General News - February 2012
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29-02-12
Siemens awarded contract for 20 four-car 'Desiro' sets for FTPE and LM franchises
The Rail Minister Theresa Villiers announced on 29 February 2012 that passengers are on track to benefit from faster, longer trains and with over 12,000 extra seats each day on journeys into London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Sheffield, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
The capacity boost is being provided thanks to 80 new carriages set to be introduced on the First TransPennine Express and London Midland franchises from December 2013. The two franchises will each get 40 extra carriages (10 sets).
Theresa Villiers said: “This is great news for passengers who will get faster, longer trains and more seats. Increasing capacity on some of the busiest routes in the country is a key part of the major programme of rail capacity expansion we have promised to deliver. It is a vital way of responding to passenger concerns about crowding and providing an important stimulus to economic growth. As rail travel becomes more popular operators must be able to meet growing demand and these new carriages will enable existing trains to be lengthened. These new trains will also run faster, which means extra train slots will come free, so that London Midland can fit more services into the timetable.”
Current London Midland services travel at a maximum speed of 100 mph, but the train operator will modify some of their existing fleet to run at 110 mph – the maximum speed of the new-build trains – creating faster peak and off-peak services into London Euston.
Not only will this mean quicker journey times – the extra speed will help shave up to 25 minutes off existing Crewe to London Euston off-peak services, for example – but the new timings will create space for extra train slots enabling London Midland to boost capacity in the peak even further.
TransPennine Express’ 10 new trains will be used on the Manchester to Scotland route following the electrification of the line between Manchester and the West Coast Main Line south of Wigan. The new Class 350s will enable existing Class 185 stock to be redeployed across the franchise to increase capacity into Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield and Newcastle.
The new carriages are part of wider plans by the Government to introduce 2,700 carriages onto the rail network by 2019.
The new carriages, which will be built by Siemens in Germany, are being procured by London Midland on behalf of both London Midland and First TransPennine Express. The leasing and operation of the additional carriages is being funded by an increase in Government funding to the two TOCs of around £41m to the planned end of their franchises.
The procurement for London Midland was already underway when the electrification of Manchester and the West Coast Main Line south of Wigan was announced. The Government therefore asked London Midland to extend this existing procurement to include trains needed for the Manchester to Scotland services.
The agreement with First TransPennine Express includes the electrification of the depot at Ardwick, Manchester, where the new trains will be maintained alongside the Class 185s.
London Midland will receive a total of 10 Class 350/3 sets while TransPennine Express will receive 10 Class 350/4 units. The difference between London Midland and TransPennine Express’ carriages will be that those on TransPennine Express will be configured slightly differently to meet the needs of long distance and airport passengers.
Of the 10 sets London Midland will receive, three will help deliver an internal rolling stock cascade that will provide additional capacity (Class 323s) on the Cross City line in Birmingham. The frequency of peak and off-peak services between Birmingham and Redditch will be increased from two trains per hour to three trains per hour from December 2014. The trains will also enable electric services from Birmingham New Street to be extended to Bromsgrove from May 2015, assuming that the plan to relocate Bromsgrove Station is confirmed and electrification is completed on schedule.
The other seven London Midland sets will provide faster peak journeys and extra capacity on services into London Euston from December 2014. For example, the peak journey times between London and Northampton will be reduced by up to 10 minutes and the services between Milton Keynes and London will be reduced by up to seven minutes. In addition, London Midland will be able to run three additional morning peak services and five additional evening peak services into and out of London Euston.
Commuters into London Euston will also benefit from faster journeys due to modifications to increase in maximum speed of some Class 350s of London Midland fleet from 100 mph to 110 mph. The modified trains will deliver faster off-peak services and these are expected to be introduced from December 2012.
The new stock will be built at Siemens plant in Krefeld, Germany and tested at the company’s purpose built test track in Wildenrath, Germany before delivery to the UK in fully operational condition.
The capacity boost is being provided thanks to 80 new carriages set to be introduced on the First TransPennine Express and London Midland franchises from December 2013. The two franchises will each get 40 extra carriages (10 sets).
Theresa Villiers said: “This is great news for passengers who will get faster, longer trains and more seats. Increasing capacity on some of the busiest routes in the country is a key part of the major programme of rail capacity expansion we have promised to deliver. It is a vital way of responding to passenger concerns about crowding and providing an important stimulus to economic growth. As rail travel becomes more popular operators must be able to meet growing demand and these new carriages will enable existing trains to be lengthened. These new trains will also run faster, which means extra train slots will come free, so that London Midland can fit more services into the timetable.”
Current London Midland services travel at a maximum speed of 100 mph, but the train operator will modify some of their existing fleet to run at 110 mph – the maximum speed of the new-build trains – creating faster peak and off-peak services into London Euston.
Not only will this mean quicker journey times – the extra speed will help shave up to 25 minutes off existing Crewe to London Euston off-peak services, for example – but the new timings will create space for extra train slots enabling London Midland to boost capacity in the peak even further.
TransPennine Express’ 10 new trains will be used on the Manchester to Scotland route following the electrification of the line between Manchester and the West Coast Main Line south of Wigan. The new Class 350s will enable existing Class 185 stock to be redeployed across the franchise to increase capacity into Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield and Newcastle.
The new carriages are part of wider plans by the Government to introduce 2,700 carriages onto the rail network by 2019.
The new carriages, which will be built by Siemens in Germany, are being procured by London Midland on behalf of both London Midland and First TransPennine Express. The leasing and operation of the additional carriages is being funded by an increase in Government funding to the two TOCs of around £41m to the planned end of their franchises.
The procurement for London Midland was already underway when the electrification of Manchester and the West Coast Main Line south of Wigan was announced. The Government therefore asked London Midland to extend this existing procurement to include trains needed for the Manchester to Scotland services.
The agreement with First TransPennine Express includes the electrification of the depot at Ardwick, Manchester, where the new trains will be maintained alongside the Class 185s.
London Midland will receive a total of 10 Class 350/3 sets while TransPennine Express will receive 10 Class 350/4 units. The difference between London Midland and TransPennine Express’ carriages will be that those on TransPennine Express will be configured slightly differently to meet the needs of long distance and airport passengers.
Of the 10 sets London Midland will receive, three will help deliver an internal rolling stock cascade that will provide additional capacity (Class 323s) on the Cross City line in Birmingham. The frequency of peak and off-peak services between Birmingham and Redditch will be increased from two trains per hour to three trains per hour from December 2014. The trains will also enable electric services from Birmingham New Street to be extended to Bromsgrove from May 2015, assuming that the plan to relocate Bromsgrove Station is confirmed and electrification is completed on schedule.
The other seven London Midland sets will provide faster peak journeys and extra capacity on services into London Euston from December 2014. For example, the peak journey times between London and Northampton will be reduced by up to 10 minutes and the services between Milton Keynes and London will be reduced by up to seven minutes. In addition, London Midland will be able to run three additional morning peak services and five additional evening peak services into and out of London Euston.
Commuters into London Euston will also benefit from faster journeys due to modifications to increase in maximum speed of some Class 350s of London Midland fleet from 100 mph to 110 mph. The modified trains will deliver faster off-peak services and these are expected to be introduced from December 2012.
The new stock will be built at Siemens plant in Krefeld, Germany and tested at the company’s purpose built test track in Wildenrath, Germany before delivery to the UK in fully operational condition.
28-02-12
Crossrail announce shortlist bidders for rolling stock and depot procurement
The four shortlisted bidders for the Crossrail rolling stock and depot procurement were issued with tender documents by Crossrail on 28 February 2012. The four shortlisted organisations are:
* Bombardier Transportation (UK) Limited;
* Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles SA (CAF);
* Hitachi Rail Europe Limited; and
* Siemens plc.
To deliver Crossrail services, around 60 new trains will be required. Each Crossrail train will be around 200 metres in length and able to carry up to 1,500 passengers.
The tender documents set out Crossrail’s requirements for new high-capacity rolling stock and associated depot at Old Oak Common. A key feature of the new Crossrail trains is air conditioning and inter-connecting walk-through carriages. The contract will be awarded in 2014.
Last summer, Crossrail announced that significant savings for the public purse, running into the tens of millions, could be realised by introducing rolling stock to the rail network over a shorter period. Crossrail will now introduce rolling stock to the Great Eastern Main Line from May 2017, with the fleet progressively introduced to the existing rail network well in advance of services commencing through Crossrail’s central section.
The procurement is being managed by Crossrail. A pre-determined process will be followed and the tender documents set out the criteria that will be used to select the successful bidder. The overarching aim of the procurement is to obtain the right train at the best price. Tenders are due to be returned to Crossrail during summer 2012.
Secretary of State for Transport Justine Greening said: “This is an important step in making Crossrail a reality for millions of passengers who will use it every week. Once these 60 trains are operational they will carry an additional 1.5 million people within 45 minutes of the heart of London, help the growth of the UK economy and create opportunities for new apprenticeships and jobs. A number of outcomes from the Government’s review of public procurement have been reflected in this procurement, which could bring opportunities to UK businesses. This includes a ‘responsible procurement’ requirement that means bidders will need to set out how they will engage with the wider supply chain and provide opportunities for training, apprenticeships and for small and medium size businesses within their procurement strategy.”
Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, said: “Crossrail provides London with a multitude of benefits including a huge economic boost for our city. Thousands of jobs are being created through the construction of the railway, many of which will be through the manufacture of trains and depots. When up and running Crossrail will singlehandedly increase the rail capacity in our great city by a whopping ten per cent and support regeneration across the whole of the capital.”
Andrew Wolstenholme, Crossrail Chief Executive said: “Procurement of the rolling stock and depot is crucial to the overall delivery of Crossrail, which will create a significant transformation of transport in London and the southeast. Over the past year Crossrail has successfully procured some of the largest value contracts in recent UK construction history - creating major employment opportunities and providing a much needed boost to the UK economy. In doing so we have developed a reputation for being an industry leader in procurement built on a commitment to conduct our procurements in a fair, objective and transparent manner and in full compliance with the regulatory framework.”
The Government has been working with Crossrail to ensure that relevant recommendations from the recent Growth Review are reflected in the Crossrail rolling stock and depot procurement.
The procurement process has two rounds. The focus of the first round is for bidders to provide technical proposals and their approach to securing the finance necessary to complete the project. At this point a shortlist of bidders will be invited to participate in the second round which will focus on bidders providing fully funded proposals. At the end of round two a preferred bidder will be selected to conclude the contract.
At the end of each round, only bidders who meet Crossrail’s minimum technical and delivery requirements will be considered with selection based upon the most economically advantageous bids submitted.
The capital cost of new Crossrail rolling stock and depot facilities is in the region of £1bn – this is the largest single contract that Crossrail will let.
The intention is for the future operation of Crossrail services to be let as a concession by Transport for London (TfL) and therefore the contract for rolling stock and depot will be between the successful bidder and TfL.
Crossrail will boost London’s rail-based capacity by 10 per cent, delivering new journey opportunities, faster journey times and up to 24 trains per hour between Paddington and Whitechapel during the peak.
* Bombardier Transportation (UK) Limited;
* Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles SA (CAF);
* Hitachi Rail Europe Limited; and
* Siemens plc.
To deliver Crossrail services, around 60 new trains will be required. Each Crossrail train will be around 200 metres in length and able to carry up to 1,500 passengers.
The tender documents set out Crossrail’s requirements for new high-capacity rolling stock and associated depot at Old Oak Common. A key feature of the new Crossrail trains is air conditioning and inter-connecting walk-through carriages. The contract will be awarded in 2014.
Last summer, Crossrail announced that significant savings for the public purse, running into the tens of millions, could be realised by introducing rolling stock to the rail network over a shorter period. Crossrail will now introduce rolling stock to the Great Eastern Main Line from May 2017, with the fleet progressively introduced to the existing rail network well in advance of services commencing through Crossrail’s central section.
The procurement is being managed by Crossrail. A pre-determined process will be followed and the tender documents set out the criteria that will be used to select the successful bidder. The overarching aim of the procurement is to obtain the right train at the best price. Tenders are due to be returned to Crossrail during summer 2012.
Secretary of State for Transport Justine Greening said: “This is an important step in making Crossrail a reality for millions of passengers who will use it every week. Once these 60 trains are operational they will carry an additional 1.5 million people within 45 minutes of the heart of London, help the growth of the UK economy and create opportunities for new apprenticeships and jobs. A number of outcomes from the Government’s review of public procurement have been reflected in this procurement, which could bring opportunities to UK businesses. This includes a ‘responsible procurement’ requirement that means bidders will need to set out how they will engage with the wider supply chain and provide opportunities for training, apprenticeships and for small and medium size businesses within their procurement strategy.”
Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, said: “Crossrail provides London with a multitude of benefits including a huge economic boost for our city. Thousands of jobs are being created through the construction of the railway, many of which will be through the manufacture of trains and depots. When up and running Crossrail will singlehandedly increase the rail capacity in our great city by a whopping ten per cent and support regeneration across the whole of the capital.”
Andrew Wolstenholme, Crossrail Chief Executive said: “Procurement of the rolling stock and depot is crucial to the overall delivery of Crossrail, which will create a significant transformation of transport in London and the southeast. Over the past year Crossrail has successfully procured some of the largest value contracts in recent UK construction history - creating major employment opportunities and providing a much needed boost to the UK economy. In doing so we have developed a reputation for being an industry leader in procurement built on a commitment to conduct our procurements in a fair, objective and transparent manner and in full compliance with the regulatory framework.”
The Government has been working with Crossrail to ensure that relevant recommendations from the recent Growth Review are reflected in the Crossrail rolling stock and depot procurement.
The procurement process has two rounds. The focus of the first round is for bidders to provide technical proposals and their approach to securing the finance necessary to complete the project. At this point a shortlist of bidders will be invited to participate in the second round which will focus on bidders providing fully funded proposals. At the end of round two a preferred bidder will be selected to conclude the contract.
At the end of each round, only bidders who meet Crossrail’s minimum technical and delivery requirements will be considered with selection based upon the most economically advantageous bids submitted.
The capital cost of new Crossrail rolling stock and depot facilities is in the region of £1bn – this is the largest single contract that Crossrail will let.
The intention is for the future operation of Crossrail services to be let as a concession by Transport for London (TfL) and therefore the contract for rolling stock and depot will be between the successful bidder and TfL.
Crossrail will boost London’s rail-based capacity by 10 per cent, delivering new journey opportunities, faster journey times and up to 24 trains per hour between Paddington and Whitechapel during the peak.
28-02-12
Alternative solutions considered to deliver a better railway
Network Rail is to look at three alternative rail solutions as part of its continued efforts to deliver a better value-for-money railway.
Tram and train, community rail initiatives and more innovative ways of replacing diesel traction with electrically-powered trains will all be studied in more detail as part of the company’s alternative solutions route utilisation strategy (RUS).
To further develop the strategy an invitation is being made to all of Network Rail’s partners, customers and other interested industry parties to submit their ideas.
This approach differs from previous RUSs and the submissions will help shape a second draft which will go out to formal consultation in the summer.
The three alternatives being looked at by Network Rail to see if different ways of working can help the industry become more effective and better value for money are:
* Can the application of tram or tram train technologies (such as the tram train concept) deliver savings in capital, operating and maintenance costs, whilst simultaneously delivering improvements for passengers?
* Are there cheaper and more innovative ways of replacing diesel traction with electrically-powered trains?
* To what extent can the further development of community rail initiatives provide locally applicable opportunities for adding value to railway operations?
Paul Plummer, Network Rail’s group strategy director, said: “The railway industry faces a constant challenge to deliver value-for-money. It is only by rising to that challenge that the industry can continue to play a significant role in transporting people and goods in an efficient, sustainable and environmentally friendly way. This draft RUS is an opportunity to further explore three key areas which could help us achieve these objectives. All responses received will be considered and will help influence a second draft which will be published for consultation later in the year.”
The consultation will last for 60 days starting on Tuesday 28 February and closing on 30 April 2012. Network Rail will write to a wide range of partners and interested parties informing them of the consultation asking them to submit their ideas to networkrusalternativesolutions@networkrail.co.uk.
Tram and train, community rail initiatives and more innovative ways of replacing diesel traction with electrically-powered trains will all be studied in more detail as part of the company’s alternative solutions route utilisation strategy (RUS).
To further develop the strategy an invitation is being made to all of Network Rail’s partners, customers and other interested industry parties to submit their ideas.
This approach differs from previous RUSs and the submissions will help shape a second draft which will go out to formal consultation in the summer.
The three alternatives being looked at by Network Rail to see if different ways of working can help the industry become more effective and better value for money are:
* Can the application of tram or tram train technologies (such as the tram train concept) deliver savings in capital, operating and maintenance costs, whilst simultaneously delivering improvements for passengers?
* Are there cheaper and more innovative ways of replacing diesel traction with electrically-powered trains?
* To what extent can the further development of community rail initiatives provide locally applicable opportunities for adding value to railway operations?
Paul Plummer, Network Rail’s group strategy director, said: “The railway industry faces a constant challenge to deliver value-for-money. It is only by rising to that challenge that the industry can continue to play a significant role in transporting people and goods in an efficient, sustainable and environmentally friendly way. This draft RUS is an opportunity to further explore three key areas which could help us achieve these objectives. All responses received will be considered and will help influence a second draft which will be published for consultation later in the year.”
The consultation will last for 60 days starting on Tuesday 28 February and closing on 30 April 2012. Network Rail will write to a wide range of partners and interested parties informing them of the consultation asking them to submit their ideas to networkrusalternativesolutions@networkrail.co.uk.
28-02-12
Railway Archives brought to life 'online'
Historic images of the original architectural drawings of the Forth Bridge, Paddington station and even Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s signature have been captured and published for the first time on a new Network Rail virtual archive, bringing together 19th century engineering and 21st century technology.
The website www.networkrail.co.uk/virtualarchive celebrates the heritage of today’s railway infrastructure and provides public access to view a special selection of the Network Rail archive, which holds over five million records.
Visitors to the site can chart the history of the railway’s most significant structures and stations including the Forth Bridge, the Tay Bridge, Box Tunnel, and many main line stations. The archive holds records by the most famous railway engineers including Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Robert Stephenson, Joseph Locke and William Henry Barlow.
