New Measurement Train
In June 2003, Network Rail introduced the 125 mph New Measurement Train. This train symbolises Network Rail’s commitment to enhanced infrastructure monitoring.
The Measurement Train provides us with data on the condition of the track, overhead power lines and signals. It gathers the data using advanced monitoring systems which include scanners, lasers and video cameras.
The information from the Measurement Train is used by our engineers to prioritise and plan maintenance work. Over time, we will be able to adapt the Measurement Train so that we can take advantage of new technologies as they are developed.
The Network Rail Measurement Train won an award for Innovation in Engineering at the Railway Forum/Modern Railways Innovation Awards in 2005. The train won the award because it is a significant engineering breakthrough and brings the huge benefits to the railway.
Our Vision for the Future
We are ambitious for the railway
We want Britain’s railway to be world-class – a source of pride for the whole country. It is already a popular service with high passenger satisfaction levels and record levels of passenger and freight demand. We want to continue to meet this demand in the future.
We want to continue to raise the bar on train performance. We aim to transport more passengers, move more freight, improve safety and reduce delays – all at a reduced cost.
Building on our progress
We aim to:
- Improve train punctuality year-on-year
- Reduce broken rails to 280 per year by March 2008
- Reduce the annual running cost of the railway infrastructure to £4.3 billion by 2008/09.
Also, through our Route Utilisation Strategies (RUS), we are looking to grow the rail network where passenger and freight demand requires.
Planning for the future
Each year, Network Rail publishes a 10 year Business Plan. Our third plan, published in March 2005, makes a record investment in improving Britain’s railway.
The plan covers the next 10 years but focuses on the activities for the next five years. We now have a detailed blueprint for improving performance and reducing costs through a huge programme of activities.