John Doughty
A £1 billion investment into the UK rail network
Bethan Mack and Steven Byrne
EMR’s year of transformation
Mark Swindell and Mike Kean
“An opportunity for a real revolution”
Rolling Stock Networking
A look ahead to what visitors can expect
A time of great opportunity
Workforce protection barriers with proven ALO, avoiding all line closures and costly programme delays with adjacent line open
Workforce protection barriers with proven ALO, avoiding all line closures and costly programme delays with adjacent line open
workforce
Secure your workforce with trackside refuges built from with Retainer-Rock®, Legato® , Duo™ or Vee-Rock™ retaining walls and interlocking blocks
Ensure rail transport networks remain operational with embankment retention, using a choice of versatile interlocking blocks
Ensure rail transport networks remain operational with embankment retention, using a choice of versatile interlocking blocks
Hoarding and fencing stabilisation, with ballast or counterweights, using above ground/no dig fencing and hoarding systems
Hoarding and fencing stabilisation, with ballast or counterweights, using above ground/no dig fencing and hoarding systems Protect
Protect people, services and infrastructure with channels, troughs, cable protection covers, indicator posts and utility protection covers
Protect rail lines and stations from unwanted visitors with our bollards, Jersey-Lite™ , Jersey barriers and security block solutions
Protect rail lines and stations from unwanted visitors with our bollards, Jersey-Lite™ , Jersey barriers and security block solutions
elcome to the latest edition of Rail Director. In the recent Spending Review, Chancellor Rachel Reeves recognised that the railways are key to delivering economic growth, comments backed by support for the next phases of the Transpennine Route Upgrade, East West Rail, and Northern Powerhouse Rail, as well as new funding for the Midlands Rail Hub, for Welsh rail infrastructure, and £15 billion of funding for local transport in city regions.
As I write this, there is also positivity around rail usage, with the most recent quarterly figures published by the Office of Rail and Road and the Department for Transport (DfT) showing a seven-per-cent increase in passenger journeys made from April 2024 to March 2025, compared to the previous 12 months; with total passenger revenue also trending upward totalling £11.5 billion in the latest year, an eight-per-cent increase. Additionally, statistics from the DfT show passenger numbers for May at a record-monthly high average of 104 per cent compared with pre-pandemic levels.
There is also optimism surrounding rolling stock, which is the theme of this month’s Rail Director. Little over a year ago, Alstom’s production lines had stopped at its factory in Derby with the demobilising of manufacturing operations due to a lack of workload between the end of Alstom UK’s current orders and HS2 manufacturing. Fast-forward to the present and things are looking a lot brighter. Contract awards have included £370 million for 10 new nine-car Aventra trains for Transport for London’s Elizabeth line, and maintenance and refurbishment contracts for TransPennine Express, CrossCountry and Lumo.
Giving their first joint interview since being appointed as Alstom’s Managing Director UK and Ireland and Managing Director Rolling Stock and Components UK and Ireland, Rob Whyte and Andy Butters indicate there is a sense of positivity, although the pair are keen to stress the importance of pipeline, something they say is always high up on the agenda in the conversations they’ve had with Government senior representatives. Rob said: “We’ve been here the last 200 years, and we plan on being here the next 200, but changes will be needed, so it is important we as a country recognise the strategic value of what we do, something that is sometimes forgotten if it becomes a more political value.” You can read the full article from page 6.
Also in this month’s edition, John Doughty, Engineering Director at London Northwestern & West Midlands Railways discusses the journey of introducing new train fleets and transforming depots (page 12). From page 16 you can read more from East Midlands Railway’s Fleet Project Manager Bethan Mack and Programme Manager Steven Byrne about the £23 million programme to modernise their Class 170 fleet. Rock Rail’s Mark Swindell and Mike Kean also discuss the organisation’s biggest project to date, and the importance of buying new trains from page 42.
Thanks as always to everyone who has been involved in this month’s magazine, including Nigel Wordsworth who has written a preview of the eagerly anticipated Rolling Stock Networking 2025 event (page 38), and David Clough, who has reviewed railway activity at PD Ports’ Tees Dock facility from page 52. Next month’s magazine will be themed around health and safety, please get in touch if you’d like to feature.
All the best,
Danny Longhorn Editor
Statistics from the DfT show passenger numbers for May at a record-monthly high average of 104 per cent compared with pre-pandemic levels
Rail Director magazine and Railbusinessdaily.com are assets owned by the Railway Industry Association. Railbusinessdaily.com delivers more than 70 stories a week to +73,000 rail industry professionals in our daily 7am newsletter. If you have not already subscribed, it’s free and it’s easy to do so at www.railbusinessdaily.com, please also encourage your colleagues to do the same. This is the very best way to keep abreast of what is happening on the UK’s railways. There is a digital copy of Rail Director on our website.
With over 40 years’ experience of high quality, heavy duty vehicle lifting, Totalkare combines world class products with industry leading support to facilitate effective maintenance and repair. LIFTING JACKS & BOGIE LIFTS
Lifting and inspection equipment you can rely on for all maintenance of rail vehicles.
It’s an exciting, transformational time for Alstom. Rob Whyte, Managing Director UK and Ireland and Andy Butters, Managing Director Rolling Stock and Components UK and Ireland, reflect on their careers and discuss the journey ahead
12 A £1 billion investment into the UK rail network
John Doughty, Engineering Director at London Northwestern & West Midlands Railways, discusses the journey of introducing new train fleets and transforming depots
The first train in East Midlands Railway’s (EMR) £23 million programme to modernise the Class 170 fleet was recently unveiled. Fleet Project Manager Bethan Mack and Programme Manager Steven Byrne explain more
22 “More services. More new trains. A better railway for North Wales”
Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, discusses an ambitious vision to deliver an integrated, high-frequency public transport network for North Wales
28 Testing of the world’s first digitally signalled steam locomotive
Testing has taken place for the world’s first operational steam locomotive to be fitted with European Train Control System (ETCS) technology
A new head office for Rail Business Daily has been opened. Dean Bruce, Managing Director, describes it as a pivotal moment and a springboard for an even greater future
38 Rolling Stock Networking – an event not to be missed
It is less than a month to go before the latest Rolling Stock Networking event, an exhibition focused on passenger and freight rolling stock, technical enhancements, depot equipment, ancillary services and the railway supply chain. Nigel Wordsworth looks ahead to what visitors attending can expect
42 “An opportunity for a real revolution”
Rock Rail’s Mark Swindell and Mike Kean discuss the organisation’s biggest project to date, and the importance of buying new trains
52 Teesport triumphs through transition
David Clough reviews railway activity at PD Ports’ Tees Dock facility
58 Celebrating 150 years of Railway Industry Association (RIA)
RIA is celebrating its 150th anniversary, marking the occasion by commemorating its past and reflecting on the journey of rail, with a special networking reception and after party
64 Rail industry celebrates the Women
The eighth annual Women in Rail Awards has taken place, with 14 awards presented celebrating both individual excellence and collaborative initiatives
68 Biggest ever investment in city region local transport as Chancellor vows the ‘Renewal of Britain’
The Chancellor has said that working people in cities and towns from Sunderland to Solihull will benefit from the biggest investment in regional transport, as every part of the country prospers under Plan for Change
70 Ramblers, ravers, and the railway
Board game trains and a marriage carriage, in her latest quarterly column Daisy Chapman-Chamberlain explores how the industry can think bigger to create exhilarating journeys for all
78 “Complacency is not in our vocabulary”
In April, Marc Hurn was announced as Managing Director of VTG Rail UK, the country’s largest wagon lessor. He explains more about the role and the journey ahead
82 Inspiring array of activities celebrates Community Rail Week 2025
Bill Freeman, Interim Chief Executive of Community Rail Network, looks back on this year’s Community Rail Week
Tel: 01132 082620
Sales: 020 7062 6599
Editor Danny Longhorn danny@railbusinessdaily.com
Designer and Production Manager Debbie Nolan
Crampton
Broomfield
Advertising Team Christian Wiles chrisw@railbusinessdaily.com
Amy Hudson amy@railbusinessdaily.com
Published by Rail Business Daily c/o 16 Smith Square, Kings Buildings London, SW1P 3HQ
Printed by The Manson Group © 2025
All rights reserved.
Reproduction of the contents of this magazine in any manner whatsoever is prohibited without prior consent from the publisher. For subscription enquiries and to make sure you get your copy of Rail Director please ring 01132 082620 or email info@railbusinessdaily.com. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher and editor. The published
It’s an exciting, transformational time for Alstom. Rob Whyte, Managing Director UK and Ireland and Andy Butters, Managing Director Rolling Stock and Components UK and Ireland, reflect on their careers and discuss the journey ahead with Annabel Parker
For Andy Butters it is one of the best feelings when you go on a train that you have helped design and deliver. That was certainly the case when he recently went on a Turbostar, the fleet he began working on in Derby 17 years ago, when he was Alstom’s Project Engineering Manager.
“It still pulls on your heartstrings, knowing the train and remembering the pain of going through the delivery process of it,” he said, now Alstom’s Managing Director of Rolling Stock and Components UK and Ireland. “It was a difficult time to be involved in project delivery, particularly with issues with the exhaust system, but we got through it and what you see now is a quality product, good customer satisfaction, excellent reliability, so I get a real sense of achievement looking back on the fleets I’ve been involved in.”
Andy is one of two major changes at Alstom UK and Ireland, with Rob Whyte appointed Managing
Director, with both starting in their new roles at the start of February. He started with the global leader in smart and sustainable mobility more than 30 years ago as an apprentice in the company’s Transmission and Distribution division. He held this role in parallel with studying for an engineering degree at the University of Bath. Prior to the current role he was Managing Director in the Nordics.
“I have a couple of projects that are cemented in my memory, Nottingham Tram being one,” he reflected. “It’s being involved in the little things that the majority of people won’t understand, but when you see them you are almost fighting back the tears because it just brings back all of the emotions.
“Another memory was whilst I was an apprentice at Alstom and the company had been awarded the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement. We had a visit from the Alstom Board and were essentially tasked with opening the doors for them. They spoke
with us and an apprentice joked to me that ‘we’ve just seen God’. We were the little people in a very big organisation and I’ve now become one of those bigger people, although in my head I’ve not changed from that person that was stood at the door letting those people through.
“With my role comes a lot of responsibility, but one thing I get a real satisfaction from is seeing the new people that join our business and I can say that – quite a long time ago – I was like them and I took every opportunity that came to me and now I’m here, so they can do it as well. This company is a great place to be with excellent people doing amazing projects. At times it can be frustrating and difficult, but overall I thoroughly enjoy it; the work is technically involving and interesting, and what we do is good for the world.”
This isn’t just about what Rob and Andy have achieved in the past, but the role they have at the leading supplier of new trains and train services, and
a leading signalling and rail infrastructure provider.
Alstom has built just under 40 per cent of the UK main line train fleet, as well as all fleets currently in service with London Underground and Dublin Luas. It provides an extensive range of smart solutions in the rail market, from innovative high-speed rolling stock, metros and trams to maintenance, modernisation, infrastructure and signalling. Employing almost 6,000 people, it designs and build trains at Derby, the UK’s largest train factory; and operates major sites at Widnes, Crewe, Ilford and Plymouth, and 30 train services depots across the UK and Ireland.
Andy said: “It’s an interesting time to take over as Managing Director, coming off the back of the
Aventra contract and starting to look forward at how we reshape the business and diversify the work we do, particularly in Derby, where we are focusing on how to secure the site for the future.
“The latter is involving third party organisations, new contracts and bids we’re working towards, new products that we’re offering and especially focusing on new services that we can offer, so it is a really fascinating time to have taken on a role and be able to be part of reshaping Derby and the Alstom business in the UK. It is a transformational time.”
One example of diversifying is the news last month that Yellow Rail, a leading provider of specialist rail engineering services and part of the Buckland Rail
Derby is the only place in the UK to design, build and test rolling stock, and it should be at the centre of rolling stock manufacturing, but it can and should be much more than that
We, the industry, have allowed an overburden of risk to sit in the wrong place and we have to work our way through that to simplify the terms and conditions, which has to be part of rail reform
group, is to relocate to Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane Works.
Andy commented: “Derby is the only place in the UK to design, build and test rolling stock, and it should be at the centre of rolling stock manufacturing, but it can and should be much more than that.
“A key in achieving that is by developing partnerships with organisations like Yellow Rail, which has got similar business models and competencies to Alstom, working with them to identify new opportunities.”
Rob, who returned to the UK after eight-and-ahalf years living in Sweden, added: “There are some signs of direction in the market and with Great British Railways forming there are some good opportunities on the horizon, but I am still seeing some of the same drifting of timelines, which makes it difficult for a business to manage, particularly one that is trying to do a transformational change.
“We’ve been here the last 200 years, and we plan on being here the next 200, but changes will be needed, so it is important we as a country recognise the strategic value of what we do, something that is sometimes forgotten if it becomes a more political value. Although there is rightly a big focus on Derby, we’ve actually also got 3,500 people servicing more than 60 per cent of the UK’s trains.
“Ireland has also gone through a real renaissance thanks to a fantastic commitment from Irish Rail and the Irish Government to support investment in the rail infrastructure. This isn’t electrifying the whole of Ireland, but using battery electric trains, which we’re supplying and also doing the infrastructure charging. There is more certainty which makes it much easier for us to plan and prepare, something that is so important for the industry to thrive.”
Rob highlights how hard it is to plan a massive site like Derby if you don’t know what work is needing to be done and that the lack of pipeline means the biggest competitor is a more unusual one.
“My biggest competitors are my colleagues in other countries,” he said. “Take Italy for example, where rail reform has led to private and government investment leading to a fantastic fleet and local capability. Italy can do everything for itself and has that constant commitment and viability of infrastructure, signalling, rolling stock, modernisation and maintenance
projects, not a boom and bust like the UK has been experiencing.”
Achieving a steady workflow and ensuring the success and sustainability of the site in Derby is among Rob’s main priorities as Managing Director.
“Real diversification of the site will also give us the flexibility,” he said. “When the market recovers and we end up with some large project deliveries then we can scale up and cope because the site will be there to do it. But what we can’t have is a three-quarter empty site.” It is a challenge for Andy to make the site as efficient as possible.
“My biggest aspiration is to make Derby a sustainable business, although the pipeline of rolling stock will always be a critical element of our business,” he said. “But beyond that we need to have a vision for Derby that protects the workforce, the community and the value it delivers to the region from the inevitable boom and bust cycle that you get in rolling stock procurement.
“The partnership with Yellow Rail is an example, but beyond that it is about engineering packages, the export markets we can explore and there are lots that we can do to self-help to build a railway hub in Derby that is sustainable and competitive with European sites.”
The pair spoke to Rail Director just days after it was announced the organisation had signed a £50 million (€59 million) contract in partnership with FirstGroup and Eversholt Rail for the refresh and maintenance of five, six-car Class 222 trains. This comes ahead of open access passenger services being launched between Stirling and London under FirstGroup’s Lumo brand.
The contract comprises two key components which includes a Train Services Agreement (TSA) with FirstGroup – valued at approximately £40 million (€47.5 million) – to be delivered at Alstom’s Central Rivers facility. From here, Alstom will maintain, overhaul, service and clean the five trains over the next five years.
Rob said: “There is a lot of interest in open access and we have one – Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway – which is under consideration. These are quite interesting projects because they are quite dynamic going from nothing to a big project, a big overhaul and a life of maintenance. They
are quite exciting because they talk about it, they identify the need for the market, they execute the plan and then they deliver it. I see more and more opportunities like that coming through.
“This recent contract sits with our Services part of the business, which in the UK is the largest Alstom has in the world. This is where Alstom in the UK is resetting the model for the entire world. Because this aspect of the business takes place at various sites and involves different activities, it doesn’t get the recognition it should for putting those trains into service every day. It helps keep our business going.”
Looking to the future and there is a sense of positivity, although both Rob and Andy are keen to stress the importance of pipeline, always high up on the agenda in the conversations they’ve had with Government senior representatives.
“Long-term visibility of the rolling stock pipeline will guide us in investment particularly in helping us target our research and development efforts in our products to match the future of UK rail,” said Andy. “We are supportive of the introduction of Great British Railways (GBR) and rail reform, but it must be milestone-led so we can get clear visibility of timescales of the reform, as well as the pipeline. The industry has to work closer with the Government to both understand and influence those strategies.”
On the future, Rob told Rail Director he would have two asks for the Government.
“The first is simplification, ensuring we have a common understanding of what is required, because having dozens of different variants of every single vehicle doesn’t help anybody,” he said. “Let’s try and get as much of a standard design model as we can, something I experienced during my time in the Nordics, where they have got three fleets: commuter, regional and intercity. There are slight variants but for the actual base products, one company wins one, one wins another, etc.
“The second is around the fact the model for procuring trains in the UK and where the risk sits has got very complicated with multiple financiers, advisory groups, owners and operators. One of the fleets had 17 financial partners behind it, so every time you change something on the terms and conditions, it has to go through 17 hurdles to get approved.
“During COVID and the supply chain crisis it really impacted the industry because we took all of the risk on everything. We were having to effectively support
It is going to be unbelievable, the largest collection of rolling stock in a generation, if not ever
the entire supply chain through the process because contractually if we hadn’t done that then we don’t get paid, and then these guys will go bankrupt and then we will get pinged again.
“We, the industry, have allowed an overburden of risk to sit in the wrong place and we have to work our way through that to simplify the terms and conditions, which has to be part of rail reform. They have to be deliverable and ultimately companies like ours have to make some money at the end of the year. We are not a very profitable company. We’re not greedy, but we need to make enough money to be able to exist to carry on, to be able to invest in our engineering, to be able to invest in the future.”
The industry is going through a period of great change, but with that are opportunities, something both Rob and Andy are relishing.
“We’re on the cusp of technology shift with a lot more digitisation coming through the product but also through looking after the product as well, which is driving efficiency,” said Rob. “All of these mark a brave new world for our industry – our somewhat conservative industry – that for the last 200 years has not moved away from a steel wheel on a steel rail interface.
“We will see more and more software on the trains controlling more and more functionality so we will have much more modularity on the vehicles, again this point of standardisation, which is why it is super important to do something once, make sure it works and is reliable, and then see what can you bolt and hang off that. The overall operating system of the railway has to come down in cost and I believe digitalising will stop us wasting money as an industry.”
Andy added: “One of the most interesting things for me is the establishment of GBR. With Derby being
selected as the home of GBR is a testament to the fact that Derby should be the heart of rolling stock in the UK. The development of its headquarters combined with Rail Campus Derby, which we see ourselves leading in, and that accumulation of railway businesses around the region of Derby will be really interesting; seeing that come to fruition and making it what it should be.”
In the more immediate, as part of this year’s Railway 200 celebrations, Alstom’s historic Derby Litchurch Lane Works will be front and centre, as it hosts the largest temporary gathering of trains and rail-related exhibits in a generation – The Greatest Gathering – between Friday 1 and Sunday 3 August.
The event, which has already sold out, will feature in excess of 50 iconic vehicles from the past, present and future of the railways, and marks the first time in almost 50 years that the train factory has been open to the general public.
Andy said: “It is going to be unbelievable, the largest collection of rolling stock in a generation, if not ever. It will be a fascinating event, a showcase of UK rail from the very beginning through to the most modern. It will be a showcase of Derby and its heritage in rail, and an opportunity for people to be excited about what we do.
“The railway is something that people are passionate about. Some of the things we do are amazing, some of the products, systems and technologies that we introduce are astounding, and it will be a fascinating experience to see thousands of people on the Derby site enjoying the industry that we work in.”
Rob added: “One of the reasons I’ve stayed in this industry is because of the people and I think our industry is at its best when we work together. As well as doing these wonderful things with technology, as well as doing these wonderful things with the future market, I’d like us to come back to some older principles of actually being even nicer and more pleasant to each other, creating nice working environments.”
Andy concluded: “There are huge capabilities with the people we have working in the UK rail industry. There is even more potential if we can unlock that innovation, we can get the pipeline, the industry made more simple and we can let that system deliver to its full potential. Get that right and we can do incredible things.”
John Doughty, Engineering Director at London Northwestern & West Midlands Railways (LN&WMR), discusses the journey of introducing new train fleets and transforming depots
Introducing a new train into service is one of the most complicated change programmes a train operator is ever likely to experience. Almost everyone’s role in the company is affected in some way, and as John Doughty is keen to emphasise, it only comes together with “a lot of teamwork, commitment and good leadership”.
As Engineering Director at LN&WMR, John is responsible for the provision of the train fleet operating commuter and regional services serving the West Midlands and linking London with the West Midlands and North West of England.
He spoke to Rail Director ahead of the latest launch of the operator’s Class 730/2 fleet of electric trains on routes to London Euston, a flagship in a £1 billion transformation programme, which alongside new trains includes investments into new and existing depots as well as station improvements.
“There is very little spare capacity in the national infrastructure, so fleet transition programmes require meticulous planning,” he said. “At the same time as introducing new fleets to service, the
depot rebuilding programme has been under way with construction taking place at almost all depot locations simultaneously – this has probably been the most difficult part, but in a true engineer’s determined spirit, we have found a way to do all of this in parallel and at the same time as keeping customers moving on the service trains. It’s a credit to my whole team who juggle all this activity and keep us running safely.”
The transformation originally started in 2017 when contracts were signed for the delivery of two new train fleets – the diesel class 196 Civity fleet and the electric class 730 Aventra fleet. The new 80-carriage class 196 multiple unit fleet in two and four-car formations was set to replace eight class 153 and 46 class 170 carriages. The 333-carriage class 730 multiple unit fleet formed 36 three-car class 730/0 and 45 five-car class 730/1 formations, replacing 60 class 319 carriages, 78 class 323 carriages and 148 class 350/2 carriages.
Reflecting changing travel patterns during the COVID pandemic, the order for class 730 was adjusted to be a total of 324 carriages formed as 48
three-car class 730/0 and 36 five-car class 730/2. With the new class 196 and 730 both having longer vehicle lengths (24 metres compared to the 20-metre class 319/350 and 23-metre class 153/170), in addition to the larger number of vehicles, these new fleets offer a significant uplift in capacity.
“The pandemic combined with various technical challenges meant the rollout into service was later than originally planned,” explained John. “We introduced the class 196/1 in autumn 2022, the 196/0 in early 2023, the class 730/0 in autumn 2023 and are now launching the class 730/2 with rollout completion expected in 2026.”