Network Rail’s archivist Vicky Stretch explains why the online archive is so important: “The history of the railway is so fascinating with some of the oldest records dating back to the 1680s and Charing Cross station with Sir Christopher Wren’s signature. The drawings and documents we hold are an absorbing window to understanding the incredibly detailed and beautiful architectural work carried out by some of the world’s greatest engineers, and are still important for engineers working today. We can’t yet showcase anywhere near the five million records we hold but we’ll publish new images and documents all the time and through the ‘ask the archivist’ and blog sections we can share more. We hope this will be a great resource for enthusiasts, historians, architects and students alike. Now everyone can enjoy these amazing drawings and historical documents and learn more about how the railways made Britain what it is today.”
While the drawings date from the earliest days of the railway they are still useful operational records today, as many show information such as foundations and original construction details. The drawings signed by Brunel of Box Tunnel tell us exactly how that tunnel was constructed and this is still important to the running of the railway today.
The oldest records Network Rail holds are from the deeds collection. This collection charts the history of all the land the railway is built on. A set of deeds from 1684 relating to the land Charing Cross is now built on, bears the signature of Sir Christopher Wren (land he once owned was in the 19th century sold to the railway).
With only a small section of the five million articles available for the first phase of the virtual archive, visitors are invited to ‘ask the archivist’ questions about the collection. Enthusiasts can also for the first time purchase a print of their favourite railway image. Network Rail is working with Mediastorehouse to enable people to buy or licence high quality digital images for instant download as well as prints (including framed prints and canvases), key rings, magnets, mugs, mouse mats, jigsaws and greetings cards. All profits from this commercial activity will go back into helping Network Rail manage, maintain and improve Britain’s railways.
The website also has social media sharing functionality, which encourages people to share images with their friends and families.
The website www.networkrail.co.uk/virtualarchive celebrates the heritage of today’s railway infrastructure and provides public access to view a special selection of the Network Rail archive, which holds over five million records.
Visitors to the site can chart the history of the railway’s most significant structures and stations including the Forth Bridge, the Tay Bridge, Box Tunnel, and many main line stations. The archive holds records by the most famous railway engineers including Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Robert Stephenson, Joseph Locke and William Henry Barlow.
Network Rail’s archivist Vicky Stretch explains why the online archive is so important: “The history of the railway is so fascinating with some of the oldest records dating back to the 1680s and Charing Cross station with Sir Christopher Wren’s signature. The drawings and documents we hold are an absorbing window to understanding the incredibly detailed and beautiful architectural work carried out by some of the world’s greatest engineers, and are still important for engineers working today. We can’t yet showcase anywhere near the five million records we hold but we’ll publish new images and documents all the time and through the ‘ask the archivist’ and blog sections we can share more. We hope this will be a great resource for enthusiasts, historians, architects and students alike. Now everyone can enjoy these amazing drawings and historical documents and learn more about how the railways made Britain what it is today.”
While the drawings date from the earliest days of the railway they are still useful operational records today, as many show information such as foundations and original construction details. The drawings signed by Brunel of Box Tunnel tell us exactly how that tunnel was constructed and this is still important to the running of the railway today.
The oldest records Network Rail holds are from the deeds collection. This collection charts the history of all the land the railway is built on. A set of deeds from 1684 relating to the land Charing Cross is now built on, bears the signature of Sir Christopher Wren (land he once owned was in the 19th century sold to the railway).
With only a small section of the five million articles available for the first phase of the virtual archive, visitors are invited to ‘ask the archivist’ questions about the collection. Enthusiasts can also for the first time purchase a print of their favourite railway image. Network Rail is working with Mediastorehouse to enable people to buy or licence high quality digital images for instant download as well as prints (including framed prints and canvases), key rings, magnets, mugs, mouse mats, jigsaws and greetings cards. All profits from this commercial activity will go back into helping Network Rail manage, maintain and improve Britain’s railways.
The website also has social media sharing functionality, which encourages people to share images with their friends and families.
28-02-12
Alstom and Transmashholding present their new tram to Moscow Mayor
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Alstom and Transmashholding (TMH) presented in Moscow on 27 February to Sergey Sobyanin, Mayor of Moscow, a modern high-speed low-floor tram designed for Russian cities. The presentation was held in presence of Patrick Kron, Chairman and CEO of Alstom.
Alstom and TMH intend to manufacture these new low-floor high-speed trams in Russia. The partners aim at implementing in Moscow innovative solutions with regard to rolling stock design, traffic and passenger management, signaling systems and other rail aspects. The tram-set presented in Moscow is a completely modular vehicle combining the latest know-how of modern tramway engineering based on Alstom flagship’s Citadis. It is equipped with a new model of bogie to fit Moscow existing rail network, thus reducing the infrastructure preparation phase and cutting the operation costs. Designed for maximum speed of 75kph, it can run at an average speed of 25kph depending on existing infrastructure and signaling systems, compared to 11kph for existing tramways in Moscow. State-of-the-art engineering solutions such as composite materials, new innovative bogie or modular sections used in this new model of tramway ensure easier repair and lower maintenance costs as well as energy savings (the use of composites reduces by 10% energy consumption). The life-time of this new rolling stock is 30 years. From 25 to 35 m long depending on customer’s requirements, the tramway has also a capacity of 300 passengers, almost twice as much as in the current vehicles. This tram has a low-floor, providing easy access to disabled or elderly people and to passengers with prams. It can be equipped with WiFi internet connections. Alstom designers will give the tram a unique “Moscow-inspired” exterior. Three different proposals of design (“classic”, “dynamic” or “friendly”) combining different shapes of exterior front head with different colors of seats and interior equipment were submitted today to Sergey Sobyanin. Alstom’s leadership in tram solutions combined with TMH’s experience as the largest rolling stock manufacturer in Russia will allow the partners to offer Moscow a comfortable, safe and modern city transport. Over 1,500 Alstom trams are in operation in 40 cities of the world and have already transported over 4 billion passengers. |
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28-02-12
ScotRail introduce mobile maintenance
ScotRail has unveiled a specially-equipped van to help its roving maintenance teams carry out their work at Aberdeenshire and West highland stations.
The all-wheel-drive vasn have delivered to ScotRail staff at Aberdeen and Oban stations.
The customised Ford Transit have been kitted out with snow and leaf blowers, trailers, large robust shovels and hand-held de-icing material spreaders to help enhance access, mainly at unstaffed and part-time staffed stations.
They also feature a mini-kitchen, with a hot water supply, microwave and sink, to sustain staff working during bad weather, in remote locations and at night.
Ewan Macdonald, ScotRail’s facilities manager for Highland & North, said the upgraded vans would directly benefit customers – particularly during times of severe wind, rain or prolonged freezing temperatures.
Mr Macdonald said: “The all-wheel-drive vans will help our roving station maintenance teams resolve any access issues at platforms, walkways and car parks at unstaffed Aberdeenshire stations. They form part of our ongoing efforts to be better prepared whenever extreme weather hits the region.”
A total of 27 vans are being phased in across the country to replace ScotRail’s previous fleet of 19 vans – representing a 42% increase in capacity.
Dennis Robertson, MSP for Aberdeenshire West, said: “I would like to congratulate ScotRail for increasing the number of specially-equipped vans to be deployed in Scotland and, particularly, within my constituency. After a few years of severe winters, I strongly encourage and welcome any investment to help people to travel in safe conditions all year round. We have both unstaffed and part-time staffed stations within Aberdeenshire West and, as a regular train user, I know how important it is to keep the access to stations and platforms safe during and after spells of challenging weather.”
Dedicated teams of two to four staff will alternate shifts to provide cover for 15 hours a day – or longer.
The cost of leasing the vans is in addition to the £2million ScotRail recently invested to better prepare for severe weather.
The all-wheel-drive vasn have delivered to ScotRail staff at Aberdeen and Oban stations.
The customised Ford Transit have been kitted out with snow and leaf blowers, trailers, large robust shovels and hand-held de-icing material spreaders to help enhance access, mainly at unstaffed and part-time staffed stations.
They also feature a mini-kitchen, with a hot water supply, microwave and sink, to sustain staff working during bad weather, in remote locations and at night.
Ewan Macdonald, ScotRail’s facilities manager for Highland & North, said the upgraded vans would directly benefit customers – particularly during times of severe wind, rain or prolonged freezing temperatures.
Mr Macdonald said: “The all-wheel-drive vans will help our roving station maintenance teams resolve any access issues at platforms, walkways and car parks at unstaffed Aberdeenshire stations. They form part of our ongoing efforts to be better prepared whenever extreme weather hits the region.”
A total of 27 vans are being phased in across the country to replace ScotRail’s previous fleet of 19 vans – representing a 42% increase in capacity.
Dennis Robertson, MSP for Aberdeenshire West, said: “I would like to congratulate ScotRail for increasing the number of specially-equipped vans to be deployed in Scotland and, particularly, within my constituency. After a few years of severe winters, I strongly encourage and welcome any investment to help people to travel in safe conditions all year round. We have both unstaffed and part-time staffed stations within Aberdeenshire West and, as a regular train user, I know how important it is to keep the access to stations and platforms safe during and after spells of challenging weather.”
Dedicated teams of two to four staff will alternate shifts to provide cover for 15 hours a day – or longer.
The cost of leasing the vans is in addition to the £2million ScotRail recently invested to better prepare for severe weather.
