament to Alstom’s commitment to innovation and excellence in supporting our operators and improving passenger experience across the UK rail network.” Paul Sutherland, Client Services Director at Eversholt Rail, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Southeastern and Alstom to deliver this refurbishment programme to upgrade our Class 376 fleet.  “This refurbishment follows on from the recent investment on both our Class 375 and Class 395 fleets, underlining our commitment to enhancing the passenger experience for Southeastern’s customers”. Photo credit: Southeastern Share this article
railway
Jan 09, 2025
Network Rail Engineers Complete Critical Upgrades On Wesse...
Rail Technology Magazine
Network Rail Engineers Complete Critical Upgrades On Wesse...Surrey – South West Main Line upgrades In the Woking area, engineers completed a two-week programme of upgrades on the South West Main Line at Brookwood, between Farnborough and Woking, including: Engineers also carried out work to strengthen embankments in the area, reducing the chance of landslips while maintenance teams will be carrying out tamping – the compacting of the stones that support the tracks – between Hook and Farnborough. Lymington Branch Line upgrades Further south in Dorset, a two-week closure of the line between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier enabled engineers to complete vital improvements to the branch line. Following the installation of new track on the line in late October, the bridge across the Lymington River between Lymington Town and Pier stations has been strengthened. Engineers also refurbished and repaired heavily corroded critical steel elements of Lymington Viaduct, carried out from pontoons and underslung scaffold. The wheel timbers, which support the track across the viaduct, have also been replaced. During this time, the track that runs across Lymington Town Level Crossing was replaced while improvement works at Brockenhurst Level Crossing were completed as well as tamping – the compacting of ballast (the stones that support the track) - across the junctions at Brockenhurst station. Mark Goodall, Network Rail’s Wessex route director, said:  “The work our teams have completed over the past couple of weeks is critical for the continued safe and reliable running of the railway and I’d like to pay tribute to the many men and women who have worked so tirelessly and forgone spending festive time with family and friends to complete this work. “We’re committed to running a high-performing, reliable and punctual railway and I’m delighted to welcome passengers back to an improved railway in 2025.” Image credit: Network Rail Share this article
railway
Jan 08, 2025
Government'S Bold New Vision For Railways
Rail Technology Magazine
Government'S Bold New Vision For RailwaysThese expectations will be considered by the ORR when making access decisions regarding new open access applications. In the letter Heidi Alexander said “I wanted to take this opportunity to write to you to confirm my policy position regarding Open Access.“ “Whilst this letter does not replace the formal guidance currently in place and holds no formal legal standing, I hope it will be helpful to the ORR by setting out my expectations for how the Government’s vision for Open Access operates alongside a publicly owned railway.  “I also intend to consider amendments to my Secretary of State guidance. This will build upon the policy position set out in this letter, as well as wider consideration of how a reformed sector - as it moves towards a single directing mind and public ownership - provides better value for passengers and taxpayers. “I recognise the benefits that can be provided by Open Access operators in the right circumstances and that both existing and new Open Access operators can open up new markets, drive innovation and offer choice to passengers. “However, there is a balance to be struck to ensure the benefits provided by Open Access operators outweigh the impacts they have on taxpayers and the ability to operate the network efficiently. We need to be mindful of the impacts of Open Access such as the level of revenue they can abstract from contracted services and the associated implications for passengers and taxpayers. I am also aware of the additional pressures new services can create on already constrained network capacity and their impact on the value secured from public investment in infrastructure. While Open Access operators pay variable access charges to Network Rail to cover the direct costs incurred running their trains on the network, unlike governmentcontracted operators they do not fully cover the costs of fixed track access charges towards long-term maintenance of the network and central support costs. Currently only one Open Access operator contributes towards fixed costs via an Infrastructure Cost Charge, and taxpayers are left to fill shortfalls. “I want to ensure appropriate balance between these elements, and my priority is to see the network move to a financially sustainable model which maximises benefits and value for passengers and taxpayers while delivering improved performance as we move towards public ownership. As such I would like to make clear my expectation that you give due consideration to the priorities I set out in this letter whilst respecting your statutory duties. I wish to see the impacts on the taxpayer and on overall performance for passengers – such as potential congestion on the network – given primacy when considering open access applications.  “I look forward to meeting you and working together to improve the railways for customers and taxpayers. My officials will reflect the position set out above in responses to the applications that you are currently considering and remain ready to work with you.” Image credit: iStock Share this article
railway
Jan 08, 2025