Alongside the trains has been a major £200 million construction project across all of the operator’s depots, bringing the necessary capacity and equipment to accommodate the new trains; the first large investment really made across LN&WMR’s depot and servicing estate since the construction of Northampton Kings Heath depot in the 2000s.
“Our two main depots, Bletchley TMD and Tyseley TMD, have been transformed,” John said. “The previously semi-derelict Bletchley site has been
Building strong foundations
With a keen eye on the future, Kieran recognised there was a gap in SEP Geotech’s offering:
with piling. The purpose of our investigation forms the basis of the pile design, and our sister company, SEP Rail Design, designs the piles; now we will install them.”
installation of foundations driven or bored into the ground to transfer loads to deeper, more stable soil.
These structural elements are essential when the natural bearing capacity of the soil is insufficient for supporting heavy construction loads.
developed since his teenage years, has been centred around piling. He explained:
While the demand is always there for new staff,
“This industry isn’t for the faint-hearted. Late nights, early mornings. Long periods of time away from your family. My office is my mobile phone and my van; we’re always on the road, on-site, and getting
“Our team shares a deep commitment to the enduring success of our business and is constantly seeking ways to enhance their skills and improve our
“We take pride in being one of the few geotechnical companies that offer specialised drilling NVQs to our team, ensuring that our workforce remains at the forefront of industry
This is a
foundations industry. Exciting innovations within pile design and installations are allowing for improved project turnaround times and more technically demanding programmes.
completely reconstructed with an extension. Key features include a full-length roof access and hoist system, synchronous lift facility for lifting a five-car train, and eight new servicing sidings.
“By leveraging our team’s experience, alongside utilising the wider SEP Rail Group’s capabilities, SEP Geotech is in a perfect position to deliver projects from feasibility to design through to completion.”
Prioritising growth and expertise
“As well as providing a home for our 730/2 fleet, Bletchley is set up for future rolling stock overhaul activity and to service and maintain our Marston Vale class 150 fleet, as well as the East West Railway class 196 fleet.
Investment in staff is one thing. But the evolving leading equipment. To address this, Kieran provides a candid glimpse into a forthcoming investment at SEP Geotech:
“We’re investing in a new, state-of-the-art solution designed for safe work on embankments, slopes, and even over water. This innovation eliminates the need for traditional rope access, streamlining our processes even further.”
carriage sidings at Bletchley. We’ll replace unsuitable walkways, install new lighting, new toilet extraction and tanking equipment, and staff accommodation.
We started this project by upgrading adjacent redundant freight sidings for use while we undertake the carriage sidings works. It’s not an easy project as it’s surrounded by railway and has no road access, with completion expected in 2027.”
“We are also in the process of rebuilding our
Investing in the professional development of the current team is also not just a priority; it’s a key part of SEP Geotech’s vision for the future.
Tyseley TMD in Birmingham has been extended to accommodate the longer four-car class 196 trains,
As SEP Geotech continues to evolve and expand its offerings, one thing is clear: Kieran Moran’s experience, dedication, and vision will remain at the forefront, driving the company to even greater heights in the geotechnical engineering industry.
Having worked around rolling stock and depots across my career in many different roles, you do think you’ve seen it all, but that certainly hasn’t been the case
with re-equipped fuelling and servicing points and a longer underframe cleaning shed. Features now include a four-car synchronous lift facility, four new mobile roof access gantry/hoist systems and an automatic vehicle inspection system. The works are due for completion in autumn.
“This is equipping the depot to support our new class 196 fleet in addition to our existing class 172 fleet and the CrossCountry Trains class 170 fleet that we maintain,” said John. “Elsewhere at Soho in the West Midlands, we installed a mobile roof access/ hoist gantry to support the maintenance of our class 730/0 fleet – completed in autumn 2023. By spring 2025, walkways and lighting were rebuilt in the eight servicing sidings with toilet retention/tanking equipment fitted to all sidings. Re-building the materials stores is expected by winter 2025.
“At Shrewsbury, two new servicing sidings have been installed complete with toilet retention tank emptying/tanking equipment, a new fuelling point, new walkways and lighting, security improvements and new staff accommodation, all completed by the end of 2024.
“In addition to supporting our own class 196 trains, the development works support the expanded Transport for Wales fleet of class 197 trains and its existing class 158 trains that arrive each night for servicing.”
Additionally, LN&WMR opened a new depot in Coventry North Yard in December 2024, installing toilet extraction/tanking equipment, new walkways, lighting, security and staff accommodation. Walkway, lighting and security improvements have been made at its Camden depot in London. There has also been the reconstruction of its Worcester depot fuel point to accommodate longer four-car units and installation of three new stabling sidings adjacent to Worcester Shrub Hill station in 2022.
“As with any redevelopment of existing railway locations, all the usual (and expected) challenges have arisen: historic contaminated ground conditions; unplanned additional repair work; and meeting modern standards in depots that were never originally constructed to those standards,” said John. “This has presented many detailed design challenges that we have overcome, all largely within our existing estate. It has been a challenging time for the construction industry during this project, from recovery postCOVID pandemic and parallel demands on resources from HS2.”
John has taken the challenges in his stride, taking confidence in the fact this hasn’t been the first time he’s managed a new trains introduction project, working in the early 2000s as Fleet Manager for Alstom West Coast Traincare (replacing Mk2/ Mk3/class 86/87/90 rolling stock with the then new class 390 Pendolino), and again in the late 2010s as Engineering Director at LNER (leading the replacement of the HST and IC225 fleets with new LNER Azuma class 800/801).
Looking to the future, there is quite a bit of work left to do including the rollout of the 730/2 fleet, hand back of 350/2 fleet and completion of some of the depot enhancement schemes that are under way. It doesn’t stop there as further depot projects are needed including:
Construction of additional stabling/servicing sidings in the West Midlands area to support the larger class 730/0 fleet.
Additional facilities at Northampton to support toilet retention tank emptying/tanking of our fleets.
Further enhancements at Tyseley depot including to the fuel point to accommodate new timetable train servicing demands and new facilities to improve external train presentation.
Traction supply resilience modifications for Soho and Bletchley depots.
“We have a number of new stations being constructed by West Midlands Rail Executive, including Willenhall and Darlaston between Walsall and Wolverhampton, and three new stations in south Birmingham on the Camp Hill route, and we will be supporting these with train services in due course,” John added. “We are very keen to reinstate the 10-minute service interval on the Cross City line and we have the crews and rolling stock already, but we need the additional train servicing infrastructure to support that.
“We have exciting plans to extend our Potteries service to Manchester Airport to create new connectivity with the Midlands. We also have plans to extend some Euston to Crewe services to Manchester Victoria via Warrington. These are subject to access applications but are strong prospects given that no additional paths are required into Euston and the capacity our new fleet brings.
“Beyond this, we have submitted a plan to the Department for Transport for complete decarbonisation of all our train services – this would require some investment, but not full route electrification and is a long-term project. Overall, it remains an exciting time for LN&WMR with lots of improvements still to come.”
Taking what is probably a rare moment to reflect, John has described his first three years at LN&WMR as “very challenging, but also very satisfying” particularly when looking back on what has been delivered. When he joined the first few new trains had already been accepted, but driver training had not begun, and none of the depot enabling works had been handed over, with most depot works not
submitted for approval.
“It was also the first week of national industrial action, which was to continue for two years, so delivering a change programme involving large-scale training wasn’t easy,” he added. “Since then, most of the depot enabling works have been delivered and are in daily use; four train fleets have been handed back to their owners with just one fleet to be handed back; and almost all new trains have been accepted, most of which are now in passenger service.
“Many of our customers are benefiting from new, better equipped, more comfortable and higher capacity trains, resulting in an encouraging increase in passengers travelling on our network.
“At the end of this programme, I will reflect back with great pride at the change that has taken place, how it has improved the travel experience for our customers, and also provided my maintenance and presentation teams with sufficient facilities to keep the fleet in tip-top condition for the next 30 years or more of its life.”
John takes a lot of pride in his job and his career in the railways, which started more than 35 years ago as a craft apprentice. Since then he’s gone on to work in various roles ranging from depot management, fleet management, fleet leasing, commercial/contract management, franchise bidding and as a director in train operating companies.
“I consider myself very lucky to have a job I enjoy, and I’ve had great colleagues around me to work with,” he said. “At school I knew I wanted to work in the railway, so it was a dream come true when I started.
“I could never have imagined how my career would progress, and I never had a plan for it – when interesting opportunities have arisen, I’ve been keen to get involved. When I reflect, all that comes to mind is the highlight events, both new train launches and existing fleet farewells.
“Having worked around rolling stock and depots across my career in many different roles, you do think you’ve seen it all, but that certainly hasn’t been the case. Each new role is a learning experience. The industry still has a lot to learn to improve performance, avoid mistakes and be better at managing change projects, but provided we keep using that experience, coaching and bringing through the next generation of leaders, we will continue to grow.”
Stevenson, Marketing
The Jobson James Rail team is celebrating the huge success of its inaugural Scottish Rail Infrastructure Networking event – RIN Glasgow, which featured 103 exhibitors, more than 625 visitors and 80 Meet the Buyer meetings.
RIN events are now the largest dedicated rail infrastructure trade shows in the UK, firmly established as the place to go to for infrastructure supply chain companies to market themselves, showcasing their products and services to major rail buyers.
Next up is RIN Derby, which will be the largest event to date, taking place at Derby Arena, on Thursday 11 September. All exhibitor spaces are sold out and the registered footfall is anticipated to exceed 1,200 visitors.
This year’s RIN series concludes with RIN Harrogate, returning to The Great Yorkshire Events Centre just outside
Harrogate, and conveniently located near the M1, on Thursday, 13 November. More than 170 exhibitors are booked to showcase their products and services at both events.
Next year marks the 10th anniversary of RIN events, stand space is now available to book at all four scheduled events. Due to growing demand, the London and Glasgow events will be moving to new, larger locations.
Antoinette Stevenson, Marketing and Events Manager at JJR, the organiser of RIN, explained: “We want to offer a first-class event to the railway supply chain that presents both value and opportunity. Our main business is Jobson James Rail – the market leading rail specialist insurance broker – we do not make a living from running rail
events, we are looking only to cover our costs on a not-for-profit basis.
“Whether attending as an exhibitor or a visitor, RIN events are the best way for any rail infrastructure company to promote themselves across the industry. They bring the rail infrastructure industry together in one room for positive and proactive networking, enabling exhibitors and visitors to connect with each other, securing potential new contracts to achieve business growth.”
Registration for visitor tickets to RIN is free, with those attending receiving hot breakfast rolls on arrival, and free tea and coffee throughout the event.
For more information on RIN events contact Antoinette 07849 835412 or visit www.rinevents.co.uk
The first train in East Midlands Railway’s (EMR) £23 million programme to modernise the Class 170 fleet was recently unveiled. Fleet Project Manager Bethan Mack and Programme Manager Steven Byrne explain more
EMR has recently unveiled its first fully refurbished Class 170 train, marking the beginning of a transformative year for the company in what it hopes will provide a significant upgrade in comfort and convenience for regional customers.
The revamped train is the first in a £23 million programme to modernise the fleet, enhancing the customer experience with brand new seats and tables, modern power and charging facilities, refurbished toilets, upgraded flooring, and a newly installed passenger information system.
Bethan Mack, Fleet Project Manager, and Steven Byrne, Programme Manager for Fleet Refurbishment, have been involved in the project and seen the progress from strip out right up to build and testing.
“It wasn’t until the unit was back at EMR’s Etches Park depot that we really got to feel the positive impact of the refurbishment when our depot drivers and shunters were complimentary,” said Bethan.
Some of our customers have even made comments that the new seats make you feel like you’re travelling in first class
“They loved that we had a dedicated bike and wheelchair space, they said the new seats and tables with at seat power/table sockets made the unit feel more modern and that the unit is now much more in line with our branding so you really feel like you’re travelling on an EMR train.
“This positive feedback has further been received from all over our business and from our customers, which has been incredible. Some of our customers have even made comments that the new seats make you feel like you’re travelling in first class.
“Hearing this kind of feedback and seeing the final product makes me feel really proud to have been involved and to have been such a big part in helping lead the project to where we are now. It is the largest and most complex project I’ve worked on to date and a huge highlight of my career.”
The project hasn’t come without its problems, which is to be expected when you consider the factors at play when delivering something so complex, whether that is resource, financial, timescales, external factors or scope challenges, all at the same
time as ensuring robust planning is in place to protect and maintain passenger services of the day.
Steven says that many valuable lessons have been learned to ensure the onward delivery of the refurbishment project runs successfully. “We also have to take into consideration these vehicles are around 25 years old, inherited from a number of prior rail operators,” he added.
“Putting all of the months’ worth of work from development and technical drawings right through into practical, you can never be 100 per cent of the
challenges you may face. We are combining the existing, newly refurbished and new technology into one, you are inevitably going come across bumps that require the teams to work to resolution.
“Projects of this scale see a vast amount of collaboration, and this has been no different. What I can say with confidence, is that all of the parties involved from EMR to suppliers and the rolling stock companies (ROSCOs), have worked incredibly well together to firmly cement the future of the project’s delivery as successful. As Programme Manager, I am exceptionally proud of the team.”
Putting all of the months’ worth of work from development and technical drawings right through into practical, you can never be 100 per cent of the challenges you may face
echoes Steven’s comments on how important the collaboration has been. The train operator has worked closely with Porterbrook and suppliers such as Arriva Train Care, Alstom, DG Design, Andy Sykes Design and DG8, and many internal functions to ensure the very best was achieved in terms of branding, on-train usability, and the data its systems collate.
“C170501 was the first unit to leave works this year for EMR, these trains haven’t had a refurbishment of this size for many years,” she explained. “This meant we were effectively starting from the beginning and although we’ve used our new Class 810 fleet as the basis of our designs, these train types are extremely different – not to mention that the Class 170s are over 20 years old.
“It has been really challenging making sure we get this right for our customers and our on board staff, we wanted to make sure we give them all the best experience and I am confident we’ve achieved this.
“Being involved in such a major transformational project for EMR is really exciting. Projects of this complexity are difficult and don’t come along that often, but as a team we have worked exceptionally hard and extremely well together and created something we can all be really proud of.”
The upgrade of the Class 170 fleet is part of a wider £60 million programme, which will also include the refurbishment of EMR’s Class 360 and Class 158 trains.
“The refurbishment programme in its entirety is of significant importance, not just for EMR but the industry, we’re setting the standard and this first Class 170 is just the start of many more to come,” added Steven. “As a business not only are we refurbishing the entirety of our existing fleets, but we’re also
introducing new trains.”
The refurbished Class 158, 170, and 360 fleets will have the same look and feel as that of the operator’s Class 810.
Steven spoke with Rail Director just ahead of the second 170 going into passenger service. By the time unit six is introduced, it is expected new refurbished trains will be introduced every five weeks.
In regards to the Class 158 project, the first in class unit is now back at our EMR Etches Park Derby depot, our first full EMR livery Class 158. Our fleet team are currently working on all of the necessary checks and balances before releasing into passenger service.
Finally, the Class 360 fleet will commence refurbishment in the latter part of the year, with Steven describing it as a “real step change from the current” and a “really exciting complex project that is progressing well with the physical works just on the horizon”.
“No matter which service you’re on, as soon as you step through the doors, you will know that you are on an EMR service and there is a consistent level of quality whether that be on our Regional, Intercity or Connect Services,” he said. “It is our responsibility as a good and efficient operator to ensure that what we’re delivering is to the highest quality and in that, the end result offers value for money and enhancers our passenger experience, which in turn will help drive footfall back onto the railway for years to come.
“The Class 170 project is a great example of this, we’ve been able to deliver an enhanced scope, meeting the needs of the passengers and that’s testament to the feedback received. This is EMR’s year of transformation, and we are firmly committed to serving the best for our passengers. We are excited to bring it all to life.”
A replacement for the existing Block Controller for single line track.
Our fully digital version of key token equipment communicates digitally through IP based systems, including provision for TPWS and section signal release.
The DiBloC features:
•IP connectivity with two redundant connections
•Physical key compatibility with existing key token machine equipment such as ground frame locks
•Ability to work in sets of 2-6 units
•Ability to operate TPWS and/or single throw/starting signals
•No on-board equipment –compatibility with all rolling stock
Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems has installed and commissioned its FreightControl Sentinel system. Director of Engineering and Innovation Sanjay Albert explains more
Sanjay Albert said it was a feeling of “pure emotion” when Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems successfully installed and commissioned its first pioneering FreightControl Sentinel system on a traditional freight wagon operating on the UK’s rail network.
This ground-breaking event, which took place at Heidelberg Materials’ Ribblesdale Cement Works in Lancashire in April, was 16 years in the making, a moment described by Knorr-Bremse’s Director of Engineering and Innovation as the beginning of a transformative era for digital rail freight.
“FreightControl Sentinel represents the best of our engineering and innovation efforts,” Sanjay said. “This technology is a game-changer for rail freight, offering a fully integrated approach to safety, operational monitoring, and digital connectivity.”
FreightControl Sentinel is the technological backbone of VTG’s award-winning iWagon and is set to revolutionise performance across the sector. It represents a leap forward in rail freight innovation by integrating advanced wheel flat prevention
technology, brake condition monitoring, and event data analytics into a single, seamless system.
“The fundamental concept was about how we can make wagons last longer,” explained Sanjay. “The genesis of the whole idea was initially around a wheel flat protection system taking into account that wheels and wheel flats are notorious from an operational and safety perspective.
“We initially developed a wheel flat prevention service but then began to think even bigger about the needs of our customers, and so we took a leap of faith and created a whole protection system.”
And Sanjay, who has worked for Knorr-Bremse for more than 20 years, highlighted that change of mindset as a turning point in overcoming the notorious valley of death in turning an idea into a reality.
“Rather than thinking that we had the whole solution from day one, if we came to any hurdles we instead took a few moments to reflect and looked again at identifying the actual pain point of the customer and find that solution,” he said. “It has
taken patience, and has highlighted that if you feel the whole world is against you, the simple answer is that you haven’t got the crux of the problem the industry is facing.
“Originally we thought the problem was wheel turning and believed that if we could base the whole thing commercially on wheel turning costs then it would fly off the shelves, but we were wrong.
“Once we identified it was much more than that, and organisations wanted something as a platform to enable much bigger services to happen, that was the biggest turning point. That and putting ourselves in the shoes of the customer saying ‘if I’ve got the money would I buy the product?’ and if the answer is yes, you stand a strong chance of getting the innovation through the valley of death.
“My message to other innovators is to get your technology right, wait for that opportunity to find what the pain point is, and once you kind of get it your product leaps ahead - we have seen that happen in real life. It is also important to choose your partners wisely. We couldn’t have achieved this on our own, a
vital element has been working together to overcome any issues.”
It is in the last two-and-a-half years that FreightControl Sentinel has gathered steam, with relentless engineering, testing, and integration. This culminated in April when Heidelberg Materials UK, a key customer of VTG Rail UK, became the first company globally to adopt the VTG iWagon.
Engineers are actively engaged in retrofitting its entire fleet of JPA wagons with this cutting-edge technology, and VTG Rail UK, Knorr-Bremse’s longstanding collaborative partner, has played a crucial role in the development and success of FreightControl Sentinel.
“It was a feeling of pure emotion when we successfully installed and commissioned the first FreightControl Sentinel system on a traditional freight wagon operating on the UK’s rail network,” said Sanjay. “Overall it took us 16 years to get there, so it has been a very long journey, and one complicated by everything you can think of.
“The impact shouldn’t be underestimated. This system prevents wheel flats, which means we won’t be having incidents where these wagons have been pulled for kilometres because people didn’t realise that it is happening and then the whole thing turns into a major incident/accident.
“That simple indication that there are some wheel flats or wheel slip activities happening allows authorities of both wagon and infrastructure owners to be aware of what is happening and if there are issues to be dealt with. Overall safety is going to be changed forever on the introduction of these systems and on the commercial side operationally there is going to be a huge benefit from making these wagons available.”
As the rail freight industry is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of five per cent over the next four years, operators face increasing pressure to meet demand safely and efficiently. However, persistent issues such as wheel slide, brake condition uncertainty, and a lack of digital oversight continue to challenge wagon reliability and network performance.
FreightControl Sentinel aims to directly address these barriers by integrating wheel flat prevention technology, brake condition monitoring, and advanced event data analytics into one seamless platform, providing a self-powered, permanently
connected solution for real-time diagnostics and decision-making.
“The next step is to install the system on as many wagon types as possible and to equip as many wagons as possible in the UK,” said Sanjay. “From a digital perspective, the growth is endless because once you have the power and the data coming out of the wagon, the next steps are in the hands of our customer in however and whatever they want to take the wagon as a service concept.
“There is a lot of excitement in the market about the opportunities it brings, and as rail freight operators increasingly seek smarter solutions to boost capacity and cut costs, this is another example of KnorrBremse leading the charge with digital technologies that transform traditional freight wagons into intelligent, data-driven assets.”
Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems (UK) is a member of the global Knorr-Bremse Group, the global market leader in braking systems and other mission-critical systems for rail and commercial vehicles.
https://truck.knorr-bremse.com/en/gb/ about-us/knorr-bremse-united-kingdom/
This technology is a game-changer for rail freight, offering a fully integrated approach to safety, operational monitoring, and digital connectivity
Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, discusses an ambitious vision to deliver an integrated, high-frequency public transport network for North Wales
“More
It is with a lot of excitement that Ken Skates talks about Network North Wales, describing it as a bold passenger-focused programme of work to better connect communities with more rail and bus services and greater integration. The vision is to maximise opportunity and unlock the economic potential of North Wales and the cross-border region.
“In 30 years’ time I want to see the economic challenges that we face today being addressed through investment in public transport,” explained the Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales. “That means getting metro services across North Wales, that means the full integration of rail and bus services with one timetable, one ticket and one network.
“It means strong resilient connections between Wales and the north west and a functional economic area of North Wales and the North West that is booming.”
The journey to get to this destination is through the recently announced Network North Wales, which among the proposals includes metro-style train services on the North Wales main line, the Marches line (Chester to Wrexham) and a new, direct rail link between Wrexham and Liverpool.