27-02-12
RAIB released report into track worker incidents between Earlsfield and Clapham Junction
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) released its report on 27 February 2012 into two incidents involving track maintenance staff, between Clapham Junction and Earlsfield stations, on 8 March 2011.
A full copy of the report is available here:
Summary of incidents At around 06.00 hrs on Tuesday 8 March 2011, two gangs of Network Rail track maintenance staff were involved in incidents with trains between Clapham Junction and Earlsfield stations. The gangs were setting up an emergency speed restriction after the discovery of a rail defect earlier that morning. The work was being carried out following the late handback of an engineering possession.
The RAIB investigation identified that the staff involved did not follow the rules for setting up safe and appropriate systems of work. This was due to a combination of factors, possibly including:
* excessive workload;
* the pressure to complete the work;
* fatigue and / or tiredness;
* the complexity of the rules;
* the absence of checking of the arrangements by a third-party;
* the ineffectiveness of Network Rail’s competence management process; and a shortage of staff.
Since the incidents Network Rail has carried out a review and is proposing to make changes to address underlying issues.
A full copy of the report is available here:
Summary of incidents At around 06.00 hrs on Tuesday 8 March 2011, two gangs of Network Rail track maintenance staff were involved in incidents with trains between Clapham Junction and Earlsfield stations. The gangs were setting up an emergency speed restriction after the discovery of a rail defect earlier that morning. The work was being carried out following the late handback of an engineering possession.
The RAIB investigation identified that the staff involved did not follow the rules for setting up safe and appropriate systems of work. This was due to a combination of factors, possibly including:
* excessive workload;
* the pressure to complete the work;
* fatigue and / or tiredness;
* the complexity of the rules;
* the absence of checking of the arrangements by a third-party;
* the ineffectiveness of Network Rail’s competence management process; and a shortage of staff.
Since the incidents Network Rail has carried out a review and is proposing to make changes to address underlying issues.
27-02-12
Network Rail reports good station retail growth
Network Rail has released its latest set of station retail sales results for September to December 2011 showing a 2.35% growth in like-for-like sales, compared to the same quarter the previous year. In the same period high street sales, as reported by the British Retail Consortium, remained flat showing no growth, meaning retail in stations continues to perform well.
These figures were compiled from the results of retailers operating across 560,000 sq.ft of retail space (493units/shops) at 16 of Britain’s busiest stations owned and operated by Network Rail, benefiting from a combined annual footfall of over a billion.
Manchester Piccadilly achieved the best performance with 7.2% growth in sales followed by London Waterloo and Victoria with sales up by 6.6%. Strong trading results were also achieved at Birmingham 5.7%, London Bridge 4.78% and Edinburgh 3.15%
Food, grocery and catering categories continue to show the highest levels of growth across the portfolio, with specialist food catering brands posting a strong performance up 15.4%, and specialist food retail with a 10.6% increase. Supermarkets continued to do well reporting over 5% growth, whilst bars increased by 9.3% and restaurants by 5.7%.
Network Rail’s head of retail Gavin McKechnie said: “In such a challenging economic climate these figures are encouraging and mainly thanks to the guaranteed footfall through our stations. During this trading period commuter passenger flows were disrupted with Christmas falling at a weekend, despite this Network Rail managed stations continue to give our retail partners a real edge over the high street”.
All profits from Network Rail’s retail activity are re-invested in the railway, limiting the cost to taxpayers and passengers.
In March 2012 Network Rail will be unveiling the new retail balcony at King’s Cross with 27,000 sq ft of additional retail space marking the start of a new era for station retail.
These figures were compiled from the results of retailers operating across 560,000 sq.ft of retail space (493units/shops) at 16 of Britain’s busiest stations owned and operated by Network Rail, benefiting from a combined annual footfall of over a billion.
Manchester Piccadilly achieved the best performance with 7.2% growth in sales followed by London Waterloo and Victoria with sales up by 6.6%. Strong trading results were also achieved at Birmingham 5.7%, London Bridge 4.78% and Edinburgh 3.15%
Food, grocery and catering categories continue to show the highest levels of growth across the portfolio, with specialist food catering brands posting a strong performance up 15.4%, and specialist food retail with a 10.6% increase. Supermarkets continued to do well reporting over 5% growth, whilst bars increased by 9.3% and restaurants by 5.7%.
Network Rail’s head of retail Gavin McKechnie said: “In such a challenging economic climate these figures are encouraging and mainly thanks to the guaranteed footfall through our stations. During this trading period commuter passenger flows were disrupted with Christmas falling at a weekend, despite this Network Rail managed stations continue to give our retail partners a real edge over the high street”.
All profits from Network Rail’s retail activity are re-invested in the railway, limiting the cost to taxpayers and passengers.
In March 2012 Network Rail will be unveiling the new retail balcony at King’s Cross with 27,000 sq ft of additional retail space marking the start of a new era for station retail.
27-02-12
Big discounts on Hull Trains
First Hull Trains passengers are being given the chance to save a staggering 60 per cent on their fares. It comes as First Hull Trains announces its biggest ever seat sale on its flagship service from Hull to London, with prices starting at £10*.
David Townend, sales and marketing manager at First Hull Trains, said: “We encourage passengers to make use of the significant discounts that are offered for advance ticket purchases. We have thousands of seats available but demand is always high so people need to book early to avoid disappointment. We are now taking bookings for travel up to the end of April - perfect for half-term, Mother's Day and the Easter Holidays."
Passengers can save the cash by booking advance tickets rather than purchasing on the day of travel.
The discount prices are available seven days a week and from all local departure points en-route to London Kings Cross.
First Hull’s Seat Sale is available on one-way tickets in First and Standard Class on all services. Fare prices start at £10* one-way from Hull to London.
*Fare shown is Advance Purchase Standard class level F.
First Hull Trains Advance Purchase fares are subject to availability and limited to selected services.
To book tickets in the biggest seat sale, www.hulltrains.co.uk/seatsale
David Townend, sales and marketing manager at First Hull Trains, said: “We encourage passengers to make use of the significant discounts that are offered for advance ticket purchases. We have thousands of seats available but demand is always high so people need to book early to avoid disappointment. We are now taking bookings for travel up to the end of April - perfect for half-term, Mother's Day and the Easter Holidays."
Passengers can save the cash by booking advance tickets rather than purchasing on the day of travel.
The discount prices are available seven days a week and from all local departure points en-route to London Kings Cross.
First Hull’s Seat Sale is available on one-way tickets in First and Standard Class on all services. Fare prices start at £10* one-way from Hull to London.
*Fare shown is Advance Purchase Standard class level F.
First Hull Trains Advance Purchase fares are subject to availability and limited to selected services.
To book tickets in the biggest seat sale, www.hulltrains.co.uk/seatsale
27-02-12
New coffee bar for Knebworth
A new coffee bar has opened at FCCs Knebworth Station offering a wide range of drinks and hot and cold snacks.
Linnies Coffee Bar is owned and managed by Lyndsey Di’Chiara, aged 30, from Stevenage. Lyndsey’s family already has a long history with the coffee trade as her Italian father, Raffaele, imports and trades Italian coffee beans to the UK.
In addition to serving her father’s Italian coffee Lyndsey offers speciality hot chocolates and herbal teas. She also sells pastries, cakes and porridge for the morning commuters.
Linnies Coffee Bar is situated inside the station’s ticket office and is open Monday to Friday, 6am till 1pm.
Anna Kiddle, FCC’s Estates Manager, said: “Linnies Coffee Bar looks fantastic and is certainly a welcome addition to Knebworth Station. Lyndsey already has a great reputation at the station and I am confident that our customers here in Knebworth will appreciate the quality of products and service that she provides.”
Lyndsey Di’Chiara commented: “We have only been open for a short while and I have been overwhelmed with the reception from station users, particularly towards our Italian coffee. I would like to thank First Capital Connect for all their help and I look forward to a long working relationship.”
Linnies Coffee Bar is owned and managed by Lyndsey Di’Chiara, aged 30, from Stevenage. Lyndsey’s family already has a long history with the coffee trade as her Italian father, Raffaele, imports and trades Italian coffee beans to the UK.
In addition to serving her father’s Italian coffee Lyndsey offers speciality hot chocolates and herbal teas. She also sells pastries, cakes and porridge for the morning commuters.
Linnies Coffee Bar is situated inside the station’s ticket office and is open Monday to Friday, 6am till 1pm.
Anna Kiddle, FCC’s Estates Manager, said: “Linnies Coffee Bar looks fantastic and is certainly a welcome addition to Knebworth Station. Lyndsey already has a great reputation at the station and I am confident that our customers here in Knebworth will appreciate the quality of products and service that she provides.”
Lyndsey Di’Chiara commented: “We have only been open for a short while and I have been overwhelmed with the reception from station users, particularly towards our Italian coffee. I would like to thank First Capital Connect for all their help and I look forward to a long working relationship.”
27-02-12
Glasgow's 'Ring of Steel' complete
The final batch of automatic ticket gates at Glasgow Central High Level are now operational.
They mark the completion of the so-called ‘ring of steel’ at stations in and around the city centre, with gates already introduced at Anderston, Charing Cross, Argyle Street and Glasgow Central Low Level stations.
They have been introduced by the train operator under commitments to reduce ticketless travel, increase revenue protection, improve station security, and reduce anti-social behaviour.
