On July 8 Govia Thameslink Railway ran a Siemens Mobility Class 717 EMU in passenger service with the Baseline 3 Release 2 ETCS update. This version 3.6.0 introduces the use of packet-switched communication found in GPRS to alleviate a restriction on capacity on the GSM-R network, which uses circuit switched data. This allows more flexibility for services to operate in a high traffic areas, and will be needed as part of the East Coast Digital Programme. All 25 Class 717 EMUs will be upgraded in the coming months, and the baseline will also be used by all train operators on the East Coast main line.
The Rail Safety & Standards Board has called tenders for participation in a project to develop and validate a ground frame signalling facility to support freight operations at sites where full signalling integration is not viable. This aims to reduce costs and complexity for freight site access while maintaining safety and operational standards. The work will include producing a technical specification, supporting system approval through the Network Rail Future CCS Approval Panel, and identifying pilot opportunities for first-of-a-kind implementation.
Amey has been awarded a place on Translink’s four-year, £40m Professional Services Framework. Amey said services to be provided will include strategic site surveys, infrastructure design, civil and structural engineering, line speed upgrades and ‘rail network electrification’.
ScotRail is expanding its work with OptimiseAI to make use of digital twins to enhance energy efficiency at 25 stations and depots, with ‘advanced optimisation’ at eight major sites including Aberdeen, Inverness and Glasgow Queen Street. ScotRail said many railway facilities have data but lack the ability to bring this together to automate and optimise energy use. For example, ticket gate data could help adjust lighting based on real-time passenger flow. Head of Sustainability Poul Wend Hansen said ‘with this further roll-out of digital twins, we can gain a deeper understanding of our energy use and take meaningful steps to reduce emissions across all our stations and depots’.
Vernon Everitt has been announced as the next Chair of Transport for Wales. He is currently Transport Commissioner and Chair of Transport for Greater Manchester, and an non-executive director on the Transport for Wales board. He will take up the post later this month. ‘There is a huge programme of delivery ahead of us, including bus franchising, Network North Wales, completion of the South Wales Metro and continuing to deliver better rail services’, he said.
The South Eastern Railway combination of Southeastern and Network Rail’s Kent Route has opened a career and skills hub a short walk from Ashford International station. Connect 38 brings together recruitment, digital learning and professional development under one roof, creating a ‘dynamic environment’ for new starters and existing staff to develop their careers on the railway.
SPL Powerlines UK has promoted Lee Pounder to Regional Managing Director – Scotland & Ireland; Steve McWhan to Regional Managing Director – England & Wales; and David Bell to UK&I Group Commercial & Special Projects Director. The company said the appointments are part of the development of dedicated Transport and Energy Divisions.