Route Utilisation Strategies (RUSs) seek to balance supply and demand and set out our longer term vision for improvements across the network.
They do this by considering existing capacity, infrastructure capability and train operations, followed by forecasting future demand and providing recommendations as to how this should best be accommodated.
RUSs consider the requirements of passengers, train operators, rail freight, industry funders and other stakeholders. They are based on a whole-industry approach, with interventions considered such as timetable optimisation, rolling stock changes and running more trains. These are supported by infrastructure enhancements options where necessary.
Achieving value for money is a key element, with all recommendations backed up by a robust economic case.
We take account of the recommendations from RUSs when carrying out our activities. In particular they are utilised in producing our infrastructure investment plans and for allocating existing capacity between competing demands placed upon it, as required by the Network Code.
RUSs have been produced in conjunction with our rail industry partners and wider stakeholders.
In the future, the new Long Term Planning Process will take forward the evidence base used for long term rail industry planning. This has been developed in consultation with rail industry partners to build on the success of the RUS programme and go forward to inform future franchises and discussions on rail industry funding requirements.
Latest RUS news
We have produced RUSs that cover the entire rail network. The most recent publications are:
See the full list of dates in the RUS programme.
Read below the latest documentation on each RUS