Steve Montgomery, ScotRail’s managing director, said: “I welcome the completion of this project. Revenue protection and reducing ticketless travel have always been priorities for us because it is honest, fare-paying passengers who bear the burden in lost investment in Scotland's railway.”
With the introduction of the gates, ScotRail is encouraging customers to buy their tickets before they travel. Daily passengers can opt for weekly, monthly or annual season tickets, saving up to 30% on their travel costs. For one-off journeys, pre-dated tickets can be purchased up to seven days before travel.
The £5.7m scheme covering the Glasgow stations was funded by Network Rail which runs, maintains and develops the UK railway and a number of key stations.
They mark the completion of the so-called ‘ring of steel’ at stations in and around the city centre, with gates already introduced at Anderston, Charing Cross, Argyle Street and Glasgow Central Low Level stations.
They have been introduced by the train operator under commitments to reduce ticketless travel, increase revenue protection, improve station security, and reduce anti-social behaviour.
Steve Montgomery, ScotRail’s managing director, said: “I welcome the completion of this project. Revenue protection and reducing ticketless travel have always been priorities for us because it is honest, fare-paying passengers who bear the burden in lost investment in Scotland's railway.”
With the introduction of the gates, ScotRail is encouraging customers to buy their tickets before they travel. Daily passengers can opt for weekly, monthly or annual season tickets, saving up to 30% on their travel costs. For one-off journeys, pre-dated tickets can be purchased up to seven days before travel.
The £5.7m scheme covering the Glasgow stations was funded by Network Rail which runs, maintains and develops the UK railway and a number of key stations.
27-02-12
Wind turbine for Montrose
ScotRail has announced a £75,000 project to install a wind turbine at Montrose station to generate eco-friendly power for the premises.
Montrose will become the first staffed station in Scotland to produce its own wind-generated electricity when the 5kW turbine is erected this spring.
ScotRail expects the scheme to create up to 9,000kWh of energy annually, to help power heating, lighting and information signs at the station.
Stewart Cahill, ScotRail’s environmental compliance manager, said: “This is an exciting and innovative project as part of ScotRail’s ongoing efforts to further enhance its environmental performance. By introducing a wind turbine at Montrose, ScotRail is reducing carbon emissions without impacting on the quality service we offer our customers.”
The project has been made possible with support from Transport Scotland.
Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "I am encouraged that ScotRail is making a positive contribution to carbon emissions reduction in Scotland and look forward to further similar projects to improve the environmental performance of Scotland's railway."
The wind turbine has been granted planning permission by Angus Council and also received landlord’s consent.
The turbine mast will be 10 metres tall, while its rotor blades will have a 2.7 metre radius.
It will be the second environmental project to take place at Montrose station during the last 12 months. ScotRail worked with the Scottish Wildlife Trust last summer to install permanent bird-watching equipment at the station, allowing customers to view birds including pink-footed geese and red knot.
Montrose will become the first staffed station in Scotland to produce its own wind-generated electricity when the 5kW turbine is erected this spring.
ScotRail expects the scheme to create up to 9,000kWh of energy annually, to help power heating, lighting and information signs at the station.
Stewart Cahill, ScotRail’s environmental compliance manager, said: “This is an exciting and innovative project as part of ScotRail’s ongoing efforts to further enhance its environmental performance. By introducing a wind turbine at Montrose, ScotRail is reducing carbon emissions without impacting on the quality service we offer our customers.”
The project has been made possible with support from Transport Scotland.
Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "I am encouraged that ScotRail is making a positive contribution to carbon emissions reduction in Scotland and look forward to further similar projects to improve the environmental performance of Scotland's railway."
The wind turbine has been granted planning permission by Angus Council and also received landlord’s consent.
The turbine mast will be 10 metres tall, while its rotor blades will have a 2.7 metre radius.
It will be the second environmental project to take place at Montrose station during the last 12 months. ScotRail worked with the Scottish Wildlife Trust last summer to install permanent bird-watching equipment at the station, allowing customers to view birds including pink-footed geese and red knot.
27-02-12
Hove MP launches Southern's 'Eyewitness' initiative
Hove MP, Mike Weatherley has launched Southern’s Eyewitness initiative at Hove railway station.
Mr Weatherley joined Southern senior staff, and representatives from the West Sussex Rail User Group to launch Southern’s award winning low-level crime reporting system to passengers who use Southern services between Hove and Warblington along Southern’s West Coastway route.
Eyewitness is a scheme which allows the reporting of low-level crime by e-mail. The system has been used successfully as an in-house system where Southern staff have e-mailed members of Southern’s Safer Travel and Revenue Protection Teams to report incidences of vandalism, anti-social behaviour and fare evasion. The system allows Southern to respond quickly where officers are in the area, and to identify patterns, trends and hotspots which enables more intelligent deployment of Rail Neighbourhood Officers and Revenue Protection Officers when detailing patrols.
Following a successful public trial on the Arun Valley Line, Southern has decided to roll out the scheme to the remainder of the Southern network, staring with the West Coastway.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr Weatherley said: "The Eyewitness scheme uses technology in a clever way to share information on those causing anti-social behaviour on our train services. It is an inexpensive system to crack down on what is a significant problem. I welcome this pro-active initiative wholeheartedly.”
Southern’s Development Director, David Scorey said: “Eyewitness has been a tremendous success since we introduced it internally almost two years ago. The scheme has worked well on the Arun Valley Line and now we look forward to even better results now that we are asking our passengers on the West Coastway to tell us about low-level crime they have witnessed.”
Passengers witnessing crime between Hove and Warblington stations can report what they’ve seen, where they saw it, when they saw it and a brief description of the offender(s) by sending an e-mail to the dedicated address found on posters at leaflets at staffed stations between the two stations.
Mr Weatherley joined Southern senior staff, and representatives from the West Sussex Rail User Group to launch Southern’s award winning low-level crime reporting system to passengers who use Southern services between Hove and Warblington along Southern’s West Coastway route.
Eyewitness is a scheme which allows the reporting of low-level crime by e-mail. The system has been used successfully as an in-house system where Southern staff have e-mailed members of Southern’s Safer Travel and Revenue Protection Teams to report incidences of vandalism, anti-social behaviour and fare evasion. The system allows Southern to respond quickly where officers are in the area, and to identify patterns, trends and hotspots which enables more intelligent deployment of Rail Neighbourhood Officers and Revenue Protection Officers when detailing patrols.
Following a successful public trial on the Arun Valley Line, Southern has decided to roll out the scheme to the remainder of the Southern network, staring with the West Coastway.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr Weatherley said: "The Eyewitness scheme uses technology in a clever way to share information on those causing anti-social behaviour on our train services. It is an inexpensive system to crack down on what is a significant problem. I welcome this pro-active initiative wholeheartedly.”
Southern’s Development Director, David Scorey said: “Eyewitness has been a tremendous success since we introduced it internally almost two years ago. The scheme has worked well on the Arun Valley Line and now we look forward to even better results now that we are asking our passengers on the West Coastway to tell us about low-level crime they have witnessed.”
Passengers witnessing crime between Hove and Warblington stations can report what they’ve seen, where they saw it, when they saw it and a brief description of the offender(s) by sending an e-mail to the dedicated address found on posters at leaflets at staffed stations between the two stations.
27-02-12
Partnership delivers station travel plan for North Walsham
A partnership between train operator Greater Anglia, Norfolk County Council, North Norfolk District Council and the Bittern Line Community Rail Partnership (CRP) to deliver a Station Travel Plan for North Walsham station made further progress on Friday, 24 February 2012 with the unveiling by Councillor John Lee, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Environment at North Norfolk District Council of a new cycle shelter and improved information boards. A new ‘Getting to the station leaflet’ has also been produced.
These are the first actions to be implemented through the Station Travel Plan initiative for North Walsham. Further improvements have been identified including improved marketing of the train service, replacement of the waiting shelters and information screens and upgrades to station lighting.
Station Travel Plans have been used widely across the country to encourage more people to travel by train, to increase the use of sustainable modes of transport for access to the station and to improve community engagement with the local railway. An initial study was carried out by the CRP with support from the other partners including valuable input from local volunteers in identifying an Action Plan of recommendations.
Councillor John Lee, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Environment at North Norfolk District Council said: “The Bittern Line is an important part of life in North Norfolk; our residents use it for work, business and leisure and the Council is pleased to have worked on this exciting project which aims to get more people travelling to North Walsham station sustainably and using the rail service.”
Andrew Goodrum, Customer Service Director, Greater Anglia said: “The Station Travel Plan for North Walsham is already delivering passenger benefits and we are determined to further improve community engagement and partnership initiatives at stations like North Walsham to encourage more use and greater awareness of local train services.”
Graham Plant, Cabinet member for Planning and Transportation, Norfolk County Council said: “These may only be the first steps in implementing the Station Travel Plan, but with fuel prices sky high, they are just the sort of improvements that will encourage people to leave the car at home and switch to cycling or walking to the railway station. This is an excellent initiative that is helping connect the railway to the communities it serves."
These are the first actions to be implemented through the Station Travel Plan initiative for North Walsham. Further improvements have been identified including improved marketing of the train service, replacement of the waiting shelters and information screens and upgrades to station lighting.