That work is already under way, with a raft of improvements over the next 12 months, to longerterm plans through to 2035. Other objectives include defining future targets for higher frequency services, reopening closed stations, creating new stations and exploring the role of new transport modes such as tram trains.
The details were unveiled at Wales’ first Public Transport Summit in Wrexham last month, designed to bring together Wales and England’s influential transport and business leaders to look to unlock economic prosperity through the public transport lens.
Progress is already being made, with the Welsh
Government allocating an additional £13.5 million this financial year to Network North Wales, which Ken says will have a pretty significant impact in terms of service uplifts, with a 100 per cent increase between Wrexham and Chester, and a 50 per cent increase in the North Wales main line. This investment is on top of introducing £800 million of new trains onto the railway lines in Wales.
“Looking longer term, to get the infrastructure we need in order to operate metro services across the region, we need to deal with the North Wales main line, the capacity constraints to Chester and also several issues along the Wrexham to Liverpool line,” Ken added. “We have got an agreed list of priorities with the Department for Transport (DfT) and that has been the basis of the submission from the DfT to the Treasury as part of its engagement over the Comprehensive Spending Review.
“I think we have put forward a strong case, backed
by the best possible partnership in place to deliver Network North Wales.”
In the Government Spending Review the Chancellor announced rail investment in Wales of at least £445 million. The package will invest in both North and South Wales, fixing level crossings, building new stations, and upgrading existing lines
Ken added: “UK Government, local government, Transport for Wales (TfW) and English local authorities are working with us to deliver this bold programme of work to better connect communities, with more rail and bus services and greater integration, new stations, new transport routes, new trains, new buses, new technology.
“With unprecedented partnership across governments, across borders and across the north, we have the opportunity to turn dreams into reality, to deliver on an enduring vision for what a public transport network should look like. Most importantly, we have an opportunity to deliver the principal purpose of public transport – to drive economic growth and prosperity for all.”
Ken is enthused by the work under way for South Wales with the South Wales Metro, centred on Cardiff Central railway station, which aims to provide a more reliable, faster, greener and accessible transport system, combining heavy rail, light rail, and bus services.
“We have already delivered significantly for South Wales with the South Wales Metro. Building on the £800m investment in new trains, the majority of which are already serving the North Wales region, now is the right time for North Wales to get the same level of ambition,” he said.
“TfW and Network Rail have both responded incredibly well to the vision, but all of this has been enabled by the fact that we have unprecedented collaboration taking place across the UK and Welsh Government and indeed across council borders and across the England Wales border.”
Ken has been speaking with those involved in the plans for a new railway connecting Liverpool to Manchester, which would include stops at a new Liverpool Gateway station, Warrington Bank Quay and Manchester Airport. The project is one of the key components of its Northern Arc vision, which could generate £90 billion in economic growth in the North West by 2040.
Setting out the proposals last month, regional leaders said it could offer a new, more effective model for building big projects, led local, delivered faster, and designed around communities, and that if the Government work in partnership on the plans construction could begin in the early 2030s.
Ken doesn’t see any reason why Network North Wales couldn’t be part of a bigger picture to boost the wider economy.
“I was with Steve Rotheram and Andy Burnham (Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester Mayors) when they were presenting their vision for the Northern Arc. The pitch I made was let’s make the Northern Arc extend from Holyhead all of the way to Hull, because we want to make sure there are better outcomes in terms of the economy right across the North and public transport is a key enabler for that to happen,” he added.
“The Northern Arc project has the link between Liverpool and Manchester at its heart and that would be of enormous benefit to North Wales, so I am fully supportive of the vision of a public transport system right across the North that can address historic injustice in terms of what the North has faced.
“One of the key factors holding us back is poor connective infrastructure so investing right across the North will be of benefit to all parts. I see Network North Wales as completing the Northern Arc.”
In respects to Network North Wales, work is commencing on the line between Wrexham and Liverpool as the first crucial first phase of delivering
In 30 years’ time I want to see the economic challenges that we face today being addressed through investment in public transport
metro services direct between the two cities. Train services between Wrexham and Chester will double next May.
Other proposals unveiled at the summit in Wales includes bringing forward the introduction of 50 per cent more services across the North Wales main line from December 2026 to next May – resulting in a new service from Llandudno to Liverpool and extending the Manchester Airport service to Holyhead in place of Llandudno.
On completion of rail line works at Padeswood, train services between Wrexham and Bidston will increase to two trains per hour within the next three years, ahead of the introduction of four trains per hour that will run direct between Wrexham and Liverpool by 2035.
“Economically I think North Wales has been held back by comparatively poor public transport over many, many decades,” he said. “There has been success in North Wales in terms of the economy, but a lot of the big hitters that have come here have done so not because of our public transport system, but probably in spite of it.
“We lost a huge number of jobs when traditional industries collapsed in the 1980s and we’ve managed to attract and develop some world-class businesses, but there is still more that we can do in terms of the economy and if you look at productivity levels, if you look at economy inactivity levels across North Wales, there is a compelling case to intervene more to really drive economic growth.”
In the next six months
Continue introducing brand-new trains as part of our £800 million investment, with over 87 per cent of passenger journeys being made on brand-new trains in North Wales.
Rename the Borderlands Line to the Wrexham-Liverpool Line and rebrand its trains, better reflecting its connection with the communities it serves and the ambition to better connect with Liverpool.
In the next year
Double the frequency of trains between Wrexham and Chester.
Upgrade railway stations on the Wrexham-Liverpool Line.
Increase services on the North Wales main line by 50 per cent.
Introduce new bus services to improve access to jobs in Wrexham and Deeside.
Launch direct trains between Llandudno and Liverpool.
Begin rolling out pay as you go on rail services in North Wales.
Start the T13 bus service between Rhyl and Wrexham via Ruthin and Denbigh.
Add Metro and Network North Wales branding to trains, buses and stations to make the network easier to navigate.
In the next three years
Carry out upgrades at Padeswood to unlock more freight and passenger capacity.
Start running two trains per hour between Wrexham and Liverpool.
Improve station safety and access at Buckley.
In the next five years
Deliver more new trains and build new stations.
Improve rail connections to Manchester Airport.
Have a consistent rail timetable for the North Wales main line.
Upgrade signals at Gobowen to increase capacity on the Marches line.
By 2035
Electrify the North Wales Main Line.
Increase platform capacity at Chester railway station.
Run four trains per hour from Wrexham to Liverpool.
Increase services on the North Wales main line.
Significantly improve accessibility at stations, including level boarding.
Beyond 2035
Introduce Metro-style services to stations south of Wrexham to Gobowen.
Improve journey times between North and South Wales.
Build new stations north and south of Wrexham, including A55 Parkway.
Electrify and re-signal the Marches line.
Improve Northern line connections from Wrexham to Leeds.
Other aspects of Network North Wales include work with Network Rail to determine the feasibility of a rapid delivery of a new test railway station at Deeside Industrial Park, to gauge demand for permanent services to the park.
A new electrification innovation fund has also been launched to develop a plan to decarbonise the railway in North Wales and enable more frequent metro services and additional stations. It will be led by TfW, with Ken having high expectations of the supply industry building on a proven track record it has for being innovative.
“Down in South Wales on metro services you will find the very latest innovations being introduced,” he said. “For example, discontinuous electrification is used on the South Wales Metro, there are tri-mode trains.
“I’m keen to make sure that the supply chain is engaged and providing the solutions to some of the challenges that we face. We’re in a great position to do this, especially with the plans for the Global Centre of Rail Excellence in Wales, rail innovation will be what that place drives. It won’t just be a facility for testing, it will provide huge amounts of opportunities for the supply chain and for employment.
“In terms of the electrification innovation fund, TfW is already engaging with the industry, and we’ve tasked Network Rail and TfW to come back with a decarbonisation plan that will identify some of the opportunities, especially for the North Wales main line.
“I’m really excited for what the future holds. This is the most optimistic that I’ve felt for a long time that we are going to develop across Great Britain the sort of services that Europeans take for granted. The rail reform introduced by UK Government is outstanding and I’m looking forward to working with the rail and transport ministers to ensure that we drive the reform through as successfully as possible.”
Other aspects of the Network North Wales plan include match funding for step-free access at Shotton and Ruabon stations, working with local authorities to develop plans for Gateway multi-modal interchanges at Holyhead, Bangor, Caernarfon and Wrexham. There are also plans to examine options to re-open stations and build new stations to serve employment growth areas.
Ken concluded: “More services. More new trains. A better railway for North Wales, and delivery at an unprecedented pace.
“This is a long-term vision, which begins now with real changes including the rollout of Pay as You Go – the tap on tap off deployment most of us only experience in London. Improved stations, increased services and an additional integrated bus service are all part of immediate changes over the next 12 months.
“Network North Wales contains infrastructure priorities that have been agreed by UK and Welsh Governments, and re-confirms our long-held objective to electrify lines.
“This vision should outlast any single minister, government or economic and political circumstances. Working together, we’ll deliver our ambitious plans that take us to 2035 and beyond.”
Wouldn’t it be nice if you had a system on site that could give you platform and structure gauging measurement results in real time? Alan Barrow, of ABA Surveying, explains how it could be coming to a track near you soon
When the new Network Rail Standard NR/L2/TRK/3204/01 became active in September 2024, the way was cleared for bringing gauging, and particularly platform gauging, into the 21st century. A totally new system is currently going through the Product Approval (PA) stages with Network Rail and is hoped will be released by Q4 this year.
That you are still reading this means that you have an interest in gauging and may even have had personal experience of actually having done it. If so, it will probably evoke fond memories of night shifts spent bending up and down, trying to write X and Y offsets on a wet paper TEF sheet with numb fingers, and deciding whether it should be a 10mm or a 30mm versine when the string was vibrating in the wind like a double base.
Traditionally, for platform gauging it has been mandated to use only a generic platform gauge and more recently its equivalent, which combines electronic distance measurement with an angle
encoder, and there was no escaping the three people and a bit of string needed for the versine measurement.
Of course, these measurements were only valid at the chainage you took them and did not account for any possible gauging issues elsewhere, unless you took additional measurements at those chainages as well.
After typically spending a couple of hours or so measuring each platform at 5m intervals, there then comes the task of deciphering your field bookings and notes back at the office and transcribing them into a computer. Having done all that, the data still needs to be put into a gauging file format with the correct coding to be able to run in the gauging software.
At this point you need a rigorous quality control system in place to ensure that whether the gauging software reports ‘clear’ or ‘foul’ that it really is ‘clear’ or ‘foul’, and not resulting from a measuring, reading, booking, transcription or data entry error. Wouldn’t
Wouldn’t it be nice if you had a system on site that could provide all those platform and structure gauging measurements for you and give you a ‘clear’ or ‘foul’ in real time?
it be nice if you had a system on site that could provide all those platform and structure gauging measurements for you and give you a ‘clear’ or ‘foul’ in real time?
As simple as using a smartphone and all done by just one person. Watch this space.
About ABA Surveying: A leading UK-based survey company providing high precision dimensional surveying services throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe. Specialising in BIM compliant datasets of the built environment, the company is focused on the rail, highways, architectural, structural and engineering sectors.
Formed in 1990, the company has a reputation for developing unique surveying solutions in challenging situations based on the innovative use of new technology. Its aspiration is to be the survey supplier of choice for all our clients.
01483 797111
alan@ABAsurveying.co.uk
www.ABAsurveying.co.uk
For over 50 years, Jones Nuttall Ltd, based in Warrington, Cheshire, has been at the forefront of precision engineering, specialising in rail overhaul, refurbishment, CNC machining, and fabrication. Our extensive experience and customer-focused approach have allowed us to forge long-standing partnerships with some of the UK’s largest rail operators, including Metrolink, part of the iconic yellow Bee Network.
As the Bee Network continues to grow, Metrolink has ambitious plans to expand its tram network over the next 10 years, providing even more seamless connectivity across Greater Manchester. Jones Nuttall is proud to play a pivotal role in this expansion, contributing our engineering expertise to ensure the reliability and safety of the system as it evolves.
Our partnership with Metrolink is built on trust, reliability, and innovation. By supplying precision-engineered rail components, we play a crucial role in maintaining and upgrading their tram network. One of the standout projects has been the refurbishment and moderniation of Metrolink’s electro-magnetic track brake systems—essential emergency braking systems that provide additional stopping power in critical situations. These systems are vital for the safe and efficient operation of trams, activating during emergencies to deliver fast, reliable braking independent of the vehicle’s primary brake system. Our engineering expertise allows us to breathe new life into aging parts, offering cost-effective solutions to replace discontinued components without compromising performance, ensuring these systems remain reliable and effective for years to come.
At Jones Nuttall, we maintain full control over production through our comprehensive in-house machining capabilities. Whether it’s producing aluminum rubbing plates or other critical components on our CNC milling machines, we ensure every part meets the highest precision and quality standards demanded by the rail industry.
Beyond component manufacturing, we specialise in refurbishment and modifications. Our work on electro-magnetic track brake systems is a prime example of how we help our clients maintain safety and operational efficiency. By refurbishing these emergency braking systems, we ensure trams are equipped to handle critical braking situations, significantly enhancing both safety and reliabilitity while minimising downtime and operational costs. As a company, we are dedicated to advancing the rail industry by investing in the latest technology, skilled engineering talent, and innovative processes. This commitment enables us to meet the evolving needs of the sector, delivering high-quality solutions on time and within budget.
With Metrolink’s future expansion plans on the horizon, Jones Nuttall is excited to continue our partnership, providing the precision engineering expertise necessary to support the modernization and growth of the Bee Network. Our focus on precision engineering, innovation, and customer satisfaction makes us the ideal partner for rail operators seeking to enhance performance, safety, and longevity in their fleets.
Testing has taken place for the world’s fi rst operational steam locomotive to be fi tted with European Train Control System (ETCS) technology
Testing at speed for the world’s first operational steam locomotive to be fitted with ETCS technology has proven a success in proving that it could be fitted and driven safely using the system in the harsh environment of a steam locomotive footplate.
Tornado, a modern steam locomotive built in 2008, is the first loco in the charter and heritage pathfinder project for the East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP), blending steam engineering with digital signalling technology.
The process of dynamic testing is intended to provide learnings, and issues and challenges uncovered by this testing phase that can now be carefully analysed. Later this year, the heritage diesel pathfinder loco Deltic Royal Scots Grey is also expected to undertake dynamic testing on the Cambrian. Further refining and assurance processes will be involved ahead of any main line heritage operation in ETCS Level Two.
Ed Akers, Network Rail’s Industry Partnership Director, ECDP, said: “The innovation and expertise delivered through the Tornado pathfinder has provided significant learnings for our programme, applicable for fitment across a range of fleets.
“The pathfinder project reflects the ‘whole railway’ nature of our collaborative ECDP partnership. This recent testing was an important stage in a process to determine the technical and commercial feasibility of fitment for heritage and charter fleets.”
The pathfinder project was set up to enable all parts of the railway to share in a digital transformation. The introduction of digital signalling, initially to the East Coast Main Line, aims to create a
more efficient, more reliable and even safer railway with lower emissions.
The heritage pathfinder is about the potential for main line operations of steam and heritage diesel to be enjoyed and celebrated by future generations. Heritage rail plays an important role in the UK tourist economy, contributing more than £600 million annually.
The fitment has involved a dynamic collaboration with Hitachi Rail (onboard equipment), AtkinsRealis (fitment design), A1 Steam Locomotive Trust (loco owners) and Network Rail (integration). The project overcame significant challenges around electrical supply, managing braking, both directions running, and enabling the human interface in an environment that is noisy and dusty, sometimes rainy, with vibrations.
Andy Bell, Vice President, Hitachi Rail UK, said: “Tornado’s retrofit with our ETCS is a world-first that has tested our technology in one of the most complex operating environments. This very special project demonstrates not only the adaptability of Hitachi Rail’s system but also what’s possible when we respect the past while designing for what’s next, combining engineering expertise with deep, trusted partnerships across the industry.
“The lessons we’ve learned here have created a valuable blueprint for future projects. Carrying forward the relationships, insights, and technical progress from this work will be essential to maintaining momentum, not only for heritage integrations but for wider applications across modern rolling stock as well.”
Alejandro Moreno, AtkinsRéalis Market Director
– Rail & Transit, UK & Ireland, said: “Steam locomotives are more than just machines, they’re living, breathing monuments to British innovation. We had to find creative solutions to integrate modern technology in an environment that is noisy, dusty, hot and exposed – all the while preserving Tornado’s authentic character and enabling operation on the digital railway.
“This world-first project will benefit the entire sector, demonstrating how a collaborative pathfinder approach can solve complex fitment challenges across our evolving railway.”
The overnight test runs took place during four nights on the Cambrian line between Shrewsbury and Newtown, in Mid Wales. The Cambrian line was an early pilot of ETCS in this country, completed in 2011.
The test trains have been operated by special trains operator West Coast Railway with Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) providing expertise in the form of the test train officers involved with each trip.
Rob Morland, Electrical Engineer, The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust, said: “We have extended Tornado’s already comprehensive electrical system to provide the additional power required. This has included the fitment of a second steam turbogenerator, a new axle driven alternator and a third battery bank, dedicated to ETCS. The system is designed to provide a very reliable electrical supply to meet in full the availability requirements of a modern onboard digital signalling system.
“We’ve also supported the mechanical and design work, undertaking changes to both the tender and engine, and supported the work to install, commission and test the system.”
Noel Travers, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Buckland Rail, explains how there is nothing they can’t do when it comes to freight wagons
e offer every aspect of service that could possibly be needed in the freight wagon market.”
It’s a bold statement by Buckland Rail CEO Noel Travers, but one backed up by the expertise of the companies which form the company – WH Davis, Davis Wagon Services and Yellow Rail.
It’s a year since the creation of Buckland Rail was announced, leveraging the collective strengths of its subsidiaries by fostering closer collaboration to increase its capabilities and service offering to passenger and freight customers. It builds on the three rail businesses’ established relationships and highly complementary portfolios, particularly in the areas of freight wagon maintenance, bogie overhaul, and material supply services.
“In WH Davis, Davis Wagon Services and Yellow Rail you have three individual businesses that operate very well and have got some great opportunities going forward,” said Noel. “By having an all-in offering through Buckland Rail, a one-stop service provider, I believe we can make something much bigger.
“From a Buckland Rail perspective, this is about building an infrastructure to help the businesses operate more effectively, not destroying the value that currently exists but taking away some of the challenges, supporting the businesses centrally, especially with support functions related to
procurement, finance, IT and HR. This is about facilitating their growth in their marketplaces and helping them to expand into new markets or new services.”
Davis Wagon Services supplies rail wagon maintenance and repair, WH Davis provides wagon design and manufacture services, and Yellow Rail offers high value and safety critical rail services and innovative niche technologies.
Noel, who was appointed CEO in January, said: “Through the three companies we offer concept design, advising potential customers on the art of what’s possible, through to detailed design, manufacture, through life maintenance, overhaul and general repair, then repurposing and eventually scrapping.
“So there is nothing that needs to be done to a freight wagon that we don’t have the capability to do within the group.”
Davis Wagon Services is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of rail wagon maintenance and repair. With roots firmly in the rail sector, it continues to set an ever-increasing standard to meet the needs of a diverse and changing industry.
https://daviswagonservices.co.uk/
And despite being relatively new, Noel is very optimistic for Buckland Rail, enthused by the Managing Directors (MDs) of WH Davis, Davis Wagon Services and Yellow Rail: Andy Houghton, John Hall, and Paul Cunningham respectively, who are not only passionate about the individual businesses but the overall potential under the parent company.
“The MDs see the value of thinking and looking at the challenges as a whole and looking at strategy as a group because they all realise the businesses overlap and sometimes butt up against each other in a good way so that there aren’t gaps,” said Noel.
“Sometimes one of the businesses can take the initiative to help one of the other entities. Making sure that everyone’s aware of the opportunities and challenges across the group gives us the best chance to take the action that’s going to minimise the risk and maximise the opportunity.
“What has been particularly pleasing has been the reaction of colleagues at all three companies. No matter whether I’m at Yellow Rail, WH Davis or Davis Wagon Services, there has always been a level of engagement from staff that has been as good as anything I’ve seen anywhere.
“There is a willingness to engage and highlight what’s going well, but conversely look at where improvements can be made. It’s something I’ve always liked to actively encourage and credit to all three MDs
WH Davis is the UK’s leading railway wagon manufacturer and has been designing and manufacturing railway wagons and containers from its site in Mansfield for more than 100 years. Visit https://whdavis.co.uk/
for developing a culture whereby management being on the shop floor is welcomed, not feared.”
Looking to the future, Noel told Rail Director that Buckland Rail has three very healthy businesses. He admits WH Davis has had a challenging few years, but Buckland Group’s decision to keep the business afloat when there had been a lack of orders has paid off with recent contracts, including 150 freight wagons, which could rise to 400, from Irish Rail, plus a deal with Celsa Steel UK to support its works in South Wales.
“We also signed a deal with Freightliner and Porterbrook to convert coal hoppers to a brand new design of box wagon that moves the market on significantly,” he explained. “These orders, along with the long-term contract for Irish Rail and some other short-term contracts that we are completing, have returned the business to profitability, allowing us to continue investing in the business and create 20 new roles. The future of the business is now looking very strong and healthy.
“Having grown the business consistently over the past 12 years, Davis Wagon Services is now steady in terms of its revenue stream and profitability. It remains a good reliable business with some exciting opportunities for growth, so we’ll continue to invest to make it efficient and effective.”
And things are just as promising for Yellow Rail. Noel spoke with Rail Director shortly after it was announced the organisation would be relocating to the iconic Derby Litchurch Lane works, home of Alstom’s historic train manufacturing site.
The move will enable Yellow Rail to more than triple its current workshop space dedicated to the overhaul of freight bogies. The long-term lease will also provide ample space for growth, allowing remote field service activities to be brought on to the site, enabling Yellow Rail to create around 25 new roles.
“The move is going to make us rail connected giving us the ability to grow that business significantly,” added Noel. “The factory allows us to bring wagons onto site and undertake all aspects of work required.
“WH Davis can already carry out the more significant repurposing, where you’re making major modifications to a wagon body like taking a coal hopper and shortening it so that it can become an aggregate hopper or taking a coal hopper and converting it into a box wagon. That will always be WH Davis.
