The East Coast Digital Programme has taken another big step forward in its mission to bring digital signalling to one of our biggest railway lines. We’ve commissioned new tech on the East Coast Main Line – which runs north out of London King’s Cross – between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin. Engineers worked around the … Continued
We work with thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) all over Britain to look after the railway. Find out how we’re supporting these companies and why it matters. SMEs: the backbone of the economy In November 2022, the Department for Education reported that SMEs represent 99% of businesses in the UK. SMEs employ millions … Continued
There are endless stories on the railway, from how our vital equipment works to rewarding careers helping passengers like you at our stations. Here are 10 of the most read of the past year: Want more posts? Visit our stories section to read our latest posts.
This December, we completed our £30m restoration of Barmouth Viaduct in North Wales. To celebrate, here’s some key facts in numbers. 156 The number of years old this grade II* listed structure is. Its listed status recognises the special architectural and historic interest this Victorian bridge has and means we had to take extra care … Continued
We’re using artificial intelligence to proactively find and repair faults along the railway – before they impact your journeys. Smart tech We’ve been developing and using a new web application called Insight, which helps us plan and prioritise maintenance repair work and avoid delays to your journeys and freight. Data from measurement trains, track images … Continued
Our railway is home to a variety of plant and animals, including the rare and elusive dormice. Find out how we’re using innovative methods to help our small and furry neighbours. Hazel dormice are known to live along the edge of certain stretches of railway, mainly in south England and along the Welsh border. The … Continued
Did you know that leaves on the track can pose a serious safety threat to trains and cause major disruptions to your rail journeys? Here’s how we’re tackling this problem through innovation … The problem Leaves on the track can delay your journeys – particularly in the autumn. Fallen leaves can make the top layer … Continued
Did you know that autumn is often the most challenging season for our railway? Find out how we’re hoping to tackle it using an exciting new technology. Every autumn, thousands of tonnes of leaves fall onto our track throughout Britain. Over time these leaves create a slippery, sludgy layer on the rail head. And it’s … Continued
Did you know the railway is a commuting route for bats? Bats follow the landscape using sound rather than sight at night. They navigate their routes by using sound waves to understand the distance and size of surrounding objects. Roads and motorways are often too wide and brightly lit for bats who do not like to … Continued
You have probably heard that we are bringing the railway into the 21st century. But what does that mean? What are we doing to meet your needs and ensure you are able to travel safely, without delay or disruption, and in comfort? Going digital, for one thing. We’re integrating new digital signalling systems across the … Continued