Station Travel Plans have been used widely across the country to encourage more people to travel by train, to increase the use of sustainable modes of transport for access to the station and to improve community engagement with the local railway. An initial study was carried out by the CRP with support from the other partners including valuable input from local volunteers in identifying an Action Plan of recommendations.
Councillor John Lee, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Environment at North Norfolk District Council said: “The Bittern Line is an important part of life in North Norfolk; our residents use it for work, business and leisure and the Council is pleased to have worked on this exciting project which aims to get more people travelling to North Walsham station sustainably and using the rail service.”
Andrew Goodrum, Customer Service Director, Greater Anglia said: “The Station Travel Plan for North Walsham is already delivering passenger benefits and we are determined to further improve community engagement and partnership initiatives at stations like North Walsham to encourage more use and greater awareness of local train services.”
Graham Plant, Cabinet member for Planning and Transportation, Norfolk County Council said: “These may only be the first steps in implementing the Station Travel Plan, but with fuel prices sky high, they are just the sort of improvements that will encourage people to leave the car at home and switch to cycling or walking to the railway station. This is an excellent initiative that is helping connect the railway to the communities it serves."
24-02-12
GBRf win major Crossrail contract
Crossrail tunnelling contractor BFK have awarded GB Railfreight (GBRf) a major contract to move over one million tonnes of excavated material from a tunnel portal at Westbourne Park in west London to Northfleet in Kent.
The two-year contract, starting in spring 2012, will see GBRf run more than 860 Class 66 hauled trains of JNA bogie ballast box wagons between west London Westbourne Park and Kent.
GBRf MD John Smith expressed his delight at the contract win. He said: “I’m delighted that GBRf has secured this major contract with the Crossrail project. This is an important win for GBRf as it shows yet again that we have the capability and resources to work on major projects and deliver a quality service.”
The deal is also great news for the environment with rail removing at least 50,000 lorry movements from central London.
GBRf plans to use up to two rakes of 27 JNAs, which it will hire from VTG. Two Class 66 locomotives will be dedicated to the Crossrail project contract.
The freight haulier expects to run its first trial train in February from London to Northfleet and will involve using a recently reinstated freight link from the North Kent Line to test the track for the first time.
The new freight link has been re-instated specifically to assist with the removal of excavated material from Crossrail’s western tunnels. The project to reinstate the freight line was overseen by Lafarge who own the Northfleet site. Excavated material from the Crossrail western running tunnels will be stockpiled at Northfleet pending transfer by ship to regeneration sites including a new 1,500 acre RSPB nature reserve at Wallasea Island in Essex.
When the contract begins, excavated material from the tunnels will be loaded into wagons by conveyor belt at Westbourne Park and taken to Northfleet.
The two-year contract, starting in spring 2012, will see GBRf run more than 860 Class 66 hauled trains of JNA bogie ballast box wagons between west London Westbourne Park and Kent.
GBRf MD John Smith expressed his delight at the contract win. He said: “I’m delighted that GBRf has secured this major contract with the Crossrail project. This is an important win for GBRf as it shows yet again that we have the capability and resources to work on major projects and deliver a quality service.”
The deal is also great news for the environment with rail removing at least 50,000 lorry movements from central London.
GBRf plans to use up to two rakes of 27 JNAs, which it will hire from VTG. Two Class 66 locomotives will be dedicated to the Crossrail project contract.
The freight haulier expects to run its first trial train in February from London to Northfleet and will involve using a recently reinstated freight link from the North Kent Line to test the track for the first time.
The new freight link has been re-instated specifically to assist with the removal of excavated material from Crossrail’s western tunnels. The project to reinstate the freight line was overseen by Lafarge who own the Northfleet site. Excavated material from the Crossrail western running tunnels will be stockpiled at Northfleet pending transfer by ship to regeneration sites including a new 1,500 acre RSPB nature reserve at Wallasea Island in Essex.
When the contract begins, excavated material from the tunnels will be loaded into wagons by conveyor belt at Westbourne Park and taken to Northfleet.
24-02-12
Prince Charles visits Bombardier Derby
Employees of Bombardier’s manufacturing site in Derby welcomed His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales on 24 Fenruary 2012, as part of a tour of the region to show his support for British manufacturing. Bombardier’s Derby site is the UK’s only rolling stock manufacturing facility and one of the UK’s leading centres of engineering excellence.
The Prince spent more than an hour at the site, where he met key members of staff, including engineers and project and manufacturing team members, as well as local officials.
He was hosted by Sir Neville Simms, Non-Executive Chairman of Bombardier Transportation UK, and given a tour of the site by Dr Francis Paonessa, President of UK Rolling Stock, to view the full scope of the manufacturing process, including the design, construction and test areas. In addition to meeting engineers, The Prince was introduced to young apprentices
who are part of the Bombardier Apprentice Scheme.
The Midlands based site in the UK is home to a broad range of products and technologies, including the award-winning BOMBARDIER ELECTROSTAR trains and the latest BOMBARDIER MOVIA metro cars for London Underground. On the site’s test track, The Prince had the opportunity to drive one of the advanced underground trains being delivered for the Sub-Surface (Circle, District, Hammersmith and City, and Metropolitan) lines.
Bombardier is supplying more than 1,770 of its globally renowned metro cars as well as new signalling systems to London Underground – currently the biggest rail system upgrade in the world.
Sir Neville Simms said: “Our Derby plant is a key part of Bombardier’s UK operations. Here we produce world class, innovative and highly reliable transport technologies. We greatly appreciate The Prince of Wales visiting our site today to allow us to showcase this facility, our people and our strong pedigree in UK manufacturing.”
The Prince spent more than an hour at the site, where he met key members of staff, including engineers and project and manufacturing team members, as well as local officials.
He was hosted by Sir Neville Simms, Non-Executive Chairman of Bombardier Transportation UK, and given a tour of the site by Dr Francis Paonessa, President of UK Rolling Stock, to view the full scope of the manufacturing process, including the design, construction and test areas. In addition to meeting engineers, The Prince was introduced to young apprentices
who are part of the Bombardier Apprentice Scheme.
The Midlands based site in the UK is home to a broad range of products and technologies, including the award-winning BOMBARDIER ELECTROSTAR trains and the latest BOMBARDIER MOVIA metro cars for London Underground. On the site’s test track, The Prince had the opportunity to drive one of the advanced underground trains being delivered for the Sub-Surface (Circle, District, Hammersmith and City, and Metropolitan) lines.
Bombardier is supplying more than 1,770 of its globally renowned metro cars as well as new signalling systems to London Underground – currently the biggest rail system upgrade in the world.
Sir Neville Simms said: “Our Derby plant is a key part of Bombardier’s UK operations. Here we produce world class, innovative and highly reliable transport technologies. We greatly appreciate The Prince of Wales visiting our site today to allow us to showcase this facility, our people and our strong pedigree in UK manufacturing.”
24-02-12
Crystal Palace improvement work starts
Three new lifts from the ticket hall to platforms will make Crystal Palace station step free by next year. While upgrade and renovation will preserve and highlight the original Victorian features of this historic station.
Work to upgrade London Overground’s Crystal Palace station and make it fully accessible will begin in the next few weeks, Transport for London (TfL) announced on 24 February 2012.
When all work is complete, the 11,000 passengers using the station each day will benefit from three new lifts from ticket hall to platform level, improved CCTV, customer information screens, a PA system, and new signage following a complete station refurbishment.
The Grade II listed ticket hall of the historic station will be refurbished during the summer of 2012 with the remainder of the work completed in 2013. TfL has signed a £3.5m contract with Mansell as the main contractor for the project, which is expected to provide work for approximately 150 people during construction.
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: “This work is vital to improve the journeys of thousands of passengers travelling through south London every day. It will transform this historic station, bringing it bang up to date and mean families with buggies and those with disabilities will have a much improved journey.”
TfL’s Chief Operating Officer for Rail, Howard Smith said: “Crystal Palace is a wonderful example of Victorian station architecture and has real historical significance. This is a great opportunity to restore it to its original grandeur and at the same time bring it into the 21st Century with full accessibility from the ticket hall to the platforms.”
The station was originally built in 1854 to serve visitors to the nearby spectacular Crystal Palace building relocated from the Hyde Park Great Exhibition of 1851. Its refurbishment is part of the Mayor of London’s record level of Victorian-style investment in London’s transport infrastructure, which includes a huge programme of upgrade work on the Tube and rail networks.
Five other London Overground stations are also being made step free following TfL securing £5m from the Department for Transport’s Access for All scheme. They are Hampstead Heath, West Hampstead, Kensal Rise, South Tottenham and Blackhorse Road.
Work to upgrade London Overground’s Crystal Palace station and make it fully accessible will begin in the next few weeks, Transport for London (TfL) announced on 24 February 2012.
When all work is complete, the 11,000 passengers using the station each day will benefit from three new lifts from ticket hall to platform level, improved CCTV, customer information screens, a PA system, and new signage following a complete station refurbishment.
The Grade II listed ticket hall of the historic station will be refurbished during the summer of 2012 with the remainder of the work completed in 2013. TfL has signed a £3.5m contract with Mansell as the main contractor for the project, which is expected to provide work for approximately 150 people during construction.
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: “This work is vital to improve the journeys of thousands of passengers travelling through south London every day. It will transform this historic station, bringing it bang up to date and mean families with buggies and those with disabilities will have a much improved journey.”