“But when you’re doing a life extension or modifications to existing wagons to improve their performance, having the facility in Yellow Rail, which is much more about getting things through the workshop more quickly, gives us the ability to do that more efficiently in another site that doesn’t impact the operations in WH Davis. Our own facility
at Derby also provides an excellent platform to serve the passenger overhaul modification markets as well.”
For Noel, the appointment at Buckland Rail has marked a return to familiar territory, having worked in the freight sector in 1994 for Freightliner, spending the best part of five years on the operator side.
“I was responsible for the fleet of wagons and locomotives, doing all the things that are now the responsibility of my customers, such as buying in maintenance services,” he reflected. “The market hasn’t moved on significantly from when I was in it and that’s both good and bad. It means a lot of aspects are very familiar to me and I understand the customer’s challenges.
“There is an opportunity to do things better and to do things differently. Overall, the freight market is one that I’m very comfortable in and it’s nice to be back, but also bringing that passenger experience to bear in growing the business back in that area too.”
Noel will soon be marking his 40th year in the rail industry, having joined British Rail as a sponsored Engineering Management Trainee in 1988 and training for two years alongside his Mechanical Engineering degree at Loughborough University, later holding engineering and management posts in Chiltern Railways and Intercity West Coast.
He’s gone on to build extensive experience and deep knowledge of all aspects of the railway industry, including infrastructure, rolling stock and the supply chain, having worked for Bombardier Transportation, Unipart Rail, and latterly as Managing Director of the Xrail Group.
“Unlike sometimes in the past when I’ve gone into a business because significant challenges need addressing, in this case the opportunity is to take a good business, make it even better and do so much more” Noel explained.
“Such is the ambition that we are intending to at least double the size of the business in the next three to five years. We have the ability to do that profitably, as we can pick and choose the opportunities that we go after.”
By having an
offering through Buckland Rail, a one-stop service provider, I believe we can make something much bigger
Yellow Rail provides high value and safety critical rail services and innovative niche technologies to customers across the UK and Ireland, helping them improve their asset performance, availability and end-user experience.
Visit www.yellow-group.com
The premises is a shared space for RBD and its parent company Railway Industry Association (RIA), incorporating networking and a fl exible event space
his new facility marks a pivotal moment for RBD and one which I am confident will provide a springboard for an even greater future.” Those were the opening words from RBD Managing Director Dean Bruce at the official opening of the organisation’s new Leeds office.
He was addressing more than 100 rail industry leaders who were in attendance looking around the new office, strategically located near Leeds railway station. The premises is a shared space for RBD and its parent company the Railway Industry Association (RIA), incorporating networking and a flexible event space that RBD clients can take advantage of.
Darren Caplan, Chief Executive Officer of RIA, said: “Members, industry and political stakeholders, as well as colleagues, joined us to celebrate a major step forward for RIA in our 150th year.
“The opening of the Leeds office reflects the need to champion a dynamic rail supply industry across the nations and regions of the UK. We look forward to holding both internal and external events in the space for the benefit of members and the wider railway industry.”
The new office occupies the top floor of 2 Bond Court, with an attractive courtyard at the front of the building and extensive views of Leeds from the new flexible space.
The official opening earlier this month featured speeches from Ben Still, West Yorkshire Combined Authority Chief Executive Officer; Jason Hamilton, Route Director - North & East at Network Rail; and
“This is an important moment not just for RIA, but for the industry we love and the wider rail supply community across the North,” said Kelly. “There is a new and exciting momentum building in the industry – our industry – in its 200th year. What better way to celebrate and mark that moment than with this celebration?
“Opening this office is more than a ribbon cutting. It’s a tangible demonstration of the commitment that RIA is making to that exciting future. A commitment to the regions; to supporting fantastic members wherever they are, and, importantly, to make sure regional voices are central to the national conversation about the future of our railway industry that’s taking place right now.”
The move to a new Leeds office is one of many changes at RBD as the organisation continues to evolve to meet the needs of its clients. This includes growing its core products, including the Rail Business Daily email, and the monthly Rail Director magazine, as well as plans to launch a dedicated marketing service for rail.
Kelly, who has experience of using RBD’s marketing services, said: “This office stands as a clear symbol of how central RBD is to the wider RIA group and as a member, I can say firsthand that the services RBD provides are excellent.
“Whether it’s communications, media support, or raising profiles, they do it with energy, insight,
and most importantly with a grounded sense of the principles and values that represent the best of our industry.
“Let’s not forget, the office itself looks fantastic. It’s modern, welcoming and located at the heart of the key activity taking place across the North. It embodies what RIA is about; professional, collaborative and built around long-term thinking and practical support for its members.”
Dean added: “The RBD team have been very busy and whilst our primary values of being a force for good in rail and helping businesses to do more work in rail remain the same, we are keen to ensure RBD develops to serve our client’s needs. That is why we have worked hard to improve our core products, and we have added new products to our portfolio.
“Last year we published a popular InnoTrans supplement and developed the hugely popular UltimateRailCalendar annual wall planner. More recently we have launched the Rail Director Innovation 2025 Special Edition, which will be published this October, showcasing the latest rail technology. More exciting news is coming soon as we look to officially launch our dedicated marketing service for rail.”
For more details about the Leeds office email bookings@riagb.org.uk or call 020 7201 0777.
For more information about RBD Marketing Services contact Sarah@railbusinessdaily.com
To discuss advertising with railbusinessdaily.com contact chrisw@railbusinessdaily.com
Matt Cleaver, Managing Director (MD) at Tate Technical, discusses helping clients manage their environments efficiently and safely
The team at Tate Technical is not fazed by the challenges facing the rail sector, in fact quite the opposite, revelling in the opportunities of finding sustainable HVAC services solutions which ensure the comfort and efficiency of facilities.
Among its areas of expertise includes the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, cooling and ventilation systems, with a track record in the railways in maintaining optimal indoor climates to support productivity and wellbeing.
“Whether you are looking to upgrade your current HVAC system or install a new one, Tate Technical is committed to delivering superior quality and exceptional service,” explained MD Matt Cleaver.
At Tate Technical the mission is to provide unparalleled HVAC services that not only meet but
exceed the expectations of clients, driven by the power of innovation, dedication and expertise, to drive success for customers. Services cover everything from the installation of advanced heating and cooling systems, to regular maintenance and emergency repairs.
“It is all about empowering businesses and communities to achieve their sustainability goals through state-of-the-art energy solutions, ensuring a greener and more sustainable future for all,” added Matt. “This is driven by a team which shares the same passion in delivering solutions that are safe, efficient and sustainable, ensuring the highest level of satisfaction.”
Matt was appointed MD six months ago, attracted by the opportunity of shaping the business from his experience of working for the bigger Tier 1s, knowing
the challenges they faced and the gaps in the market for Tate Technical to also provide in other sectors. He is adamant that the company should continue to serve customers of all sizes.
“Everyone deserves the same opportunity to maintain optimally functioning assets, thrive in a supportive environment, and receive bespoke solutions for their technical requirements,” he said. “We adhere to a single standard, keeping our promise to our customers, which is a commitment to supporting the shift to the most economical solutions.”
Matt highlights the importance of a building’s heating, cooling and ventilation, explaining that you can remain compliant but still have poor system utilisation offering occupiers reduced benefits. He asks readers if they are aware of the limitations
of heating and cooling systems and the potential impact if proper ventilation isn’t provided and optimal comfort for staff and customers.
“Marginal gains in system performance result in improved efficiency and operability, which generates better results for business performance,” he said. “Plus this can lead to reduced costs and impact to the environment.”
Tate Technical’s diverse customer base is built on years of experience and trusted partnerships across multiple sectors. This is centred on the provision of tailored solutions to manage complex building environments, backed up by comprehensive research achieved by indoor air quality assessments, system validation comparing current performance to building needs, energy management services and advice, plus consulting services and project management.
“We prioritise your needs and never push unnecessary products or replacements,” Matt emphasised. “Our goal is to help you make informed decisions by considering risk, cost, and compliance.
“Whereas some similar organisations might focus on providing conventional services in terms of replacing assets and moving on, I’m from more of a life-cycle modelling background, working with customers to understand that although there are compliances that need to be met, it doesn’t have to drive everything to replacement or servicing activities.
“Our work involves a bit of a history lesson, monitoring performance and helping a client prioritise which areas might not need immediate spending because that system is performing. It’s about not just physically dropping kit out and making money from that, but about building long-term relationships, offering services through consultation.”
Tate Technical benefits from its own projects division, compliance team, and dedicated contract manager for its customers. It has a proven track record in the rail industry and the complexities and pressures of working in the sector. Among just some of its success stories includes:
Cambridge South station (new build) – HVAC Services to office spaces.
Hardwick House, Euston station – mechanical and electrical project installations.
Main station maintenance and repair: Kings Cross and St Pancras, Birmingham New Street, London Victoria, Euston, London Bridge.
Regional/route maintenance delivery: Sussex, Wessex, trackside and non-trackside.
The company also prides itself on having an important role to play around the sector’s wider challenges, including sustainability.
Matt said: “Our sector is one of the easiest to scrutinise in regards to sustainability because our main deliverable is trying to maintain indoor air quality and thermal environments, whether that is office spaces or equipment rooms.
“That could be a very high risk rail control centre where they need to maintain certain environmentals
versus whether it is a shop, office, somewhere else. Everything that we do is of equal importance and will be met with the highest levels of compliance and highest of standards.”
There is also a lot of thought given to the logistics of any job Tate Technical is involved in, with previous scoping reports to hire specialist aerial access and lift solutions for plant to be lifted onto a roof as an alternative to closing roads and putting a crane in the middle of London – options that may prove both cheaper and less disruptive.
“If you want to manage risk and have your budgets managed, we are an organisation that understands and offers a service with minimum call backs or reactives,” added Matt. “Our work is of the highest quality and can leave clients assured that the risk is managed, but equally if you wanted to have an affordable long-term solution we are the business that can provide that.”
The company’s state-of-the-art facilities support its fully trained engineers, who hold industry-leading qualifications and certifications. With UKASapproved ISO certifications, Environment Agency certification for waste handling, and REFCOM certification for F-Gas compliance, The Tate Group upholds the highest standards of quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.
Explaining the future for Tate Technical, Matt concluded: “The aim is to provide more UK-based services to the rail sector, coupled with that dovetailing into new markets. We already do work in the defence and commercial property markets, but our work in rail is our showcase and flag to wave to say this is us and this is what we can do.
“We are agile and having experience in the rail industry shows we can adapt to our customers’ limitations and the barriers that they have to manage. We are aware of those and if we can’t pre-empt then we can adapt to move in support of the challenges that they have. We are not fazed by that. It is almost normal for us – working in problematic environments is our bread and butter and where we excel.”
www.tate-group.co.uk/
Whether you are looking to upgrade your current HVAC system or install a new one, Tate Technical is committed to delivering superior quality and exceptional service
David Owen, the new Chief Executive Offi cer (CEO) at Rowe Hankins, discusses the organisation’s journey as a full solutions and services provider
Rowe Hankins is about to enter its 40th year with renewed vigour and a move to support the rail industry even more with a systems-based approach, an exciting transformation for an organisation already renowned all over the world for its innovative trainborne and trackside products and services.
“We’ve got that ability and flexibility to support customers even more,” explained CEO David Owen. “Our approach to any customer is for them to tell us what their headaches are and we’ll come up with a solution to fix it. We have a full range of catalogue products that are already specified around the world, moving forward it is about developing that to offer turnkey solutions.”
Rowe Hankins was established in 1986 as a specialist distributor and manufacturer of electromechanical components. It now has an impressive track record in the design and manufacturing of speed sensors, non-intrusive current monitoring devices, intelligent and sensory wheel flange lubrication systems, and AC and DC earth leakage detection units.
“We’ve gone from selling speed probes and circuit breakers into offering turnkey solutions, delivering something bigger and better to the industry and market in general,” added David. “We are looking at
Our approach to any customer is for them to tell us what their headaches are and we’ll come up with a solution to fix it
multiple solutions for different customers creating a
portfolio as a solution-based business, as opposed to just the hard and fast small components sell.
“An example is the recent successful deployment of overspeed protection on a light rail system in the UK. We’re looking to enhance that and move it across multiple systems. We also have a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) system that we’re tendering for at the moment, which is going to be a new product, a new solution into the market.”
Such is Rowe Hankins’ expertise that it can take an organisation’s concept of what it would like and turn it into a prototype, proof of concept, test and certify and then industrialise it, making it into a product that can be sold and certified into the rail sector. It is also proving a lifeline for those looking for obsolescent parts.
“We regularly get sent parts to be stripped down and examined to see what needs replacing and repairing,” explained David. “We can look at products fitted to trains 20 years ago and repair, maintain, upgrade and keep those bits of kit moving from an electrical basis. It can certainly prove much more cost effective than buying a new unit.”
Five years ago, the company became an Employee-Owned Trust (EOT), an initiative launched by the Government in 2014, in which all the employees of a company must be included in the arrangement,
and the trust must own more than 50 per cent of the company’s shares.
The family feel to the business hasn’t been lost since the change, in fact quite the opposite – it has just created a bigger family, all passionate to play their part in driving positive change not just for the business but for the wider rail industry.
David concluded: “We’ve got a very enthusiastic team of experienced engineers who are developing and passing on a wealth of knowledge to others on our apprenticeship program – it is a great mix. We’ve gone from 2D to 3D CAD modelling in minutes when it used to take days.
“The skillsets we’ve got are excellent and when you look at the capabilities and what we’re delivering as a business I’m very excited. Rowe Hankins is still going strongly after nearly 40 years and I see no reasons why we can’t continue to more than double the size of the business in the next five to seven years.
“We have the experience to develop software as a service with our growth encompassing the whole train in terms of communications, in terms of safety critical systems, all driven by the wealth of experience and knowledge that we have. We’re all invigorated and enjoying being part of this family business, making a positive difference to the rail industry.”
www.rowehankins.com
Robust protection for electrical networks and devices.
Helping to maintain service uptime across a variety of critical rail applications.
ABB’s Installation Products Division has a long legacy of providing quality products and innovative solutions. From safeguarding critical infrastructure on Earth to cable ties that help put machines in space, we continue to deliver solutions that provide a smarter, safer and more reliable flow of electricity from source to socket.
It is less than a month to go before the latest Rolling Stock Networking event, an exhibition focused on passenger and freight rolling stock, technical enhancements, depot equipment, ancillary services and the railway supply chain. Nigel Wordsworth looks ahead to what visitors attending can expect
The UK’s leading exhibition for the rolling-stock supply chain – Rolling Stock Networking 2025 (RSN2025) –will take place in Derby on Thursday 3 July.
The venue is Derby Arena, the international velodrome situated in Pride Park alongside Derby County’s football stadium. 151 exhibitors, a record number for this event, will fill the entire floor area inside the cycle track, attracting hundreds of visitors who wish to see all that is new in the sector and to learn about the latest developments from the standholders.
It is a popular event. Stand space for the 2025 event sold out only weeks after the 2024 exhibition
closed its doors, and its growing popularity attracts visitors from across the UK and even overseas.
Train manufacturers
At the top of the supply chain are the train manufacturers. They buy sub-assemblies and components from their direct suppliers, and those companies in turn buy from companies who make components and supply services. So having the train manufacturers present is important to the success of the exhibition.
And those manufacturers will be at RSN2025 in force. CAF and Stadler have taken stands on the exhibition floor and will have buyers on hand.
Procurement teams from Alstom and Hitachi Rail will be holding meetings in the ‘Meet the Buyer’ section of the show, and Siemens Mobility has confirmed that its purchasing officers will attend the show to meet with existing and potential suppliers on their stands. Rolling-stock leasing company Angel Trains will also attend the show, and train operator West Midlands Trains will take part in ‘Meet the Buyer’. Not forgetting freight – wagon manufacturer and maintainer WH Davis will also be attending.
Supply chain
The bulk of the show’s exhibitors will be drawn from the supply chain – companies manufacturing
everything from seats and carpets to lighting, doors and braking systems.
It is impossible to detail the exhibits that will be on display from all 151 exhibitors, or even mention then individually, but just a snapshot of a few will show the variety on show.
For a start, the venue will be hard to miss when approaching it as there will be a full-size shunting locomotive parked outside on a huge low-loader trailer. Positive Traction will be bringing its 08e shunter – a Class 08 diesel locomotive that has been converted, or rather upgraded, to battery operation.
The prototype loco looks very different from an original Class 08. The bonnet is lower, giving the driver a better view, and the tractive effort has been increased by over 28 per cent, making the new 08e more than capable of shunting loaded aggregate and other freight trains around yards and sidings. Heidelberg Cement has ordered the first production version for use at Whatley Quarry, Somerset, with delivery due during 2025.
Inside the venue, there are 151 stands to visit in six hours (9.30am until 3.30pm) – that’s 25 stands an hour or one every two minutes! Visitors will have a busy day.
As previously stated, there will be a huge variety of companies to meet. RSG Engineering will be displaying some of the machined components that the company has manufactured for the rail industry over the past 50 years. There will also be a chance to win a signed bottle of Tuilagin, made by rugby legend Fereti (Freddie) Tuilagi, who not only played international rugby union for Samoa but also rugby league for Halifax and St Helens, scoring a try in the latter’s victory in the 2000 Super League Grand Final.
Capitol (Industrial) Batteries will be showing its innovative battery solutions, using specialised batteries that are tailored to meet the unique needs of various railway applications, guaranteeing uninterrupted operation for every type of train.
Schaltbau will be there to explain what is new in the world of DC power, while Akriveia will have a True Heroes Racing Honda CBR1000RR-R Pirelli National Superstock race bike on its stand. There is a reason beyond it being an interesting vehicle, it features parts that were 3D-scanned and 3D-printed by Akriveia, showcasing the company’s cuttingedge 3D scanning, reverse engineering and additive
manufacturing capabilities.
Quantum Seating is an established manufacturer of seating and interior solutions for the transportation industry. Combining its extensive experience and proven capability for design, development and manufacture for rail, bus and tram, Quantum Seating is able to provide a variety of safety compliant seating and trim solutions, several of which will be on show at RSN. Foot-weary visitors might even get a chance to sit down (but please don’t outstay your welcome!).
Servac International Marine Technologies is an expert in vacuum toilets and CET (Controlled Emission Toilet) tanks, supplying spares, overhaul and repair for current and legacy train vacuum toilet systems, and providing diagnostic testing, maintenance and cleaning for rail wastewater systems with industry leading technology.
Using Roxtec seals helps avoid unplanned maintenance. They provide a flexible solution for cables, pipes, and conduits and have a proven history in the rolling stock industry. Roxtec penetration seals also offer protection against fire, smoke, water, and vibration, and provide excellent cable and pipe retention.
RazorSecure protects over 500 million passenger journeys across 23 fleets, focusing on cyber security and secure asset management and maintenance for rolling stock, signalling, and infrastructure. Providing intrusion detection, real-time analytics, autonomous threat response, and advanced firewalls,
The bulk of the show’s exhibitors will be drawn from the supply chain – companies manufacturing everything from seats and carpets to lighting, doors and braking systems
RazorSecure technology secures rail networks and address evolving threats.
Petards Rail prides itself on being an engineering centre of excellence for the provision of on train surveillance equipment including associated backoffice software. Its products include forward facing CCTV, pantograph monitoring, passenger counting, video analytics and the use of CCTV for drivercontrolled operations, correct-side door enablement and automatic selective door operations.
Expromet Group company Metaltech Precision has recently been certified to ISO 3834-2 and EN 15085 CL1 for its welding and fabrication capabilities. This milestone reinforces the company’s ability to deliver precision fabrications for defence, aerospace, and rail, as well as other industries where welding quality, safety, and compliance are critical.
This selection is just a taster for the variety of products and technologies that will be on show. The only way to discover all of them will be to visit and see for yourself.
Meet the Buyer
As previously mentioned, procurement teams from several train manufacturers and operators will be taking part in a ‘Meet the Buyer’ session, organised by Jobson James Rail – the rail insurance broker.
As well as Alstom, Hitachi Rail, West Midlands Trains and WH Davis, representatives from Wabtec Corporation, Yellow Rail, Loram, Buckland and Keolis Amey will also be taking part.
So too will Bill Smith, an international trade adviser from the Department of Business and Trade (DBT) who specialises in advanced manufacturing and rail. DBT supports businesses to invest, grow and export, creating jobs and opportunities across the country.
Bill will be able to connect delegates with the appropriate services and information that is available through DBT. He can also help in developing an Export Plan, guiding companies through the process as he has many years of exporting experience in rail and other highly regulated industries.
Co-located conference
Visitors to RSN2025 will be able to sit in on conference sessions on the mezzanine level, above the main exhibition floor. The conference will be organised by the Railway Industry Association in conjunction with sponsor Railnova, a technology company that provides both fleet and maintenance workflow software and telematics solutions to the railway industry. RSN delegates and exhibitors will be free to dip in and out as they please, taking in just one conference session or several.
Group, has chosen the subject of the decarbonisation of rail freight.
Rail freight also features in the next session as Mark Bridel, Senior Regional Freight Manager (Eastern) at Network Rail, joins Rail Innovations Director Greg Howell. Rail Innovations has been working with Network Rail for four years to develop a new generation of lineside remote condition monitoring system that will provide real-time and actionable reports using artificial intelligence to improve safety, service reliability and improve rolling stock maintenance.
The presentations conclude with Gareth Dennis, Strategy Lead for Test Tracks at Network Rail, who will explain Network Rail’s strategy for the future for its test tracks, which are used to test rolling stock as well as on-track plant and other equipment.
A second co-located event at RSN2025 will be the DeltaXD Digitisation Forum. Dedicated to solving the challenges of obsolescence, upgrade, and new build projects across the rolling stock and locomotive sectors, Delta XD’s end-to-end digitisation services cover the entire journey: from ultra-accurate scanning, measurement, and inspection data acquisition to the full realisation of production-ready Computer-Aided Design (CAD) outputs.
Procurement teams from several train manufacturers and operators will be taking part in a ‘Meet the Buyer’ session
Paul Baines, Director of Major Programmes at Siemens Mobility, will be speaking on the opportunities and risks of rail reform from a rolling stock manufacturer’s perspective. He will also highlight the work Siemens is undertaking to widen its UK supply chain footprint, and how businesses can benefit from this.
Francis Vander Ghinst, Sales Director at Railnova, will cover the topic of empowering rail operators with IOT (Internet of Things) and rolling stock data to improve fleet performance. He will be followed by Andrea Green, UK&I Business Development Director at Alstom, who will talk on the future of the railway from a supply chain perspective.
