Network Rail has awarded Hitachi Rail and Linbrooke Services a contract to design a digital signalling solution as part of a multimillion-pound project to improve rail reliability and safety in and around the Gloucester area.
This was awarded as part of Hitachi Rail’s Wales and Western Region Major Signalling Renewals Framework, which covers 2,700 miles of track.
The new technology will replace the area’s current switch panel, which was installed back in the 1960s. It includes the introduction of a new digital signalling command control (SCC) system that will enable operators to have a full view of the network and automated updates.
This will, in turn, enable Network Rail to respond to any issues more efficiently, reducing passenger disruption and improving rail traffic management. It will also support improvements in safety, by enabling fault checking to be undertaken remotely rather than trackside.
Over the next year, Hitachi will work with Linbrooke and Network Rail to tailor its wayside standard platform (WSP HS+) system for the area, which will enable the management of trackside equipment – including safety, diagnostics and signalling functions – via a single control station.
“We look forward to working with Hitachi Rail and Linbrooke on this innovative and cost-effective solution to life-extend the signalling assets within the Gloucestershire area. This will provide a safer working environment for our trackside colleagues and improved services for our passengers.”