TfL’s Chief Operating Officer for Rail, Howard Smith said: “Crystal Palace is a wonderful example of Victorian station architecture and has real historical significance. This is a great opportunity to restore it to its original grandeur and at the same time bring it into the 21st Century with full accessibility from the ticket hall to the platforms.”
The station was originally built in 1854 to serve visitors to the nearby spectacular Crystal Palace building relocated from the Hyde Park Great Exhibition of 1851. Its refurbishment is part of the Mayor of London’s record level of Victorian-style investment in London’s transport infrastructure, which includes a huge programme of upgrade work on the Tube and rail networks.
Five other London Overground stations are also being made step free following TfL securing £5m from the Department for Transport’s Access for All scheme. They are Hampstead Heath, West Hampstead, Kensal Rise, South Tottenham and Blackhorse Road.
23-02-12
More first Clas Passengers on East Coast
Train operator East Coast’s complimentary food and drinks service and new timetable has helped to achieve the highest number of First Class journeys for five years.
East Coast’s figures also show that between the end of May 2011 and 4 February 2012, passenger journeys made in First Class rose by 21% compared with the same period in 2010-11 – representing an additional 253,000 passenger journeys in First Class.
Journey numbers in First Class on East Coast’s busiest route between Leeds and London have been rising even faster. Between the end of May 2011 and 4 February 2012, the number of First Class journeys made on this route was up by 31% compared with the same months in 2010-11.
The train operator’s flagship capital-to-capital route linking London and Edinburgh, saw an even larger 36% rise in First Class journeys, again between the end of May 2011 and 4 February 2012, compared with the same months in 2010-11.
Business travellers on the key battleground route with the airlines, ditched the ‘plane for the train with East Coast’s offering many advantages – city centre to centre travel, complimentary Wi-Fi and the new complimentary food and drinks service, plus more services including a ‘Flying Scotsman’ prestige express linking the Scottish and English capitals in just four hours.
In contrast, East Coast First Class journeys grew by 3% in the entire year from April 2010 to March 2011, before the new First Class service was introduced.
East Coast Managing Director Karen Boswell said: “These new figures confirm that the increase in passenger journeys we saw within weeks of the launch of the new First Class customer service was only the beginning. Since then we’ve seen impressive passenger numbers in First Class – now at the highest for five years – showing that not only are many people voting with their feet and trying us out, but that they are coming back for more. A significant proportion of the First Class journey growth is coming from the sale of our best-value First Advance tickets, which demonstrates that our competitive fares and good customer service make a winning combination. Following this good start, we’ll continue to work hard to improve the consistency of our customer service – and welcome more people on-board in First Class.”
East Coast launched substantial improvements to its First Class customer service from Sunday 22 May 2011, including a new complimentary food and drinks service, featuring hot meals on weekday morning and evening trains, and a new Quiet Coach. From the same date, East Coast also introduced its new timetable, adding 117 extra services every week and more than three million additional seats to the timetable. The timetable also reintroduced return services from London to Harrogate for the first time in 20 years, and a new daily service between Lincoln and London.
East Coast’s figures also show that between the end of May 2011 and 4 February 2012, passenger journeys made in First Class rose by 21% compared with the same period in 2010-11 – representing an additional 253,000 passenger journeys in First Class.
Journey numbers in First Class on East Coast’s busiest route between Leeds and London have been rising even faster. Between the end of May 2011 and 4 February 2012, the number of First Class journeys made on this route was up by 31% compared with the same months in 2010-11.
The train operator’s flagship capital-to-capital route linking London and Edinburgh, saw an even larger 36% rise in First Class journeys, again between the end of May 2011 and 4 February 2012, compared with the same months in 2010-11.
Business travellers on the key battleground route with the airlines, ditched the ‘plane for the train with East Coast’s offering many advantages – city centre to centre travel, complimentary Wi-Fi and the new complimentary food and drinks service, plus more services including a ‘Flying Scotsman’ prestige express linking the Scottish and English capitals in just four hours.
In contrast, East Coast First Class journeys grew by 3% in the entire year from April 2010 to March 2011, before the new First Class service was introduced.
East Coast Managing Director Karen Boswell said: “These new figures confirm that the increase in passenger journeys we saw within weeks of the launch of the new First Class customer service was only the beginning. Since then we’ve seen impressive passenger numbers in First Class – now at the highest for five years – showing that not only are many people voting with their feet and trying us out, but that they are coming back for more. A significant proportion of the First Class journey growth is coming from the sale of our best-value First Advance tickets, which demonstrates that our competitive fares and good customer service make a winning combination. Following this good start, we’ll continue to work hard to improve the consistency of our customer service – and welcome more people on-board in First Class.”
East Coast launched substantial improvements to its First Class customer service from Sunday 22 May 2011, including a new complimentary food and drinks service, featuring hot meals on weekday morning and evening trains, and a new Quiet Coach. From the same date, East Coast also introduced its new timetable, adding 117 extra services every week and more than three million additional seats to the timetable. The timetable also reintroduced return services from London to Harrogate for the first time in 20 years, and a new daily service between Lincoln and London.
23-02-12
Spring start for Romsey A27 bridge replacement
A three-month project to replace the bridge in Romsey which carries the A27 (Southampton Road) over the railway to enable larger freight containers to be transported by rail is scheduled to start on Saturday 31 March 2012.
The work, which will require the road to be closed, was originally scheduled to start in December 2011, but after concerns were raised by the council, MPs and businesses about the impact this would have on the busy Christmas trading period, Network Rail agreed to defer the work until the Spring.
Richard O’Brien, Network Rail’s route managing director for Wessex, said: “Ashfield bridge in Romsey is one a number of structures we’re upgrading to provide an alternative route for freight containers out of Southampton docks for those occasions when we carry out improvement works to the main line. With thousands of businesses around the country relying on the railway to receive deliveries of food, clothing, electronics and other consumer products to stock their shelves, it is vital we provide the infrastructure to allow the quick, reliable, green and cost efficient movement of these goods. There is never a good time to carry out such a significant piece of work on a bridge which carries one of the main roads between Romsey and Southampton. We have worked with the councils, police, emergency services and community representatives to put in place a plan which will keep disruption to a minimum and thank people in advance for their patience while we carry out this work which will ultimately benefit the local economy.”
Councillor Mel Kendal, executive member for environment and transport at Hampshire County Council, said; “Any road closure will, unfortunately, cause a certain amount of disruption, but I would like to reassure Romsey’s residents that we’ve been working closely with Network Rail, Test Valley Borough Council, Southampton City Council and the Highways Agency to find the most suitable diversion route while Network Rail carry out their works to Ashfield Bridge to accommodate larger freight vehicles. We have also managed to arrange for other works being carried out by Test Valley Borough Council and the Broadlands Estate to take place at the same time, saving a number of weeks’ disruption which would have been the case had these been done separately.”
Network Rail has worked with Hampshire County Council to devise a diversionary route. Temporary road signs will be installed from 22 February to provide as much notice of the work as possible for members of the public. Diversion routes will be put in place using the M27 between junctions 2 and 3, and for vehicles not permitted to use the motorway, the diversion will be on the A3090 from Romsey to Ower, the A36 to Totton and the A3057 back to Ashfield.
The bridge replacement at Romsey is part of a project to upgrade the route from Southampton to Basingstoke via Romsey and Andover, in addition to the Eastleigh to Romsey line, to transport larger, 9’6” high-cube freight containers by train more efficiently. The works require 17 bridges to be knocked down and rebuilt; the track to be altered at 11 locations and station canopies at Andover, Romsey and Whitchurch to be adjusted. Two redundant bridges will be demolished without being replaced and three further bridges will be modified without having to rebuild them.
The work, which will require the road to be closed, was originally scheduled to start in December 2011, but after concerns were raised by the council, MPs and businesses about the impact this would have on the busy Christmas trading period, Network Rail agreed to defer the work until the Spring.
Richard O’Brien, Network Rail’s route managing director for Wessex, said: “Ashfield bridge in Romsey is one a number of structures we’re upgrading to provide an alternative route for freight containers out of Southampton docks for those occasions when we carry out improvement works to the main line. With thousands of businesses around the country relying on the railway to receive deliveries of food, clothing, electronics and other consumer products to stock their shelves, it is vital we provide the infrastructure to allow the quick, reliable, green and cost efficient movement of these goods. There is never a good time to carry out such a significant piece of work on a bridge which carries one of the main roads between Romsey and Southampton. We have worked with the councils, police, emergency services and community representatives to put in place a plan which will keep disruption to a minimum and thank people in advance for their patience while we carry out this work which will ultimately benefit the local economy.”
Councillor Mel Kendal, executive member for environment and transport at Hampshire County Council, said; “Any road closure will, unfortunately, cause a certain amount of disruption, but I would like to reassure Romsey’s residents that we’ve been working closely with Network Rail, Test Valley Borough Council, Southampton City Council and the Highways Agency to find the most suitable diversion route while Network Rail carry out their works to Ashfield Bridge to accommodate larger freight vehicles. We have also managed to arrange for other works being carried out by Test Valley Borough Council and the Broadlands Estate to take place at the same time, saving a number of weeks’ disruption which would have been the case had these been done separately.”