Applying machine learning models to railway condition data will be the topic for a group of three experts – Jordan Langfield, Fleet Engineer at Angel Trains, Steven Armstrong, Fleet Engineer at Grand Central and Anisa Mamaniyat, Director of Chrome Angel Solutions.
Paul Long, Head of Engineering for Freightliner
Through the use of cutting-edge large-area optical photogrammetry and high-resolution 3D scanning technologies — combined with decades of applied engineering expertise — DeltaXD is helping the rail industry to accelerate overhaul, upgrade, and modernisation programmes while significantly reducing project timeframes and costs.
The Forum includes a full and comprehensive programme of six presentations, coupled with opportunities to view the mini-expo area, where visitors can see the latest technologies in action.
So that’s what delegates and visitors to RSN2025 can expect to see and experience. As one exhibitor (Yellow Rail) said after the 2024 event: “The event was a great success, providing us with a superb opportunity to not only connect with fellow rail industry professionals but also engage with potential future customers and suppliers. Thank you Rolling Stock Networking for organising and hosting such a brilliant day.”
See you there!
Altin Staka, the Managing Director (MD) of Track Civil Engineering Solutions (TCES), discusses the completion of the Rutherglen drainage upgrade, and how the team’s expertise is going from strength to strength
If there’s one thing that can be said about TCES, it is that the team are up for a challenge. It is something instilled into the company by MD Altin Staka and something proven by the company’s recent work for Babcock on the Rutherglen Drainage Upgrade in Scotland.
Earlier this month the team worked into the night, successfully installing a 225mm cast iron complex bend water main connection, a key component of the wider infrastructure works.
“This was not a simple project, with a five-metre depth, and a 72-hour weekend shutdown during which we had to get the works installed, completed, reinstated and the road back open to traffic on the Monday morning,” explained Altin. “Among our work included carrying out the design for cantilever sheet pile wall and the engineering assurance. On the back of that we excavated and installed a cofferdam.”
What was particularly pleasing for Altin was the fact that TCES had the opportunity for early contractor involvement with the client, including in the feasibility study of the project in terms of its outline concept, design and integration.
“It has proven a really good showcase for our capabilities and with quite a few intricate aspects, I’m really proud of what has been achieved,” he added. “Overall, the project benefited from early contractor involvement and engagement on the design stage of it, with it all completed on time, on budget and to
everyone’s satisfaction.
“From day one it meant that despite the complexities, there had been no surprises and not too many unknowns, certainly not any that we couldn’t work together on to overcome. For TCES it has raised the profile of the company, showing the wider industry leaders that although we’re an SME, we’re capable of delivering complex, turnkey projects, particularly when involved in the design part of it. It has highlighted our strengths and capabilities.”
The project is the latest successful project for TCES, which also earlier this month carried out nondestructive excavation work in Grangemouth using its Vacuum Excavation unit. This allowed the company to expose underground services safely, reducing the risk of utility strikes, an example of the team applying practical innovation on site.
The company has recently marked its third birthday, having been set up by Altin building on his 22 years’ experience in the rail industry, starting as a general operative on site, site engineer and project manager, as well as having done two masters’ degrees, one in business administration and another in construction law.
With an ever-growing reputation of providing a unique service on various projects of the railway and construction industry, from track drainage, masonry, equipment foundations, and all side civils auxiliary
works to de-vegetation management, the business continues to grow each year, with Altin targeting 25-35 per cent increase in turnover each year.
“It is about doing things right and making sure the business grows organically and sustainably,” he added. “At TCES we take pride in getting the job done safely, efficiently, and to the highest standard, no matter the hour, which the Rutherglen Drainage Upgrade emphasised.
“But as I’ve said in the past, you’re only as good as the team you’ve got working for you, which I’m pleased to say at TCES is one which is fantastic and proactive, able to overcome challenges and deliver exceptional service.”
For that reason, the importance Altin places on his team and their involvement in the business will come as no shock. He is passionate to provide a platform to employ locals and down the line has an aspiration for the business to become an employeeowned one.
“I want to provide a platform for new and upcoming training engineers, surveyors and railway personnel to come to work for us,” he said. “In regards to the vision of it becoming an employee-owned business, I want those working here to be part of something bigger and an opportunity that they could own it themselves. Overall, it is an exciting journey ahead.”
Rock Rail’s Mark Swindell and Mike Kean discuss the organisation’s biggest project to date, and the importance of buying new trains
Since the commencement of rail privatisation in 1994 it could be a defining moment in UK rail when South Western Railway (SWR) services became the first to transfer back into public control, kicking off a total reset of the railways to improve performance and win back public trust, boosting economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.
Rock Rail is working with the newly nationalised SWR to transform passenger journeys with significantly increased train capacity and improved performance and quality. It is achieving this with its workers’ pension fund investors by investing more than £1 billion – its biggest investment to date – into 90 new Arterio rolling stock trains, 750 vehicles in total.
“It’s been a long journey, but we’re really proud of
what has been achieved and the impact the trains will have with a much-improved customer experience, alongside a step change in technology,” explained Mike Kean, UK Managing Director and Group Chief Operations Officer at Rock Rail.
“We’re at the point where the train is in place, it is at the right configuration for the operator and the passenger, and we’re going through driver training and rolling them out, seven to date and the rest rolled out in 2025/26.”
Mark Swindell, Founding Partner and Chief Executive Officer of Rock Rail, said: “We believe that these new trains will deliver a significant improvement in passenger revenue and demand, with passengers really seeing a different quality of a train journey going in and out of Waterloo. This will reduce Government subsidy of the railway.
“These trains are more reliable, more available, more comfortable with great amenities, and from now we will be tracking what the performance is going to be for revenue improvement, demand improvements and passenger satisfaction.”
Rock Rail hopes to build on the success it has seen with Greater Anglia rail operation, deploying Stadler Flirt electric multiple units Class 755 and 745.
“The fleet we deployed for Greater Anglia has been transformative and if you can change one thing in your railway the train is a really important thing to change because people spend 90 per cent of their time in the train,” said Mike.
Mark added: “The trains have made a significant difference in East Anglia, delivering a franchise that was low down in terms of performance on the list of franchises, to now being number one on all scales,
including demand.
“Our ongoing challenge for the industry is to get to a position as to how the UK Treasury supports the railway in future years, because at present the bulk of investment is down to taxpayer subsidy at a time when public experience of the railway is low.
“We have a strategy for changing the balance of investment away from the taxpayer providing the greatest subsidy where a new modern fleet of trains will support the increase in revenue at an intrinsic time as the railway transitions into public ownership.
“We want to bring to the market new innovative methods of financing new fleet, but also increasing and bring into fleet manufacturing and maintenance rigorous cost savings.
“I expect the new trains to deliver 30 per cent cost savings on maintenance compared to the old trains and with all the other benefits that come with it. But we want to track and monitor that progression to demonstrate this in the next year or two to really highlight the value and benefits that new trains bring to the market and ultimately the operational railway, despite the difficulties to deliver and the new technology.”
Looking back, the Rock Rail journey began when Mark turned 50. Bringing a 28-year career as a successful lawyer to an end, he and his wife invested their savings into creating Rock Group, putting infrastructure in place with private investors, institutional pension funds and insurance companies which wanted to allocate responsible investment money directly into assets that make a difference to people’s lives and transform communities. All as a part of the ‘circular economy’.
It hasn’t all been plain sailing – by Christmas 2015, Rock was almost out of money, but Mark persevered through investing all of his pension alongside remortgaging his house to cover staff wages. Fast forward to the present and the business has secured almost £3 billion of institutional investment into new passenger rolling stock for UK rail franchises, with seven fleets in the UK, and around €1 billion
for four fleets in Germany.
“One of the things that stops the railway growing is suppressed demand where the number of potential travellers cannot physically fit into the trains,” explained Mike. “We need to be bold and seize the opportunity to change that through increasing capacity with new trains which will be transformative, and as Mark touched on, both the South Western Railway and Greater Anglia trains are great examples of this through lower cost trains that drive very cheap maintenance and stable lease rates over time.
“Looking to the future, what is particularly exciting is the development around battery technology. Original equipment manufacturers are proposing advanced battery technology which is very interesting, looking at how you use it, adapt to it, and what risks private finance should take. We are tracking three or four battery projects in Germany, and there are potentially one or two in the UK.
“Although electrification is the right decarbonisation solution, the problem with it is that parts of it such as junctions and stations are expensive. Batteries in trains can fill the difficult bits and crucially as part of a more integrated solution. In Germany, battery trains are being delivered now so we’re closing bids that will probably deliver a train in the next three years.
“Our good news is that in the UK we have prequalified for three opportunities, and we are actively bidding those at present. My estimate would be that they will be closing in 2026, with trains looking to be delivered in the early 2030s. The big challenge for the railway is that we have an abundance of diesel trains which have been a great service to the country, but you’re not going to replace them with pure diesel, hybrids are needed.”
The UK has a very strong platform to build on when it comes to designing and manufacturing new rolling stock. Investments have been made by the likes of Siemens in East Yorkshire, Hitachi in Newton Aycliffe, Alstom in Derby and CAF in Newport. These companies will be a useful backbone for the future.
We have an opportunity to build a very strong manufacturing base for rolling stock that will drive the cost of trains down, as well as provide greater value for money for taxpayers and passengers
These trains are more reliable, more available, more comfortable with great amenities and from now we will be tracking what the performance is going to be for revenue improvement, demand improvements and passenger satisfaction
“We have an opportunity to build a very strong manufacturing base for rolling stock that will drive the cost of trains down, as well as provide greater value for money for taxpayers and passengers,” said Mark. “But we want to see that growth delivered and if we lose our nerve and have a repeat of the ‘boom and bust’ type cycle of not buying trains for the next few years then those factories will become redundant.
“That is not a threat, it is reality because you can’t keep people employed with no work and with that scenario local communities decline. Back to the circular economy! It is important that the procurements continue to buy from these new works and they are successfully delivered into circulation.
“There are currently three significant procurements ongoing at present, Southeastern, TransPennine Express and Northern, with two having the prospect of using battery technology.
“Having built the business around a privatised railway I am positive about the nationalisation of franchises. I thought the privatised model had done a good job for 20 years, but it was a steady state railway with the separation of track and train causing structural issues, while the rolling stock has got older and older. Now, as part of the nationalisation cycle there is the real opportunity to invest back into the railways to make them great again.”
“In Rock Group we have two types of investors –equity and debt – which take different risks within the project. Both pools of investment come from local pensions, mainly municipal, with 70 per cent from within the UK. Back to that circular economy theme!
“Take the Greater Anglia fleet for example. Investment from Aviva based in Norwich, to provide trains that serve the people who live or work in the area,” added Mike. “There is a circle of investing directly into what impacts members.”
Mark added: “People go to work, get paid with a proportion of their pension investing in the assets and are getting the benefit of the investment doing good for them, but also giving them a return when they retire. It is a prime example of our circular economy concept, circulating around the UK to make it a better place to live and work and also at the same time protecting the pension funds.”
Both Mike and Mark are buoyed by Government reforms set to be introduced through the Pension Schemes Bill, which will mean all multi-employer Defined Contribution pension schemes and Local Government Pension Scheme pools operating at a megafund level, managing at least £25 billion in assets by 2030.
Evidence from Australia and Canada shows that this size allows pension funds to invest in big infrastructure projects and private businesses, boosting the economy while potentially driving higher returns for savers.
These changes will drive more investment directly into the UK economy for new homes and promising scale-up businesses, with over £50 billion secured through the recent voluntary commitment from pension funds to invest five per cent of assets in the UK and new local investment targets for Local Government Pension Scheme authorities.
Reflecting on how the percentage investment on infrastructure from this has changed over the years,
Mark said: “It was two per cent in infrastructure when I first started Rock, and has moved to five per cent in recent years, and now moving to 10 per cent of the £250 billion capable of being invested into infrastructure. Our job is to find those routes for that investment and in ensuring that we make the railways an investible proposition.
“What pension fund investors require is good governance, being looked after, kept informed on the asset and able to see directly into the asset. They are good partners for the UK Government in investing in the railways, but they do need vehicles that are there to help them guide their way through the relationship of Government and themselves, and that is where we play to our strength.
“At the moment we’re trying to demonstrate that there is another way to an asset financed rolling stock company model, whereas the traditional three ROSCOs in my view are a historical kickback to the old franchisee model of bidding.”
Mark says that is particularly important as Great British Railways (GBR) is introduced, the single ‘directing mind’ bringing track and train together, which aims to put passengers and customers first, alongside rebuilding trust in the railway and operating the majority of passenger services under public ownership and control.
“We’re pleased about GBR and supportive of what they are trying to achieve, which is a long-term vision for the railways, one that we can help finance, support and deliver,” he added.
Mike said: “GBR gives us optimism because it is going to bring together a strategic view of the railway that probably hasn’t existed. It is going to bring the ability to influence track and train at the same time and not go through the frustrations of having a separate operator and Network Rail.
“I envisage that GBR is going to need lots of investment, and we have a model which works, is aligned with what they want, and can deliver good value for money.”
Looking to the future, Mark hopes the Government will be ambitious, confident that decarbonisation is going to pull more people into public transport and move people away from the car. He said: “We are encouraged by the fact that the UK Treasury is now examining the typical models of investment that we use, which has to be a good thing.
“We need to make sure trains are more reliable and there is more capacity. I hope the Government shows ambition as we’ve got to make the railway a far better place than it has been. More needs to be invested to save more, and to build demand back onto the railway and embrace new technologies at the same time.
“It’s an opportunity for a real revolution and transformation of the railway. South Western Railway is an opportunity to show the impact of change and I’d like to think within a year or two we will have a lot of happy passengers saying very positive things about their railway!
“The project with SWR also emphasises our ethos to give the benefit of infrastructure finance, not take advantages of short-term inflation and interest rates. We’re in it for the long term, with sustainable finance and a very professional relationship with GBR.”
With
Railway 200 well under way, Phil
Crow,
Professional
Services Director at Mercury3 Consult, refl ects on a 40-year career and how his team is shaping the future of rail
s the industry celebrates the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, Mercury3 Consult stands at the forefront of shaping its future.
Backed by decades of expertise across rail operations, programme management, digital signalling and heritage railways, Mercury3 Consult is uniquely positioned to provide expert consulting for any project – whether it’s modernising today’s network or preserving rail heritage for future generations.
At the helm of the company’s Professional Services team is Phil Crow, a senior leader with more than 40 years of experience leading transformative change programmes, from station operations to digital innovations, all aimed at improving the experience for millions of passengers.
“Like many people in rail, myself and many of our team at Mercury3 Consult have taken various routes into the industry,” he said. “With Railway 200 aiming to inspire the next generation by inviting young people from all backgrounds to consider a career in rail, we’ve encouraged our team to share their own stories and routes into rail to help engage and encourage future talent.”
For Phil, the journey began in 1984. “British Rail was seen as a job for life – little did I know that it would turn out to be exactly that,” he joked, adding that he worked his way up from Youth Training Scheme to Head of Retail on the East Coast Main Line. “The best thing about this industry are the people who contribute to delivering for the passenger. Working with dedicated professionals and – of course, the customers – has always been my motivation.”
Phil then served as Station Manager for Newcastle and later as Area Station Business Manager in the North East, during which he led teams that delivered award-winning performance. This success culminated in three Station of the Year awards, with judges commenting, “it’s hard to see how station operations could be managed any better”. His career also included senior roles with First Group, Tyne & Wear Metro, and GTR Thameslink, before he joined Mercury3 Consult in 2021.
The future of rail
Today, Phil leads a team of consultants at Mercury3 Consult, delivering expert services on some of the UK’s largest infrastructure programmes, including the Transpennine Route Upgrade.
“We’re incredibly proud to be consulting on rail’s most exciting and important projects. Our consultants excel in driving forward innovation, embracing new technologies to enhance operational
efficiency, passenger experience, and safety across the network,” he explained.
Ahead of the creation of Great British Railways (GBR), Phil envisions the opportunity for greater collaboration across the industry. “I look forward to seeing the introduction of GBR and the planned unification of track and train. Digital technology, smarter ways of working, and greater collaboration are all vital.”
He also highlights the generational shift taking place. “With many long-serving experts retiring and Gen Z entering the workforce, the challenge is to retain knowledge while embracing new skills, technologies and working cultures,” he said. “At Mercury3 Consult, we’re perfectly positioned to support clients through this transition.”
Celebrating Railway 200 and preserving heritage rail
As part of Railway 200, Mercury3 Consult is deeply committed to honouring the past, present, and future of rail.
“As well as sharing our own stories and future predictions, our team plans to volunteer with a heritage railway this year,” said Phil. Additionally, Managing Director Trevor Marshall is supporting the National Railway Museum’s Great Hall’s Turntable Roads Project, which is part of the museum’s 50th
anniversary and Railway 200 celebrations.
Meanwhile, its Heritage Rail Consultant, Norman Hugill, is involved with the testing for the Locomotion Project, which aims to recreate the historic journey from Shildon to Stockton that took place 200 years ago in September 1825.
Why Mercury3 Consult? Trusted experts for complex rail projects
Mercury3 Consult brings together a team of industry leaders with hands-on experience, strategic insight, and a shared passion for rail. From programme and project management to business transformation and technical services, the company provides tailored support to help transport and infrastructure clients succeed in a changing landscape.
Phil added: “We’re proud to honour rail’s past while preparing for what’s ahead. What sets Mercury3 Consult apart is our ability to combine decades of on-the-ground operational experience with a forward-thinking approach. We understand what works, and we know how to implement change at scale without ever compromising service or safety.
“As rail enters the next 200 years, Mercury3 Consult is ready to help you navigate change, deliver complex projects, and provide expertise that spans both the legacy and future of the industry.”
www.m3consult.co.uk
Tom Krause, Director at Krause and Hall, discusses the challenges of succeeding within a demanding, everchanging industry
Times are hard for those working in the supply chain in the UK rail industry. Uncertainty and a lack of projects coming to the market are common issues coming up time and time again when speaking to organisations including Krause and Hall.
The specialists in the provision of railway electrification services ranging from consultancy through to installation and maintenance services are riding the wave, building strategic relationships with new clients and providing labour for those projects that are under way.
But there is so much more that the organisation can offer evidenced by its recent full turnkey overhead line equipment build from foundation installation through to the commissioning of the Bletchley project, delivered on time and accident-free.
It was Krause and Hall’s biggest project in its 18-year history, contracted by principal contractor Taylor Woodrow as a specialist supplier, in helping in the redevelopment of the depot for West Midlands Trains. This will become the principal maintenance base for the operator’s new Class 730 electric fleet and servicing location for diesel units operating on the Marston Vale and East West Rail routes.
“Our work on Bletchley has given us a good name and opened people’s eyes to what we’re capable of delivering,” said Tom. “It’s led to lots of good conversations and the building of strategic relationships with new clients. Despite it being a difficult time for the industry, we are in demand for our expertise and seeing some encouraging signs and we are ready to react.”
Since the company’s formation in 2007, Krause
Despite it being a difficult time for the industry, we are in demand for our expertise. We are seeing some encouraging signs and are ready to react
and Hall has established itself as a trusted supplier for its client base, offering flexible and valued working relationships. The company strives to develop close, lasting, collaborative relationships with clients, which in turn allows the business to realise its own growth through successful and safe delivery.
In recent months it has been supporting longstanding client Nottingham Express Transit and has carried out renewals on the trolley bus system at the Black Country Living Museum, as well as labour and plant supply across multiple projects –evidence of its flexibility in reacting and supporting customers when needed.
Krause and Hall has several other projects in the pipeline including work on the electrification of a test road at a manufacturing facility in the UK.
“Other jobs at the minute include supporting clients on everything from traction bonding to discreet structure renewals nationwide, as well as labour and safety critical supply, On-Track Plant fitters and maintenance services and hire only on our machines,” he said. “It all highlights the diversity of our business and the fact our name is out there as a trusted partner.”
Krause and Hall has a proven record in the industry and can provide experienced management, delivery systems and delivery teams to enable its clients’ requirements to be met. It is fully RISQS accredited, holding the required RISQS IMR, OHL and POS/ OTP modules as well as being Construction Line Gold accredited.
www.krauseandhall.com
David O’Connor, Managing Director of Greenway Rail
and Power, explains how the organisation’s expertise and attention to detail and transparency have contributed to important upgrades on the South Wales Metro and Core Valley Lines
Wales’ Core Valley Lines are being upgraded into a modern, greener integrated public transport system as part of the South Wales Metro Project. Greenway Rail and Power has played an important role in its completion with the electrification of 170km of track for Transport for Wales (TfW).
The organisation excels when it comes to jointing, testing, cable installation, tag and trace and asset management, adhering to strict railway standards, and to the even stricter deadlines in getting the work done safely and efficiently.
In the case of the ongoing work for TfW, Greenway Rail and Power has been deploying cable, testing and jointing teams, with the client also benefiting from the company’s electronic reporting system giving direct response and reports after the completion of works or surveys.
Specific activities carried out over the previous two years include cable install on trackside and within tunnels using a full suite of methods (hand-powered winches and RRVs), cable jointing together with sheath testing and pressure testing on completion of PES (permanent earth sections), along with endto-end substation feeds.
Greenway Rail and Power’s High Voltage (HV) Competent Persons were deployed to ensure safety when working within 1m of HV assets.
“We get a great deal of satisfaction from working on major projects such as this one in Wales because it is one that will impact so many lives, it is so vital
in connecting communities and environmental credentials,” explained David.
“It is a flagship project and one where every day there have been different challenges in which we have had to be agile, particularly given that we have been working on a live railway.”
Alongside its electronic reporting system, Greenway Rail and Power carries out official test data produced on site with photographic evidence, giving the client pinpoint accuracy of where work is being carried out.
“It is all about transparency and it is good to show exactly what we’ve done, where it is and the information is produced and available almost immediately,” added David. “That level of detail is something that is important to us.
“As an example, if we were jointing a cable then the full information about the joint, who carried out the work, the location, reference number and photographic evidence of the particular asset would be available to the client instantly.
“We also use trackers alongside the evidence, which keeps the client updated on the progress of the project.”
Greenway Rail and Power is one of a few companies that combine OLE activities with HV cable jointing and with the experience of working to strict time restraints associated with working within isolations and possessions.
David said: “Our ambition for the future is to secure further work on more OLE electrification programmes.
It is a flagship project and one where every day there have been different challenges in which we have had to be agile, particularly given that we have been working on a live railway
“The key objective for all our activities is safety, making sure all our personnel are invested in, and comfortable with, the tasks they carry out.
“I’d sum up our business philosophy in four words: Deliver Safely Every Time.” david@greenwayrp.co.uk 07534 969174 www.greenwayrp.co.uk/
we’re with you every step of the way
RSSB. Accelerating the adoption of new technology
Rail organisations often face challenges in adopting new technologies due to costs and associated risks. At RSSB, we’re transforming these challenges into opportunities through innovative solutions to complex issues.
We are enhancing safety through advanced risk management and boosting efficiency with optimised asset utilisation and data-driven insights.
Furthermore, we are driving progress towards a sustainable railway.
And we’re looking ahead to prepare the industry for the future. By leveraging technology, we’re ready to tackle emerging risks and paving the way for a safer, more efficient rail system.
Explore how our initiatives are driving adoption of technology across the railway: www.rssb.co.uk/adoptingtechnology
Image: Michael Lazenby
The River Tees, which enters the North Sea some miles downstream from Middlesbrough, has played a vital role in the movement of goods both in and out for more than two centuries.
The Tees Navigation Company was created in 1808 as a response to the emerging industrialisation of the lower Tees valley. This year marks the 200th anniversary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway and Stockton was the first port on the river, though facilities soon moved further downstream to Middlesbrough on the opposite bank.
With both local coal and nearby limestone the Middlesbrough area eventually came to produce one-third of the UK’s iron, and later steel, and export of these led to further expansion of port facilities. The growth of the chemicals industry at Wilton also called for increased port capacity.
The modern Tees Dock officially opened in 1963, growing steadily over the following years and gradually consolidating smaller port operations upriver. The construction of a new quay and terminal soon followed, enabling Cleveland Potash to
export from the port.
At this date, the port handled mainly steel and fertilisers from the likes of British Steel and ICI, but by the mid-1960s it had become one of the UK’s first ports to offer container shipping services.
The 1980s saw the decline of the local heavy industries, with inevitable consequences for Tees Dock. Steel manufacturing in the region ended in 2015 with the closure of Redcar steelworks, while the decline of the chemicals industry at Wilton has been piecemeal, spanning a number of years.
Compensating for this loss of traffic, increasing containerised import volumes came from emerging markets such as China.
In 1995, Powell Duffryn Plc (Ports & Engineering Group) acquired complete control of Tees Dock, followed by a renaming as PD Ports and a name change for the port to Teesport. There are now nine berths plus three roll-on roll-off quays and a further four upriver near Middlesbrough. Berths 1, 2 and 3 are the former steel berths.
PD Ports is now responsible for ensuring that the River Tees continues to be navigable for commercial
shipping, with a 15.4m deep water channel that progressively reduces to 4.5m east of Billingham Beck, eight nautical miles from the entrance.
PD Ports also has facilities elsewhere in the UK that can be split into three regions – North: Billingham, Hartlepool; Humber: Groveport, Howden, Immingham, Keadby; South: Felixstowe, Isle of Wight, Thames. Of these, only Hartlepool on the opposite bank of the Tees and Teesport is rail linked.
The Teesport facility links to Network Rail by a west-facing connection at Grangetown Junction 1.45miles (2.3km) to the east of South Bank station on the Saltburn line. Most trains then head for their destination, while others stable in Tees New Yard, west of Middlesbrough. Empty wagons returning to the mine at Boulby reverse direction at Grangetown in order to head east.
Containers are now the principal traffic and Teesport typically handles 600,000 TEUs annually, where TEU stands for ‘twenty-foot equivalent unit’, 20 feet being the standard size container.
Globally, there are feeder services from Asia, China, the USA, Rotterdam and the Baltic bringing
loaded containers. The volume of inbound traffic exceeds exports but new agricultural and construction products are exported, while old commercial vehicles are shipped to Africa.
PD Ports emphasises the use of rail transport as part of Teesport’s green agenda and its intermodal rail terminal has scheduled services as follows:
Destination Operator Frequency/week
Grangemouth DB Cargo Three Mossend DB Cargo Six Euroterminal
Coatbridge Direct Rail Services Weekly Manchester Direct Rail Services Five Felixstowe/ Freightliner Five Doncaster/ Daventry Direct Rail Services Six
The Mossend service is to the former DB Cargo facility, now operated by Maritime, and it is timed to directly link to P&O and CLdN Ferry Services from Zeebrugge. Trains are made up to 14 wagons, though PD Ports would like to increase this to 16.
The Felixstowe service facilitates onward distribution to East Anglia and the south east. Both the Coatbridge and Daventry services are run for Tesco and the latter calls at Doncaster to unload containers for the Goole area.
The Manchester service has been long in the planning and is multi-user. It began on 3 February and is a joint venture with DRS, operating as a 12-week trial using low-profile IDA wagons that can carry bigger containers. A Government Modal Shift Revenue Support grant that is paid to encourage a switch from road to rail was awarded but, despite this, the trial ended on 11 April. The results of the trial are being evaluated.
PD Ports is confident that there is sufficient potential traffic to make the train viable but the problem is persuading customers to switch from road. Cost factors are the determinant for customers, overriding green issues, while Government policy on road vehicle fuel duty tilts costs against rail.
Potash from the nearby Boulby mine is shipped overseas through the port’s bulk berth terminal. Volumes vary, dependant on production at the mine, but four Freightliner-worked trains daily is a typical throughput as part of a round-the-clock operation. Each train carries a payload of around 1,000 tonnes.
Imported gypsum is moved on a weekly basis to New Biggin, Cumbria for plasterboard manufacture, with 1,800 tonnes of gypsum per train conveyed. Freightliner is also the train operator.
The bulk terminal also handles grain and out-ofgauge cargos. PD Ports hires three ex-BR Class 08 shunters from RMS Locotec Ltd for train movements within the bulk terminal and moving intermodal wagons around the port.
Teesport aspires to cement its place as the North’s leading rail hub for global imports and exports. The company says its management of the port’s rail freight offering can be combined with added-value services to provide a simple and centralised process, all with one single point of contact. It can offer bespoke services and places much emphasis on the environmental benefits of rail over road.
Teesport traffic on 14 March 2025 (excludes potash traffic)
23.54 Tees New Yard – Tees Dock BSC Export Berth
00.22 South Bank Tees Dock – Daventry Tesco
04.26 Tees Dock BSC Export Berth –Grangemouth TDC
18.30 Felixstowe North FLT – Tees Dock FLT
09.31 Tees Dock FLT – Felixstowe North FLT
04.09 Trafford Park Euroterminal – South Bank
Tees Dock (Tesco)
13.30 Tees Yard Down Stagings – South Bank
Tees Dock
09.00 Mossend Euroterminal – Tees Dock BSC Export Berth
17.25 South Bank Tees Dock (Tesco) – Trafford Park Euroterminal
16.50 Tees Dock BSC Export Berth – Tees New Yard
18.20 Doncaster Iport – South Bank Tees Dock (Tesco
21.43 South Bank Tees Dock – New Biggin
16.45 Grangemouth TDC – Tees Dock BSC Export Berth.
Justin Wong, Head of Prisons and Social Value at Elite Project Services, explains how the organisation is changing lives and opening pathways into sustainable employment in the rail sector
Elite Project Services continues to lead in delivering high-impact rail training with measurable social value outcomes across both industry and custodial settings.
Alongside our NSAR-accredited training portfolio, we are proud to be delivering a four-week Rail and Civils Infrastructure Programme at HMP Highdown, which includes Personal Track Safety (PTS) AC & DCCR training.
This initiative supports rehabilitation by equipping individuals with industry-recognised skills that improve post-release employment prospects and reduce reoffending, directly aligning with the social value model themes of tackling economic inequality and improving health and wellbeing.
We are also pleased to report a key success at HMP Hollesley Bay, where six delegates recently passed their PTS AC qualification. This milestone reflects the power of collaboration between prison staff and Elite Project Services in delivering training that changes lives and opens pathways into sustainable employment in the rail sector.
Beyond custodial settings, we are helping to drive
workforce development and social mobility across the wider industry. Six of our primary sponsored staff have recently completed their COSS Initial and SSSTS qualifications and have been signed off from post-mentoring. Again this represents inclusive progression routes within our workforce. We have also supported a valued client by delivering PTMP 16 Safe Use of Track Trolley Equipment on-site, helping upskill teams and expand their operational competencies.
Additionally, we delivered PTS AC & DCCR and track induction training to a communityfocused client supporting under-represented groups into rail careers across London and the South East, an initiative strongly aligned with social value goals of inclusive recruitment and levelling up opportunity.
Through these programmes, Elite Project Services continues to play an active role in supporting Tier 1-3 contractors in meeting their social value commitments by embedding meaningful, measurable impact across training and workforce development.
https://eliteprojectservices.com/
This milestone reflects the power of collaboration between prison staff and Elite Project Services in delivering training that changes lives and opens pathways into sustainable employment
in
the rail sector
UNLOCK THE POWER OF SPECIFICALLY TRAINED, FULLY MANAGED AND COMPETENT PROJECT TEAMS, SEAMLESSLY INTRODUCED TO YOUR PROJECT WITH JUST AN INDUCTION REQUIRED.
WE CAN PROVIDE
PROJET MANAGERS
PROJECT ENGINEERS
TEAM LEADERS
SENIOR TECHNICIANS
TECHNICIANS
SEMI-SKILLED TECHNICIANS
SUPPORT STAFF
HSQE SPECIALISTS
Mark Meyrick, Director and Founder at FirstClass Safety and Control, explains more about its depot protection and control systems and how the systems are in demand in the UK and beyond
ark Meyrick has no doubts that the decision to go worldwide with FirstClass Safety and Control during Brexit probably saved the business. Since that decision, the specialist in industrial automation control and safety systems has gone from strength to strength, now working in Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East and Egypt.
“Brexit affected us more than COVID and it could have finished the business had we not decided to go and find some new markets out there,” said the organisation’s Director and Founder. “It was an educated gamble because I knew the potential market, and it has paid off. We self-funded everything and have done everything ourselves, and I’m really proud of what has been achieved.”
Having worked for Beck & Pollitzer for 17 years, Mark welcomed the opportunity to start his own business when he undertook a management buy-out of the control system division to form FirstClass Safety and Control in 2017.
“Brexit was a real challenge for us, as we were a 100 per cent UK-based company that did all our work in the UK rail sector. So in 2019 we made the decision to look further afield for business, targeting markets we felt had the best potential for safety-related solutions, such as Australia and the Middle East,” he explained.
FirstClass Safety and Control works to reduce risk in the depot environment with its cutting-edge systems and procedures developed with workforce safety in mind, ensuring that rail vehicles can be moved in a safe and controlled manner.
These solutions include the market’s first RFIDbased Depot Protection System (DPS), which provides an alternative to outdated key exchange technology; and its Depot Protection System/Depot Control System (DPCS) that removes interfaces between train movements and employee safety –which in turn reduces uncertainty.
“Following the decision to look at markets beyond the UK, we set up a relationship with Freightquip, a specialist freight company dealing with maintenance depots in Australia,” said Mark. “It became our local installer and our local sales and marketing arm of the business in that part of the world.
“We also started working for Etihad Rail. We were commissioned to design, manufacture and install our DPS at its freight operations and maintenance facility in Al Faya in Abu Dhabi. We were delighted
to bring our extensive knowledge and experience in designing safety systems for rail depots to the Middle East market.”
Outside the UK, the success has gone from one project in Melbourne to six in New Zealand and Australia, two projects for Etihad Rail, and work with Siemens on phase 1 of the Egypt High Speed Rail project.
“We’ve had massive plaudits for the work we’ve done for Kiwi Rail and our work for Siemens on the Sydney Metro led to the opportunity working for them on the Egypt High Speed Rail project,” Mark added.
“A key to our success has been the ability to adapt our offering and expertise to what the clients want, tailoring our solutions to suit a depot’s unique
operational requirements. These are not substandard systems that you can buy off the shelf, they sometimes have to be designed to the requirements of the clients.
“At FirstClass we’ve got a great team of engineers who love to put on their thinking caps and come up with solutions to challenges. I was an engineer before and I still stick my two penneth in sometimes. Once an engineer, always an engineer.”
Particularly important is that rather than supply a standard solution expecting a depot to adapt, the organisation sees the importance of visiting sites, speaking to employees, gaining an understanding of on-site processes, and developing a system that meets the client’s needs while complying with local regulations.
A recent example of this was in the enhancement of the safety of Transport for Wales’ (TfW) Canton Depot. FirstClass was commissioned to design, manufacture and install its flagship DPS along with points control, driver destination boards, and driver location information boards using its DCS combined to provide a Depot Protection Control System.
The depot, on the outskirts of Cardiff, has been enhanced and upgraded to accommodate a fleet of 35 Stadler FLIRT DMUs. Eleven of the trains are diesel-powered and operate on South Wales Metro services, with the remaining 24 tri-mode diesel/ electric/battery units.
The SIL 2 (independently verified) RFID-based DPCS has been installed across all 11 roads in the depot, replacing the current obsolete systems. The system includes derailers, points machines, log on/ off facilities, aspects, warning beacons and sounders and interlocking with the depot doors, shore supplies, lifting jacks, mobile battery chargers, hoists, UFC and wheel lathe.
A SCADA supervisory terminal with historical logs and movement control provides protection for personnel, vehicles and assets inside the depot building.
“It was quite fantastic what we achieved taking into account the complexities, interfaces and interlocks, and we have a very happy customer,” Mark said. “It is a great example of how our equipment works for what customers want and need. Such has been the success we’ve picked up two further projects with TfW, which
is great as it shows they see our worth and like how we do things.”
The future looks bright for FirstClass, with the appointment of its first full-time sales engineer, and potential opportunities in other foreign markets. Whatever happens, Mark is determined that safety will remain at the forefront of business, evidenced by the fact all of the systems are designed to meet the required safety integrity level (SIL) accreditation.
The company manufactures both hardware-based and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)-based systems using integrated intelligent devices that cater for every requirement. In addition, its professional after-sales customer care team offer a full-service, ensuring prompt support if needed.
“We keep looking at what we are providing, listening to customers and making sure we offer what they need, what would help make their depots safer, and what would enhance the operational safety they have within depots,” Mark explained.
“We will continue to maximise our cross-industry knowledge, which gives us the expertise to find innovative affordable safety protection and control system solutions for all our customers.
“Overall, it is also about looking at how we can grow further, playing our role in ensuring customers have more confidence that they are operating in a safe manner, and have got a system behind it that works.”
www.firstclass-safety-control.co.uk/
A key to our success has been the ability to adapt our offering and expertise to what the clients want, tailoring our solutions to suit a depot’s unique operational requirements
RIA is celebrating its 150th anniversary, marking the occasion by commemorating its past and refl ecting on the journey of rail, with a special networking reception and after party
RIA is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of rail in the UK. To honour these historic milestones, it will next month be commemorating its past and reflecting on the journey of rail, with a special RIA 150 Celebration.
The event will take place on Thursday 10 July, from 6pm at The Garden Vauxhall in London, with rail industry professionals invited to attend to engage with key stakeholders and other members of the dynamic rail supply chain in a relaxed setting.
“RIA’s 150th anniversary is a major landmark in the organisation’s proud history,” said RIA Chief Executive Darren Caplan. “I would like to pay tribute to all the supplier companies that have made up RIA’s membership going right back to 1875, working with the association to champion the collective interests of a dynamic rail supply sector.
“In this 150th year of RIA we have planned an exciting programme of activities and events, to both celebrate RIA’s heritage but also to anticipate the next evolution of UK rail – itself celebrating an amazing 200 years – and RIA’s history within it.”
Commenting on the RIA 150 Celebration, Darren added: “This occasion will provide a lively celebration of the vibrant past of rail as well as its promising future. We recognise and would like to reflect on the strong partnership between the history of rail and our association, where our innovative members have been the driving force for change and transformation for a century and a half.
“As attendees gather at this reception, we will celebrate and cherish the shared passion and collaboration that has propelled the rail industry over the past 150 years and hopefully many more in the future.”
I would like to pay tribute to all the supplier companies that have made up RIA’s membership going right back to 1875, working with the association to champion the collective interests of a dynamic rail supply sector
Founded in 1875, RIA was originally known as the Locomotive Manufacturers’ Association and was set up to protect the interest of locomotive builders. In 1957 the association expanded to include smaller companies in the supply chain and changed its name to the Locomotive & Allied Manufacturers Association. Then in 1971 it became RIA and has since evolved into the organisation it is today.
As well as celebrating a fascinating legacy, RIA has also been running a Future of Rail series, which continues to include a programme of interactive events, held across the UK leading and shaping some of the national discussions on the future of the rail sector.
Andy Lord, Commissioner for Transport for London (TfL), said “Congratulations to RIA on its 150th anniversary of supporting and advocating for the railway industry. TfL’s supply chain reaches all four corners of the country, and we wouldn’t be able to move people around our capital city without the tireless work across our supply chain.
“Nearly a third of our supply chain activity and economic benefit is felt outside London. RIA supports TfL to connect further with partners in the rail industry and I look forward to continuing our strong working relationship in the years to come.”
Each ticket to the RIA 150 Celebration, which is a flagship event in the RIA 2025 calendar and also part of the Railway 200 celebrations, includes all of your food and drink for the evening, as well as a ticket to the after party which will be held next door to the venue.
Gleeds is Platinum Sponsor and Nextec Engineering is Silver Sponsor. Official Partner is Railway 200, Charity Partner is Railway Children, Media Partner is Rail Business Daily, and Partner is Railway Museum.
Visit http://www.riagb.org.uk/RIA150
D e v e l o p e d f o r r e g u l a t e d i n d u s t r i e s .
T r a n s p a r e n t , a u d i t a b l e a n d b u i l t f o r a s s u r a n c e .
L e a r n m o r e a t i n f r a m a t i c . a i
Disrupting decades of tradition, scaffolding and formwork pioneer Pilosio has launched FLYDECK into the UK rail sector – a game-changing system designed for speed, safety, and smarter infrastructure maintenance. Rachel Young and Francesca Fuser explain how it’s raising the bar
Pilosio is introducing innovation into the temporary works sector and redefining suspended access with the UK debut of FLYDECK. Used extensively across Europe, FLYDECK is a next-generation modular platform engineered for bridge, viaduct, and overhead maintenance. Designed to meet the complex demands of maintaining new and legacy rail infrastructure, FLYDECK offers a faster, lighter, and safer alternative to traditional scaffolding.
At its core, FLYDECK is a suspended, modular platform that assembles rapidly via its unique FLYRAIL guides. This allows operators to always work safely from a suspended platform. Compared to conventional systems, FLYDECK installs up to 30 per cent faster and slashes materials and transport needs by as much as 40 per cent.
“It saves on time, money, manpower, and offers significant flexibility in its modularity to address complex infrastructure and build a platform for works to be safely performed,” said Rachel Young, UK Rail Business Development Manager. “This underslung platform can be deployed from virtually any point and extended in any direction, all while avoiding disruption to rail or road traffic.”
The Pilosio FLYDECK launch in the UK has been aligned with Rail Safety Week, with FLYDECK keen to show the safety benefits of the solution, as well as the benefits to manual handling risk with the lightweight nature of the product and the simple modular approach to deployment build.
“Scaffolding hasn’t evolved significantly for
decades. FLYDECK offers the industry an innovative approach, developed from years of experience and successful deployment across Europe, the Middle East and the Americas,” said Global Business Development Manager Francesca Fuser.
“It’s built from the ground up with installers and users in mind, using materials and design choices that also consider environmental impact. It fully complies with all European and UK standards for temporary works. This is what modern scaffolding should look like.”
FLYDECK’s aluminium beams – available in 25cm or 45cm profiles – are fully reversible and compatible with both U-mounted and tube-mounted decks. With lengths up to six metres, the system connects via two spigots and eight spring pins, enabling quick, intuitive, and secure assembly.
The FLYRAIL system is where the real innovation happens: it improves safety during work at height activities, increases productivity, and allows the platform to seamlessly span over obstacles like piers and caps, continuing through spans without the need for additional ground support, unlocking new possibilities in even the most constrained and complex environments.
“Our railway infrastructure is ageing, and maintenance demands are rising,” Rachel added. “FLYDECK was built for complexity –steep embankments, listed structures, awkward geometries. Its lightweight, agile design helps minimise the loads imposed on ageing assets and structures with a lower load-bearing capacity; and
improved productivity offers further value, making it ideal for tackling these challenges head-on.”
This innovation didn’t happen in a vacuum – it’s the result of a lifetime of scaffolding experience.
The owner of Pilosio, Nereo Parisotto, a veteran scaffolder, designed FLYDECK to meet the real-world demands of installation teams and maintenance crews alike.
FLYDECK - designed by a scaffolder, for scaffolders!
Founded in 1961 in Italy, Pilosio has long been a trusted name in scaffolding, formwork, and shoring systems for the construction, infrastructure, and industrial sectors. The FLYDECK system was recently showcased at Rail Live in the UK with JMAC Group, and the UK-based team, headed up by Francesca Fuser, continue to engage with project leaders to demonstrate its potential.
“Everything is designed and manufactured in Italy – no outsourcing, no compromises,” Francesca explained. “We’re in full control of the quality, the process, and the materials. That’s how we deliver a product that doesn’t just meet expectations, it sets a new benchmark.”
With FLYDECK, Pilosio isn’t just building platforms. It’s building the future of rail maintenance – safer, smarter, and infinitely more efficient.
https://pilosio.com/en/
To register an interest or enquire further; Rachel Young ( UK Rail BDM ) R.young@pilosio.co.uk and s.roachford@pilosio.co.uk (UK Sales Manager)
Providing civil engineering products and services, with expertise in foundations and piling to the Rail, Civils, Energy, Residential and Water sectors
With over 20 years of Rail and Construction industry experience, our familyrun company provides expert advice and cost-effective solutions to all sectors looking for experts that they can rely on. Delivering safe and sustainable solutions at the forefront of innovation and technology, ensuring the highest quality results first time, every time. We can assist clients from advisory and design to compliance and delivery, providing tailor-made solutions to meet clients’ needs.
Installation of all Piled foundation - bored, driven & screw piles
Erection and installation of OHL Gantry structures (masts, booms)
RED, LOC and DNO foundations and platform installations (GI, Design & Install)
Platform renewals and refurbishments
Cess walkways and throughing routes
Fencing and Access stairways
Site compound establishment and access road
Trial Holes
Excavation and installation of concrete bases
Embankment stabilisation & Cess retention
De-vegetation
Piling and Soil nails
Rabbit Netting
Gabian Walls
Steve Jasper, the new Chair of Pre Metro Operations Ltd, discusses the success of the Stourbridge Shuttle and exciting plans for the future
“B
e ambitious, break the mould, take a chance and do it cheaply.” That is the message from Steve Jasper, Chair of Pre Metro Operations Ltd (PMOL).
The company’s pride and joy is the Stourbridge Shuttle, which has welcomed 7.5 million passengers through its doors. This is testament, Steve adds, to the affordability and manifold benefits of integrating a convenient light rail solution into daily lives.
But he believes the operator, which has a 99.6 per cent reliability record on its eco-friendly Class 139 railcars, can offer so much more. Among the priorities for the new Chair is to move forward plans for the Dudley Dasher, which would provide greater connectivity between Stourbridge and Brierley Hill. This is a project that is claimed could be done cheaper and quicker than plans for a metro.
“The main road between Brierley Hill and Stourbridge is almost continually in gridlock so as well as the benefits to people using the service, it would also bring with it fantastic environmental and local economic benefits,” said Steve. “We’d be doing it with new, modern, carbon-friendly rolling stock serving several stopping places along the route.
“We could provide an alternative to the extremely expensive Midland Metro extension, and something that could be completed within three years and at a fraction of the cost. We could also potentially extend it further to Merry Hill retail centre and all the way to Dudley to link with the new interchange.”
Steve added: “I’ve always advocated that you can evolve a corridor, and you don’t always have to go from nothing to a huge, costly project. Begin with a cheaper option, and then if demand justifies it, upscale it at a later stage.
“We’re making the right noises in the right places and just need the decision-makers to get behind the plans, we need less consultant’s corridor studies and more delivery.”
Steve has been on the organisation’s Board for 16 years and he took over as Chair in April from Geoff Lusher, who stepped down after 12 years, although he is continuing to provide advice and guidance.
“I follow in big footsteps after everything that Geoff has achieved,” Steve said. “I’m a Black Country lad born and bred, know the area and people, and live five minutes away from our operating base.”
Steve has had a long and distinguished career managing the bus services operated by the former WMPTE and then at West Midlands Travel Ltd. A hands-on manager, he at one stage simultaneously held a bus driver’s licence and a coach driver’s licence, and was able to drive the railcar at Stourbridge.
“I’ve been involved in public transport since 1979
and have always been passionate about it and the benefits it can bring,” he said. “You see that on a daily basis in the West Midlands with the amount of traffic congestion.
“In regard to the PMOL the business model, the timetabling, the frequency, and the punctuality works perfectly. We just need to get the message out there to an industry that does not welcome change easily.
“Also important to us is ensuring we provide excellent customer service and that we are an integral part of the community, supporting local events and charities.”
Among Steve’s priorities as Chair are to strengthen the company’s links with the West Midlands local authorities, local politicians and businesses, and fellow transport providers.
The Board agreed that continuing to have former Chair Geoff on the Board of Directors ensures that the company will carry on providing high-quality and efficient passenger services at Stourbridge, and also continue to develop the potential of onward journeys to Brierley Hill, Dudley, and other locations.
“The priority is to move forward the Brierley Hill project, but there are also a number of other projects through the country which we feel would lend themselves to ultra-light rail,” Steve said. “Several places could quite easily and quite quickly introduce light rail services at a fraction of the cost of reinstating traditional systems.
“I’m excited about what the future holds. We’ve been working with TDI and Eversholt on the Revolution very light rail vehicle, test driving that and providing drivers for marketing days. We’re looking at the developments in rolling stock with interest with a view to hopefully using them to Brierley Hill initially and then further afield!”
We could provide an alternative to the extremely expensive Midland Metro extension, and something that could be completed within three years and at a fraction of the cost
The eighth annual Women in Rail Awards has taken place, with 14 awards presented celebrating both individual excellence and collaborative initiatives
More than 800 professionals from across the UK rail industry attended the Roundhouse, Camden, London, for the eighth Women in Rail Awards, to enjoy an evening of celebration, inspiration and recognition.
The event honours individuals and organisations who have made outstanding contributions to improving gender balance, diversity, and inclusion within the rail sector. It was hosted by Gail Porter, featuring moving stories, exceptional achievements, and a powerful sense of unity.
Among the speakers was Laura Shoaf, Chair of Shadow Great British Railways, who described it as a “huge privilege to witness firsthand some of the incredible inspiring stories from women and from men across the sector”.
“We are here, we are listening, and we do not need to wait for Great British Railways (GBR) to be established to bring the changes that we want to see,” she said. “It is the people in the room, the colleagues who can’t be with us, who will define the future of the railways and what a tremendous privilege that is.”
Addressing those in attendance, Laura asked people to do three things: take note of how many women are in teams, leadership positions, and their experiences; try to hire women into jobs at every level and ensure they are on recruitment panels; and support each other.
“I care about making things better for people
and I know that is what drives every single person in this room,” she added. “We should be pleased with the visible progress but our work here is not done, with recent figures finding that 16 per cent of the workforce in the rail industry is female, five per cent in senior positions, and that reduces to one per cent at executive level.”
Prior to Laura’s keynote address, guests were treated to a champagne reception, serenaded to their seats by the Southeastern TRAX Choir, and listened to a welcome address from the Chair of Women in Rail, Marie Daly.
Marie, who is also Chief Operations Officer at Transport for Wales, said: “Since taking on the role of Chair 18 months ago, I’ve seen our industry undergo significant transformation. With the introduction of the Railways Bill to enable the formation of GBR, we are entering a defining period for rail. Women in Rail stands ready to support industry leaders in shaping strategies that foster inclusive cultures, deliver equity, and help our industry grow.
“Guided by our purpose, to ensure leaders create environments where women are supported and can thrive every day throughout their careers, we remain focused on improving gender balance, championing diversity and embedding best practice.
“Our mission is to be unapologetic in our pursuit of gender equity in the rail industry. Through our business and engagement plans, and by amplifying
the voices of our members, we are driving real change. You can all play a part in this journey – together we can do more.”
At the event a total of 14 awards were presented, celebrating both individual excellence and collaborative initiatives that are shaping a more inclusive future for the rail industry.
The judging panel, made up of senior leaders from across the sector, faced the difficult task of selecting winners from a record number of entries – a testament to the incredible work being done across the network. The judges specifically requested that all nominees be commended for their hard work, selfless dedication and commitment, and that a huge thank you be extended to all those who were nominated for this year’s Women in Rail Awards.
Marie added: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank and celebrate all the nominated individuals and companies, all truly inspirational in their own right, whose passion and determination will continue to drive forward the progress and changes needed to improve the gender balance across the sector.
“Thanks must also go to our 2025 sponsors, the Women in Rail members, volunteers, trustees and regional teams for their collective contributions, and of course to everyone who attended the event.”
The organisation and delivery of the event was made possible through the expert support of Nimble Media. Women in Rail has also extended a heartfelt
gratitude to all the 2025 awards sponsors, whose generous support made this event possible.
Headline Sponsor: London North Eastern Railway Limited.
Category Sponsors: BAM, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) Limited, Greater Anglia, Hitachi Rail, KeolisAmey Docklands, Morson Group, MTR Elizabeth Line, Transport UK, c2c and London Northwestern & West Midlands Railways. Drink & Wine Sponsor: BTTC.
Table Decoration Sponsor: Avanti West Coast. Fundraising Sponsor: East Midlands Railway. Gift Bag Sponsor: Alstom UK & Ireland.
Best Training or Development Programme Award – Finance Strategy & Development Team, Group Finance, Network Rail.
Best Training or Development Programme Award – Unipart.
Social Value Award – Siemens Mobility Limited UKI.
Employer of the Year Award – TransPennine Express.
Best Network Group Driving Gender Equity and Intersectionality Award – Inspire, Network Rail.
The Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Team Award – South Western Railway.
The Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Individual Award – Annabelle Pryce, Customer and Community Engagement Manager, KeolisAmey Metrolink.
The Female Apprentice of the Year Award – Lucy Lighbown,
Sustainability Apprentice, TransPennine Express.
Female Rising Star of the Year Award – Katie Roberts, Design Engineer, Siemens Mobility.
Male Ally of the Year Award – Oliver Gant, HR, Communications and ESG Director, Arriva Rail London.
Inspirational Frontline Woman of the Year Award – Susannah Carroll, Train Driver, Transport for Wales.
Inspirational Woman of the Year – Ellie Burrows, Regional Managing Director, Eastern, Network Rail.
The Adeline Ginn Unsung Hero Award – Caitriona O’Brien, Safety Improvement Specialist, Network Rail.
The Adeline Ginn Lifetime Achievement Award – Alison Thompson, Infrastructure Management Director, Amey.
0113 277 4548
ROMIC’s Robert and Mary Coleman, and Simon Lowe discuss the procurement and sale of new, used, and overhauled/remanufactured locomotives and rolling stock
The next consignment of High Speed Trains (HSTs) is on its way to Mexico from the UK – bought, prepared, and transported by road before making its journey across the ocean to South America.
What sounds like a logistical nightmare is just another day at the office for the team at ROMIC, which has spent the past four decades becoming experts in the global procurement and sale of railway locomotives and rolling stock.
“This is a business that we’ve created and financed ourselves, with no private investors,” reflected Founder and Chair Robert Coleman. “Right now, we’re incredibly busy both domestically and internationally with some great opportunities, thanks to the platform and relationships we’ve built over the last 40 years.”
His wife, Finance Director Mary Coleman, adds: “Looking back, there’s a real sense of pride in what we’ve created, and the global network of suppliers and contacts we’ve established. Organisations
come to us first because they trust us. With Robert’s knowledge of the rail industry, they know that if he can’t find it, he’ll know someone who can. That reputation is our greatest achievement – alongside growing from just the two of us at a kitchen table to the team we have now.”
After serving in the military, Robert’s early career took him to the oil fields of Libya, selling equipment and parts. When oil prices collapsed, he transitioned to rail, recognising that many of the components in diesel-electric locomotives – engines, alternators, compressors, traction motors, and control systems –were similar to those used in drilling rigs.
ROMIC quickly became a leading European supplier of GE and EMD locomotive parts. The next natural step was supplying entire locomotives, beginning in the early 1990s with a deal to deliver five locomotives from the Norfolk Southern Railroad to Gabon. Since then, the company has expanded to
offer locomotive and rolling stock consultancy, sales, refurbishment, parts, and new builds – operating on a truly global scale.
Director of Sales and Marketing Simon Lowe highlighted how ROMIC’s domestic presence has grown: “Historically, our work has been international, but over the past three to four years the UK side of the business has developed significantly, especially with HST exports. That’s where the ROMIC name has become more recognised in the UK, and it’s a huge growth area for us.”
ROMIC is now the trusted partner of many rolling stock companies for asset disposal. “They want their old stock off the books,” Simon explained “Scrapping yields little return and often carries negative connotations when those assets still have life left. We help maximise value through resale, while managing the complex logistics –domestic movement, preparation, export, customs
handling, in-country commissioning, training, parts, warranties, and more.”
Mary summed it up simply: “Yard to port to final destination – and everything in between.”
Global reach
ROMIC has exported UK rolling stock across the globe, from South Africa and South America to mainland Europe.
Simon explained: “Every project is different, but our strength lies in understanding the client’s needs – technical specifications, limitations such as axle loading and loading gauge – and finding the right solution from what’s available globally. We modify as needed and manage the full logistics chain.”
In the UK, ROMIC is expanding its hire fleet of Mk3 coaches and has recently acquired two Class 20s that began public service last month. The company also continues to support exported HSTs with parts.
Challenges, relationships, and trust
International logistics are never simple, and the recent export to Mexico is a testament to the team’s coordination and resilience. “The complexity of each order is huge,” Robert said, “but we have a fantastic team and a highly experienced Managing Director Kevin Fisher, who has a logistics background. From the outside, people think we just ship rolling stock but like an iceberg, most of the work is below the surface.”
ROMIC’s global success is built on long-standing relationships and trust. “We always work with local agents on the ground,” Robert added. “In Mexico, we’ve partnered with a new rolling stock manufacturer, complementing their business. These kinds of partnerships, nurtured over time, are key to our success. We’re problem solvers, and we tackle challenges head-on, professionally, and fast.”
Building the future
Looking ahead, ROMIC is well positioned. There’s a healthy stream of UK orders for the coming year, and potentially another HST shipment later this year. The team is also working to grow its UK hire fleet to provide steady income during quieter export periods.
A key development is ROMIC’s plan to manufacture new locomotives for niche orders. Discussions are under way with world-leading engine manufacturers to deliver more efficient, lower-emission locomotives, including Tier 4/EU Stage V-compliant diesel, Biodiesel/HVO, dual-fuel (diesel and LNG/CNG), and even hydrogen-powered options.
“In the next 12 months, we’d like to see ROMICbranded locomotives running on the main line, either in rental or charter service,” said Simon. “We also want to deepen relationships with UK rolling stock companies, becoming their go-to for end-oflease sales. Internationally, we’re progressing with repowering and life extension projects and looking to establish some manufacturing processes and supply chains.”
Staying on track
Robert sees a bright future: “We’re not looking to compete with leasing companies. Our goal is spot hire, offering locomotives for freight operators, charter companies, and short-to-medium term needs. If we can continue to grow that business alongside our international operations, we’re in a strong position.”
And as for retirement?
“I’ve thought about it,” Robert admitted, “but why stop doing something I love? With the great team we now have in place, I’m taking a more strategic leadership role as we continue to drive ROMIC – and our impact on global railways – forward.”
ROMIC will be attending Rolling Stock Networking (RSN) in Derby on July 3. Meet the team at stand D2.
ROMIC will be at RSN on 3 July, at Derby Arena, Stand D2. www.romicgroup.com sales@romic.co.uk
There’s a real sense of pride in what we’ve created, and the global network of suppliers and contacts we’ve established
The Chancellor has said that working people in cities and towns from Sunderland to Solihull will benefi t from the biggest investment in regional transport, as every part of the country prospers under Plan for Change
The Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced £15.6 billion of funding for local transport projects in England’s city regions – including South Yorkshire, the North East, the East Midlands and Tees Valley.
The funding – which has been described as a more than double real-terms increase in capital spending on local transport in city regions by 2029/30 compared with 2024/25 – aims to empower local leaders to invest in transport projects that will make a difference to their local area.
Reacting, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, said: “The announcement marks a watershed moment on our journey to improving transport across the North and Midlands – opening up access to jobs, growing the economy and driving up quality of life as we deliver our Plan for Change.
“For too long, people in the North and Midlands have been locked out of the investment they deserve. With £15.6 billion of Government investment, we’re giving local leaders the means to drive cities, towns and communities forward, investing in Britain’s renewal so you and your family are better off.”
The investment will see projects like the Metro extension linking Washington to Newcastle and Sunderland and the renewal of South Yorkshire’s tram network linking employment and housing areas in Sheffield and Rotheram get off the ground.
The five-year settlements will mean the Mayor of West Yorkshire can commit to delivering the West Yorkshire Mass Transit, which will be fully integrated with cycling, walking, bus and rail, making journeys quicker, more accessible and more reliable across the region.
The funding will also mean the Mayor of the West Midlands can build a metro extension to Birmingham’s sports quarter, making a start on his ambitions to deliver mass transit from East Birmingham to North Solihull.
It will also allow the Mayor of Greater Manchester to transform the Metrolink tram network, with new stops in Bury, north Manchester and Oldham and a Metrolink extension to Stockport town centre.
Henri Murison, Chief Executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, said: “This Government’s decision to back major local transport projects with serious, long-term investment will be critical to driving regional growth. The economic revival of Greater Manchester, enabled by sustained investment in the tram network in particular, has already begun to close
For too long, people in the North and Midlands have been locked out of the investment they deserve
the productivity gap with London.
“To build on that success and replicate it across all our regions in the North, we need to see key projects delivered – including the extension of the Metro to Washington, the replacement of the Sheffield tram fleet, and the extension of Metrolink to Stockport.
“Too many times in the past, a trade-off was made – due to limited funding – between connectivity within and between our regions. The spending rules adopted last autumn mean this Government can invest in both at the same time, unlocking far greater productivity gains than prioritising one at the expense of the other.”
The Chancellor has also announced “a step change in how Government approaches and evaluates the case for investing in regions” following a review of the Treasury’s Green Book and how it is used, “to make sure that this Government gives every region a fair hearing when it comes to investments”.
Darren Caplan, Railway Industry Association (RIA) Chief Executive, said: “RIA and our members welcomes all investment in rail infrastructure, which benefits not just the industry but also supports increased economic growth and connectivity in every nation and region of the UK more widely, supporting jobs, GVA and Treasury revenues.
“So we welcome the commitment by Chancellor Rachel Reeves to change funding rules to ensure the Government “gives every region a fair hearing when it comes to investments”, as this benefits both the rail network and railway suppliers who build, renew and enhance rail – whether track or train related – all around the country.
“RIA and our members have been working closely with combined authorities, mayors, and regional transport bodies on their regional rail plans in recent years, and will of course continue to do so in the future. We now look forward to details of how the proposed local transport investments announced today will align with Network Rail and other rail clients’ work programmes in the nations and regions of the UK, in the months and years ahead.”
Chela is launching a range of plant-derived multi-application cleaning detergents. Sales Director Tony Philippou explains more
Chela Ltd is launching a full range of industrial detergents that are predominantly 100 per cent plantbased. Its Pure range covers all facets of cleaning across rail, including trains, depots, facilities and stations.
“This is an opportunity for customers to eradicate petroleum-based cleaners from their supply chains, and it doesn’t come at a cost to performance,” explained Tony Philippou, who is responsible for all mass transport, winterisation-related business for the UK/Europe at Chela.
It has long been the Chela team’s ambition for the UK rail industry not to be reliant on petroleum-based sources in its detergents, transitioning its clients to more sustainable sources of chemicals that don’t impact the quality of cleanliness. There is a CO2 saving of 123 kilos of CO2 for every 1,000 litres of biomass occurred, with Pure products generating a CO2 saving of 0.12kg per litre used.
“Most traditional chemicals start their life in gas or oil form,” said Tony. “Our Pure range starts in biomass so it is completely sustainable and efficient.
“There is a bit of a misconception that plant-based solutions don’t work, or when some people hear the word green they think it will come as a consequence to performance. This isn’t the case with our Pure range, which covers every facet of cleaning and also has independent 4-Rail approval for train operators.”
Part of the Fisher Darville Group, Chela was established in 1988 and is a leading UK manufacturer of high-performance industrial cleaning chemicals, particularly in the rail industry, where Chela’s detergents will have been used to make the majority
of trains in the UK safe and clean.
Some travellers on the London Underground have already experienced the positive impact of the Pure range, with PureClean being initially rolled out across exteriors in the capital city over the past year – the first time the work has been carried out using 100 per cent plant-based products.
“PureClean was the first product in the range which we took to the market 12 months ago,” said Tony. “Since then it has predominantly been used for cleaning the outside of buses and trains and over that time we’ve been getting requests about whether we have a similar product for glass cleaning, toilet
cleaning and sanitisers.
“Such has been the level of interest, we’ve created an entire range so we can fully eradicate petroleumbased solutions from our supply chain. It has been 12 months in the making, being able to go from the lab work, product trials, and coming up with solutions that actually work, which are now ready for the industry.”
With global distribution, Chela’s UK-based state-of-the-art research laboratories specialise in developing innovative technical solutions to specialist cleaning requirements.
As part of its service, it has an experienced team available to offer both practical and technical expert advice and guidance, with an in-house laboratory for comprehensive material testing in addition to dedicated teams offering training, aftersales service and structured cleaning scheduled to improve productivity and efficiency for customers.
Tony added: “Our PureClean product has been really well received so I’m delighted to finally be able to launch the full range to the rail industry. We have a fabulous new brochure and have got a full marketing plan which is being rolled out.
“What we’ve launched ticks all the boxes for every facet of cleaning, from cleaning a train to a urinal, and provides a platform for clients to move away from petroleum-based chemicals to plant-based solutions. What’s not to like when the rail industry is looking to be as green and sustainable as it can be.”
Chela is ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accredited.
+44 (0)208 8052150
TPhilippou@chela.co.uk
www.chela.co.uk
Board game trains and a marriage carriage, in her latest quarterly column Daisy Chapman-Chamberlain explores how the industry can think bigger to create exhilarating journeys for all
What is the function of a railway? At the most basic level, it is to move people and goods from point A to point B. But does that basic definition fit the modern railway, and is it limiting us?
It is essential that rail meets this central function, but rail can be so much more than that; from Community Rail Partnerships to Pride trains, rail serves vital cultural and social functions, connecting us not just to locations but to each other, to our heritage, and to the future.
When we think of heritage, we often think of steam railways – which are wonderful hubs of both preservation and entertainment – but heritage goes deeper than rolling stock. A superb recent example comes from Lithuania, where a Pink Soup Train can carry passengers to the Pink Soup Festival.
Honouring Lithuania’s pink Šaltibarš iai soup, which is made of beetroot, one of the train’s carriages has undergone a radical pink makeover, including beetroot and soup stickers throughout. With around 40,000 attendees expected at the festival, the train not only celebrates local cultural identity, but is a clever revenue move for the train operator.
A similar British equivalent might be a cream tea train trip, usually reserved for steam trains, combining one of Britain’s most classic meals with the charm of a railway journey. Perhaps we can learn from Lithuania’s blushing example to bring elements of British culinary heritage to our main line services.
Britain is no stranger to special/event services, from trains to festivals and sporting events, or Santa Specials, but other nations take the concept even further. In Germany, for example, the Techno Train runs twice a year, offering a seven-hour party onboard a train where three carriages are transformed into dance rooms with DJs and bars. After all, leisure travel is the most common reason to travel by train in Britain, so we must continue to grow that market by offering contemporary, compelling experiences. From wild to cosy, here are my top suggestions for attracting new passengers:
Britain is a nation of dog lovers, with 13.5 million households (36 per cent) owning a dog. At the conductor’s discretion regarding furry passengers, I suggest a dog train (think corgis and dachshunds) for like-minded pet owners to take their fluffy companions to the countryside or seaside. Services that encourage getting
outdoors for walks and hiking, such as the Yorkshire Dales Explorer and other excellent community rail offers, are already very popular and could provide some great existing routes. The branding opportunities are infinite too!
According to auctioneer Barnebys, sales of antiques are up by 32 per cent in the UK, with millennial buyers particularly motivated to shop in an eco-friendly way. As rail is one of the most eco-friendly ways to travel, combining train use with a station flea market or antiques fair is a natural fit.
If they can do it in Germany, why not have music services in Britain? The UK has one of the largest and most successful music industries anywhere
in the world; we can celebrate both our heritage and our evolving culture with station and onboard performances, while simultaneously supporting new and emerging local artists.
Main line cream tea trains are an obvious win, also fish and chips services to the seaside (Avanti recently offered an onboard fish and chips special in honour of National Fish and Chips Day), and any number of culinary and holiday combinations (nothing too pungent, however). Meals could be served onboard or, in the absence of catering, sold as ‘bento boxes’ in stations prior to boarding. Britain’s passengers relish unique catering options: the enduring popularity of Great Western Railway’s Pullman Dining service is proof of that.
We can offer comfortable, regular services as well as thrilling, engaging experiences, celebrating the best of British heritage and the excitement of the rail-led future to come
Experiences by rail don’t have to be limited to extroverted options – reading onboard a train as the countryside slips by is one of life’s great pleasures. A specific reading club train, in a branded, designated and quiet carriage, offers passengers the chance to unwind and relax. The service could also be twinned with shared book boxes/mini libraries at various railway stations. Another quieter offer comes in the form of a board game train. Bring your own board game (or borrow one from a railway station board game mini library perhaps?) and set up at a table onboard. Board games are rapidly growing in popularity in Britain; research by Businesscoot outlined that the UK board game market will grow by over 10 per cent from 20202026 with the market predicted to grow to a value of £148.9m by 2027 – perhaps a Great British Railways’ branded board game should be on the future merchandising cards?
Finally, celebrating love by rail! Weddings/ partnerships do happen on trains – Avanti set up a special Marriage Carriage for Jane Magnet and Laura Dale who wed on board a Euston to Birmingham service in 2021, for example. Why not offer this as a bookable, premium service on (very) selected services?
Some of these ideas are decidedly tongue-incheek, but the fact is that rail holds vast creative and experiential potential. The exhilaration of a train journey doesn’t need to be limited to (often) only children – we can offer comfortable, regular services as well as thrilling, engaging experiences celebrating the best of British heritage and the excitement of the rail-led future to come.
About the author: Daisy Chapman-Chamberlain is Specification Manager at Transport for the North. She focuses on improving transport systems, accessibility, safety and beyond. She is also the Chairperson of the Oxfordshire Community Rail Partnership. Daisy can be reached via LinkedIn.
500+ supply chain companies, endless opportunities. For rail suppliers, buyers, and investors.
A global leader in electrification and automation technology, ABB is working to build a more sustainable future. Gb-contact.centre@abb.com https://global.abb/group/en 07808 2582000
Acorel is specialized in real-time solutions for automatic people counting based on most accurate technologies for passenger flow analysis since 1989. phil.linnecor@acorel.com https://acorel.com/en/home/ 01376 324825
Andromeda is an award-winning multidisciplinary rail engineering company, specialising in Overhead Line Equipment design, Mechanical and Electrical design, Signalling design and engineering consultancy. info@andromeda-global.com www.andromeda-global.com 01514 273802
CrossTech offer AI software for breakthrough transport safety and efficiency, with proven solutions for the world’s most demanding transport systems. hello@crosstech.co.uk www.crosstech.co.uk 07796 600458
A Welsh manufacturing firm with products used in major international projects including the Riyadh Metro Line 1 & 2 in Saudi Arabia. sales@flamgard.co.uk https://flamgard.halton.com/ 01495 757347
Abloy UK are the UK’s leading experts on high quality security and door locking functionality. info@abloy.co.uk www.abloy.com/gb/en 01902 364500
AmcoGiffen provides an unrivalled range of civil engineering and infrastructure expertise across the transport, energy and environmental sectors. info@amcogiffen.co.uk www.amcogiffen.co.uk 01226 243413
The Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation (BCIMO) is a not-for-profit Research and Technology Organisation (RTO) established to oversee the launch and operation of the Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre (VLRNIC). www.bcimo.co.uk 07769 586893
Offering a 30+ year track record working in the PA/policy environment and recognised specialist in Holyrood and Westminster public affairs. devinscobieconsulting@yahoo.com 07900 397872
Forte Engineering Ltd are the UK’s trusted partner for electrical and mechanical, telecoms and design engineering expertise for any project on the railway. info@forte-engineering.co.uk www.forte-engineering.co.uk 01412 120836
Glacier Energy delivers innovative solutions for the design, manufacture, inspection and repair of critical infrastructure and process equipment for energy and industrial markets. washington@glacierenergy.com www.glacierenergy.com 01912 673312
Ibstock is leading the way when it comes to the manufacture of very low embodied carbon pre-cast concrete products for the rail industry. sales@andertonconcrete.co.uk www.andertonconcrete.co.uk 03332 343434
Inflect Partners is a business transformation and strategic communications consultancy, providing the capacity and support businesses need to embrace change and meet future challenges. hello@inflect.co.uk www.inflect.co.uk
JBP is an award-winning global, national and regional PR, marketing and public affairs consultancy. www.jbp.co.uk 02032 670074
Jobson James Rail is a national specialist railway insurance broker, the market leader in the UK by a huge margin with over 1,000+ rail clients across the UK, Middle East and Australasia. keven.parker@jjrail.co.uk www.jjrail.co.uk 07816 283949
Leading engineering and construction company Laing O’Rourke supports clients across the UK, Middle East, and Australia, to deliver a range of cutting-edge buildings and infrastructure projects. www.laingorourke.com 01322 296200
We are able to offer services that cover a remit from an overhaul and service, to design and development across a spectrum of products and services. sales@grinstyrail.co.uk www.grinstyrail.co.uk 01527 514151
IKOS is a European engineering consultancy, specialising in rail. Founded in 2005, it now operates across 25 offices and 13 countries. contact@ikosconsulting.com www.ikosconsulting.com 07495 058052
WorkfloPlus digitises rail operational workflows –streamline maintenance checks, enhance workforce training, and ensure compliance with real-time, tracksideready solutions for safer, smarter rail operations. hello@intoware.com www.intoware.com 0115 977 8969
Family-run and privately owned, Jewers Doors Limited specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of industrial doors. sales@jewersdoors.co.uk www.jewersdoors.co.uk 01767 317090
Kilborn Consulting Ltd is a rail engineering consultancy and design company. It specialises in design of new and altered railway signalling systems for UK infrastructure. pmcsharry@kilbornconsulting.co.uk www.kilbornconsulting.co.uk 01933 279909
LML Products manufactures copper components for the rail industry, including busbars, terminal lugs, and braided connectors. sales@lmlproducts.co.uk www.lmlproducts.co.uk 01249 810000
Operating as a principal contractor, Lowery Ltd (which is part of the wider Lowery Group) delivers signalling, telecoms, DC, high voltage and low voltage electrical installations, and track and civil engineering works. www.lowery.co.uk 01784 247955
The Maine Group is a talent consultancy that is empowering people and businesses to become exceptional. info@themainegroup.co.uk www.themainegroup.co.uk 02077 347341
Millgate Ltd is guided by a simple mission – to provide tech services, products, and solutions that actually work for clients. info@millgate.co.uk www.millgate.co.uk 01142 27310
PA Consulting is a different kind of consulting firm – one with innovation and transformation at its heart. sophie.woodward@paconsulting.com www.paconsulting.com 01763 267574
We are a technology company specialising in rail and connected transport solutions. hello@resonate.tech www.resonate.tech 01332 869800
Delivering acoustic, thermal and fire solutions for rolling stock that are tailor-made to suit the client whilst meeting strict legislative demands. sales.sspl@siderise.com www.siderise.com/products/rail 01473 827695
LP Brussels is an integrated communications company, specialising in public affairs and public relations. info@lpbrussels.com www.lpbrussels.com
MERMEC has been a reliable and innovative developer of high-tech solutions for the railway and steel industries for over 30 years. andy.willetts@mermecgroup.com www.mermecgroup.com 07944 264803
Natural Cement supplies UK rail industry projects for companies including Network Rail and London Underground. We are RISQS Approved to supply rail industry infrastructure projects. enquiries@naturalcement.co.uk www.naturalcement.co.uk 01226 381133
RADD Solutions Limited develop bespoke web, desktop and mobile solutions, provide established solutions, and offer support for new and existing software solutions. info@raddsolutions.co.uk www.raddsolutions.co.uk 07812490246
Ridge and Partners LLP has an industry-leading trackrecord for delivering infrastructure projects and services within the UK and worldwide. chaworth@ridge.co.uk www.ridge.co.uk 02075 933400
S and L Roberts (Railway Consulting) Ltd is dedicated to making the railway system safer, high performing and cost effective. steve@sandlrobertsrailwayconsultingltd.com www.sandlrobertsrailwayconsultingltd.com
TÜV Rheinland UK Ltd helps manufacturers, maintainers and operators through the legal requirements to be able to run on the UK and European railway network. www.tuv.com
The University of Nottingham is a member of the UK’s prestigious Russell Group of leading universities and ranked eighth in the UK for research power. www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/research.aspx
The UK’s largest hot dip galvanizing organisation, providing a highly-effective corrosion prevention treatment that creates long-lasting protection for any type of steelwork. info@wggltd.co.uk www.wedge-galv.co.uk 01902 601944
Window Seater enables people to connect to the world outside their train window. It is an app for mindful travel and compelling, high quality audio storytelling. www.windowseater.com
Zebraware’s vision is to revolutionise the rail industry by building and implementing software that empowers expert engineers. enquiries@zebraware.com www.zebraware.com
Unipart Rail are experts in Supply Chain and Technology & Product Solutions for the Rail Industry. enquiries@unipartrail.com www.unipartrail.com 01270 847600
Vertex Systems Engineering is a leading engineering consultancy firm. Clients include Transport for London, Atkins, Crossrail, Kier, Network Rail, RailCorp, Serco, Siemens and more. enquiries@vertex-se.com www.vertex-se.com 01189 255462
We create visuals that illustrate our clients’ thinking. Marketing materials that can be used to train or motivate staff, or to educate and influence customers. will@willbaxter.com www.willbaxter.com 07815 056026
Withers & Rogers is one of Europe’s largest dedicated intellectual property law firms, our clients include renowned, innovative organisations from Europe, North America and Asia. www.withersrogers.com 07207 9403600
Zetica is the UK’s leader in engineering and environmental geophysics, with a reputation for objective advice, novel problem solving, consistently high-quality surveys and easy-to-understand reporting. info@zetica.com www.zeticarail.com 01993 886682
To be featured in the Rail Supplier Directory contact Fiona Broomfield on 07949 409 829 or email fiona@railbusinessdaily.com
In April, Marc Hurn was announced as Managing Director of VTG Rail UK, the country’s largest wagon lessor. He was promoted into the role from his previous position as Sales and Marketing Director of the company, which has been making headlines in the rail media over the past 18 months for its ground-breaking iWagon product
What is your reaction to your appointment as Managing Director?
I’m excited for the future and what it will bring for our team, there are new and obvious benefits coming from our innovations that are in the pipeline, including but not limited to iWagon, that not only bring advantages to VTG but to the rail freight industry as whole.
I’m very proud to have been appointed into the role and humbled to be following in the footsteps of our previous and very successful MD Colin Denman, who has been a great mentor to me in my time at VTG. I’ll be continuing to work with him in his new role as Chief Customer Service Officer (CCSO) based at VTG’s headquarters in Hamburg, Germany.
What are your aims and aspirations?
I want to bring performance to an even higher level maximising technology. Creating process changes to achieve this will lead to making rail as easy an option
I want to bring performance to an even higher level maximising technology
as possible for our customers. I talk about the phrase ‘quiet enjoyment’ a lot; we want our customers to be confident in an efficient and slick operation where they know they don’t have to worry about what is going on in the background and trust that everything is running smoothly. We are the leading wagon lessor in the UK, but we want to raise the standards higher still and complacency is not in our vocabulary.
What are the biggest challenges facing railway wagon hire companies and what is going to be key in being first choice for rail freight leasing requirements?
I think the biggest challenge is always going to be ensuring a commercial proposition. If we go back six or seven years, wagons were about 30 to 40 per cent cheaper and prices have maintained this increase due to Ukraine/Brexit etc, so it’s about thinking outside the box and how we counteract these raising costs, and technology is an obvious solution. People are
Three NSAR-endorsed training courses, tailor made to help the supply chain develop the skills & knowledge needed to thrive.
Your gateway to understanding the UK rail industry
A comprehensive overview of the industry, its history, governance, finance, organisations, operations, rail reform, & more. Ideal for inducting trainees, apprentices, and new entrants from other sectors.
Winning
Masterclass Expert-led work winning, intelligence, strategies & tactics
Take a deep dive into how to win more work in rail and come away with fresh tactics. Perfect for business owners, business development & sales teams & anyone involved in work winning roles.
Tailor-made ESG applications for sustainable growth
Identify opportunities for growth through ESG. Specifically created for SMEs. For Corporate Sustainability Officers, Chief Responsibility Officers & people with CSR/ESG responsibilities.
Courses available in London, Leeds, and get in touch to discuss delivery on site.
getting used to their cars telling them when a service is due and we should follow that in rail freight.
We are pushing iWagon and the potential is vast. It’s fantastic that this product is live and on the network, now being retrofitted to the entire Heidelberg Materials UK JPA wagon fleet. And it’s only just the beginning – we have numerous other major operators on board having placed orders including Breedon Group, Tarmac and Alvance British Aluminium. We are always pushing for even further technological advances. What we are endeavouring to do is to ensure that as near to 100 per cent of our customers’ fleets are in service by using technology and condition-based maintenance.
How will your 22 years’ operational, frontline, sales and marketing experience across national and global organisations help you in the role?
Colin Denman originally employed me because I wasn’t recently from the rail industry. I am in a great position to be able to say, ‘Why?’ My pet hate is the answer, ‘because it’s always been done this way.’ If the answer doesn’t make sense, then we change it.
iWagon has been a great example of harnessing drive and passion for a product that has been developed quicker than the industry expected. When I have worked with companies like Amazon and DHL, I have seen them making improvements all the time. Continuous improvement isn’t something you work on for a couple of months and then forget about, it’s day in day out. We should always challenge the status quo.
Railway Benefit Fund (RBF), the charity dedicated to supporting the UK rail industry, has appointed two new trustees to its board: Fiona Irvine and Stuart Mackcracken.
RBF said that both bring a wealth of experience from within the rail and charity sectors, further enhancing its leadership and capabilities.
Fiona said: “Being part of the railway family has always been something I have valued deeply, and to now be able to actively support its individuals through Railway Benefit Fund is incredibly fulfilling.”
Stuart said: “It is a privilege to join Railway Benefit Fund as a Trustee. After spending over two decades in the rail industry, I am looking forward to the opportunity to support my colleagues and the wider railway community through the fund’s essential work.”
Technology breeds technology and that’s what we are seeing at the moment, people see how revolutionary it really is, and we are inundated with ideas at the moment
Are you excited and optimistic for the future?
Yes. iWagon has spawned VTG’s iMaintenance, which is being developed to create a total conditionbased maintenance capability for freight wagons. And as we develop with iWagon we can see further innovations that can also be included, such as using live data to improve pathways for trains on
Leading infrastructure and engineering business
Amey has appointed Colin Wood MBE as a member of the Group Executive Committee and Managing Director of its Consulting business.
Colin will be responsible for strategy, growth and operational delivery of Amey’s Consulting business which operates in the UK, Ireland and the USA.
He replaces Alex Gilbert, who will take up a new role supporting growth across the group, particularly in new geographies.
Colin said: “I am delighted to be joining the business at this exciting time for infrastructure development. Amey’s unique whole lifecycle expertise means it is well positioned to take advantage of the opportunities to deliver sustainable, resilient infrastructure for clients, and consulting capabilities are at the heart of that.”
the network. A train might have a pathway of X number of trains travelling at X speed and we can use technology to fill gaps and increase capacity on the network.
I think iWagon has given the industry hope that anything can be achieved. Technology breeds technology and that’s what we are seeing at the moment, people see how revolutionary it really is, and we are inundated with ideas at the moment. This is a fundamental milestone in the history of rail freight. We’ve achieved what some said was never even possible. We’ve brought cost-effective technology to the market, which offers true benefits and efficiencies to our customers. We’ve taken things to the next level, and we will continue to do so.
Rail freight is a great place to push on and achieve great things and as VTG has found with our collaboration with Knorr-Bremse on the iWagon, working together is key and the more we establish positive partnerships within the industry, the more successful we will be in the continued development of the rail freight offering.
The VTG iWagon provides cutting-edge technology including wheel slide protection and real-time tracking and was developed by dedicated engineers and innovators from VTG Rail UK and KnorrBremse Rail Systems UK. It integrates state-ofthe-art sensors, data analytics and automation to improve safety, and increase the performance and reliability of rail freight wagons. Find out more here: https://uk.vtg.com/products-and-services/iwagon
UKTram has appointed Chris Hopkinson, Head of Metro Operations at Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), as the new Chair of the Owners and Authorities Group.
Joining him in the leadership role is Stuart Lowrie, Public Transport Manager for the City of Edinburgh Council, who will serve as Vice Chair.
Chris said: “Working with colleagues I hope we can look at opportunities to collaborate in order to improve our systems and also look at how we can support those authorities looking to implement light rail.”
Stuart said: “UK Tram, and particularly the owners/authorities group, has been an invaluable source of information and assistance to me in my role in Edinburgh and I look forward to getting more involved in the development of this important organisation.”
Bill Freeman, Interim Chief Executive of Community Rail Network, looks back on this year’s Community Rail Week
This year’s Community Rail Week campaign was dedicated to celebrating all things Railway 200. The recordbreaking 140 activities, events and promotions showcased how community rail initiatives increase access to opportunity, help communities to have a voice on rail, bolster sustainable travel and tourism, and put railways and stations at the heart of community life.
To kick off the week, we joined Tyne Valley Community Rail Partnership (CRP), Community Rail Cumbria, Bishop Line CRP and Esk Valley Railway at Haltwhistle Station for a showcase of community rail activities across the North East region. Guests saw first-hand the impact of local projects showcasing artwork and music, youth engagement, activities to tackle social isolation, and sustainable travel schemes.
The rest of the week saw a programme of community-led activities linking in with the key themes of Railway 200, including skills and education; heritage, culture and tourism; innovation, technology and environment; and celebrating railway people.
Members led ‘try the train’ trips for young people, groups marginalised from rail, or those with accessibility needs, helping them to use rail confidently and safely. Platform Rail led rail safety workshops for primary school children; Gloucestershire and Severnside CRPs provided accessibility support for a group of elderly disabled people on a trip to Gloucester; Community Rail Lancashire delivered interactive workshops as part of Leeds Station Safety Week; and a group of young people experienced a tour of Etches Park Depot and learnt more about careers in rail thanks to East Midlands Railway.
Trains and stations were a hive of activity throughout the week, demonstrating the myriad
of creative and fun ways people can connect with rail. A silent disco lit up Surbiton Station courtesy of Community Train CRP, while ‘Folk on the Flitch Line’ brought live music to passengers thanks to Essex & South Suffolk CRP. Southeast Communities Rail Partnership and Yorkshire Coast CRP led inspiring rail to ramble walks; birthday celebrations were held for Farncombe and Tonbridge stations; Borders Railway, Highland Main Line and 6VT Youth CRPs showcased greener days out at Edinburgh Waverley; Settle-Carlisle Railway provided guided tours of Settle and Armanthwaite signal boxes; and there was even a comedy theatre performance at Accrington Station supported by Community Rail Lancashire.
Biodiversity was big on the agenda, and members delivered a range of activities linked to nature, the outdoors and enhancing stations as green spaces. People got to learn more about protecting natural ecosystems on Penistone Line Partnership’s ‘Mayfly Walk and Talk’; South East Lancashire CRP distributed bee-friendly wildflower seeds to passengers; North Staffs CRP created planters out
We could not have hoped for a better response from members, partners and the public during this year’s campaign
of recycled materials at Stafford Station; the Friends of Ore Station opened their new community garden; and Grow Feral and Secret Garden encouraged volunteers to tend to the community food-growing schemes at Weston-super-Mare and Avonmouth stations.
Engaging and empowering local communities was at the heart of all activity. Esk Valley Railway ran one of their ‘Forget Me Not’ trains to coincide with Dementia Action Week and young people from 6VT Youth CRP shared mental health ‘positivity packs’ with passengers. South West Wales Connected hosted a pop-up museum in a local shopping centre, inviting shoppers to explore railway heritage before leading a walk back to Haverfordwest Station to promote active travel; South Fylde Line CRP unveiled a ‘chatty bench’ at St Annes Station to encourage conversation and connection; the Heart of Wales Line CRP hosted a vibrant ‘make & trade’ networking event for local traders to connect and collaborate; and members of the Friary Gardens autism charity joined a gardening session and enjoyed a ‘try the train’ experience at Robertsbridge Station.
There was a real buzz on social media throughout the week, with 52 member groups sharing their activities to engage online audiences alongside our wider network of partners and supporters helping to raise awareness. #CommunityRailWeek activity was our biggest and best yet, reaching a potential 6.6 million users, and our TikTok video showcasing the launch event at Haltwhistle received nearly 260,000 views.
We could not have hoped for a better response from members, partners and the public during this year’s campaign. Thank you once again to our sponsors Rail Delivery Group and to every single person who got involved for your support and enthusiasm.
Working in partnership to deliver a bright
We collaborate with purpose, working with industry alliance partners to deliver cost effective and innovative solutions.
By leveraging our collective capabilities, our results are more customer focused and sustainable.
Scan here to get in touch
Helping rail projects run smoothly with temporary works
Whatever your project demands, we’re here to support you with temporary works solutions. Whether you need a simple hire, a standard solution or something bespoke, we can help you deliver your project successfully.
Find