Network Rail has worked with Hampshire County Council to devise a diversionary route. Temporary road signs will be installed from 22 February to provide as much notice of the work as possible for members of the public. Diversion routes will be put in place using the M27 between junctions 2 and 3, and for vehicles not permitted to use the motorway, the diversion will be on the A3090 from Romsey to Ower, the A36 to Totton and the A3057 back to Ashfield.
The bridge replacement at Romsey is part of a project to upgrade the route from Southampton to Basingstoke via Romsey and Andover, in addition to the Eastleigh to Romsey line, to transport larger, 9’6” high-cube freight containers by train more efficiently. The works require 17 bridges to be knocked down and rebuilt; the track to be altered at 11 locations and station canopies at Andover, Romsey and Whitchurch to be adjusted. Two redundant bridges will be demolished without being replaced and three further bridges will be modified without having to rebuild them.
23-02-12
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23-02-12
Prime Minister inspects Crossrail TBM
The Prime Minister was joined by Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy to meet engineers and construction workers and to hear more about tunnelling preparations for Europe’s largest civil engineering project on 22 February 2012.
Construction of Crossrail’s western tunnels between Royal Oak and Farringdon is being undertaken by a UK joint venture comprising BAM Nuttal, Kier Construction and Ferrovial Agroman - the UK subsidiary of Spanish multinational Ferrovial. Over 150 people are currently employed at the Westbourne Park site.
Andrew Wolstenholme, Crossrail's Chief Executive said: “Crossrail is an infrastructure project of national significance. Tunnelling for the major new rail tunnels under London will get underway in just one month from now. Over 3,000 people are now employed on Crossrail with thousands more to be employed at the height of construction. Contracts worth £3bn have been awarded to-date providing a much-needed boost to the UK economy. At least 90 per cent of all Crossrail expenditure will be invested within the UK. Further high-value contracts will be awarded later this year including the main construction contracts for Liverpool Street and Tottenham Court Road stations.”
The first Crossrail TBM is due to undergo testing ahead of the start of tunnelling. Work is well underway to re-assemble the second TBM that will launch from Royal Oak Portal in April.
Next month, the first TBM will be launched into one of the twin bores at Royal Oak Portal tunnelling east towards Farringdon. A second TBM will subsequently be launched in April through the second bore. At over 140 metres long and weighing around 1,000 tonnes the TBMs will travel 6.4km (4 miles) eastbound under London via Paddington, Bond Street and Tottenham Court Road before reaching Farringdon in 2013.
This will be followed later this year by the launch of a further two TBMs from Limmo Peninsular in the Royal Docks that will travel a total of 8.3km (5 miles) towards Farringdon via Canary Wharf, Whitechapel and Liverpool Street.
Towards the end of 2012 another two TBMs will begin construction of the south-east section of the route, launching from Plumstead portal in the south-east and travelling a total of 2.6km to construct the Thames Tunnel. Two TBMs will also be used to create nearly 3km of twin-bore tunnels between Stepney Green and Pudding Mill Lane.
Each TBM is like an underground factory and as they move forward, precast concrete segments are assembled into rings which line the tunnel behind the TBMs. The excavated material is carried out on conveyer belts emerging at portals or shafts. Construction of the concrete segment factory for the western running tunnels between Royal Oak and Farringdon is now complete at Old Oak Common. The plant has begun manufacturing the 75,000 segments that will be required for the western tunnels.
A total of eight tunnel boring machines (TBMs) will construct 21km of new twin-bore tunnels (42km in total).
Construction of Crossrail’s western tunnels between Royal Oak and Farringdon is being undertaken by a UK joint venture comprising BAM Nuttal, Kier Construction and Ferrovial Agroman - the UK subsidiary of Spanish multinational Ferrovial. Over 150 people are currently employed at the Westbourne Park site.
Andrew Wolstenholme, Crossrail's Chief Executive said: “Crossrail is an infrastructure project of national significance. Tunnelling for the major new rail tunnels under London will get underway in just one month from now. Over 3,000 people are now employed on Crossrail with thousands more to be employed at the height of construction. Contracts worth £3bn have been awarded to-date providing a much-needed boost to the UK economy. At least 90 per cent of all Crossrail expenditure will be invested within the UK. Further high-value contracts will be awarded later this year including the main construction contracts for Liverpool Street and Tottenham Court Road stations.”
The first Crossrail TBM is due to undergo testing ahead of the start of tunnelling. Work is well underway to re-assemble the second TBM that will launch from Royal Oak Portal in April.
Next month, the first TBM will be launched into one of the twin bores at Royal Oak Portal tunnelling east towards Farringdon. A second TBM will subsequently be launched in April through the second bore. At over 140 metres long and weighing around 1,000 tonnes the TBMs will travel 6.4km (4 miles) eastbound under London via Paddington, Bond Street and Tottenham Court Road before reaching Farringdon in 2013.
This will be followed later this year by the launch of a further two TBMs from Limmo Peninsular in the Royal Docks that will travel a total of 8.3km (5 miles) towards Farringdon via Canary Wharf, Whitechapel and Liverpool Street.
Towards the end of 2012 another two TBMs will begin construction of the south-east section of the route, launching from Plumstead portal in the south-east and travelling a total of 2.6km to construct the Thames Tunnel. Two TBMs will also be used to create nearly 3km of twin-bore tunnels between Stepney Green and Pudding Mill Lane.
Each TBM is like an underground factory and as they move forward, precast concrete segments are assembled into rings which line the tunnel behind the TBMs. The excavated material is carried out on conveyer belts emerging at portals or shafts. Construction of the concrete segment factory for the western running tunnels between Royal Oak and Farringdon is now complete at Old Oak Common. The plant has begun manufacturing the 75,000 segments that will be required for the western tunnels.
A total of eight tunnel boring machines (TBMs) will construct 21km of new twin-bore tunnels (42km in total).
23-02-12
Station improvements take shape at Great Yarmouth
Greater Anglia’s Great Yarmouth station is benefiting from a recent facelift thanks to the attention of the local station team.
Greater Anglia’s Ann Kirkham and Jane McLeman, of the Great Yarmouth Customer Service team, together with colleagues from the Customer Service North team have worked to plant a vast array of seasonal flowers in hanging baskets and tubs to bring some late-winter cheer to the Norfolk station. The colourful plants and flowers were provided by local Norfolk firm Moulton Nurseries.
The new plants and flowers are just one element of a broader programme of planned activity to improve the environment at the station for the benefit of rail passengers and visitors to the station. This work includes a thorough deep clean of the station area, weeding, re-signage, re-marking of the car park and new display boards featuring local visitor information, produced in association with the RSPB. Key local visitor attractions such as ‘Pleasurewood Hills’ and ‘Sealife’ will also feature in new displays at the station from the Spring.
James Steward Greater Anglia’s Rural Area Manager said: “The flowers really brighten up the station, cheering up the station environment for everyone who visits. These new floral displays are just the first step in a range of improvements we have planned at Great Yarmouth station, including a thorough deep clean, weeding, a newly marked car park, some new signage and display boards which will both enhance the station environment and improve information provision for visitors”.
Great Yarmouth station is the terminus of the Wherry Lines, which connects this thriving seaside town with the historic City of Norwich, via the scenic Norfolk Broads.
Greater Anglia’s Ann Kirkham and Jane McLeman, of the Great Yarmouth Customer Service team, together with colleagues from the Customer Service North team have worked to plant a vast array of seasonal flowers in hanging baskets and tubs to bring some late-winter cheer to the Norfolk station. The colourful plants and flowers were provided by local Norfolk firm Moulton Nurseries.
The new plants and flowers are just one element of a broader programme of planned activity to improve the environment at the station for the benefit of rail passengers and visitors to the station. This work includes a thorough deep clean of the station area, weeding, re-signage, re-marking of the car park and new display boards featuring local visitor information, produced in association with the RSPB. Key local visitor attractions such as ‘Pleasurewood Hills’ and ‘Sealife’ will also feature in new displays at the station from the Spring.
James Steward Greater Anglia’s Rural Area Manager said: “The flowers really brighten up the station, cheering up the station environment for everyone who visits. These new floral displays are just the first step in a range of improvements we have planned at Great Yarmouth station, including a thorough deep clean, weeding, a newly marked car park, some new signage and display boards which will both enhance the station environment and improve information provision for visitors”.
Great Yarmouth station is the terminus of the Wherry Lines, which connects this thriving seaside town with the historic City of Norwich, via the scenic Norfolk Broads.
23-02-12
Get creative with c2c
National Express train operator c2c is on the hunt for a budding Picasso, Hockney and Banksy – or at least any would-be artists who want the chance to show off their talents on a very unusual ‘canvas’.
c2c wants to update three huge murals at Rainham station and is inviting people to send in their designs. The top three creations will be chosen by a panel of judges and will be seen by thousands of commuters and train passengers every year. The three murals are landscape and on both sides of the platform at the station.
c2c Area Station Manager Cassie Sutton said: “It isn’t often people get the chance to show their artwork like this, in locations where hundreds of people will see them every day. The current murals are in dire need of a facelift and we thought it would be great to get the local community involved in cheering up the station for our customers.”
If the artistic juices really flow people can submit as many entries as they want and they can be abstract, using images or photography, computer generated or sketched on paper. The three winners will each receive a Kindle as their prize from c2c which operates train services in East London and South Essex. The winning designs do not need to be to scale and will be fitted to the walls on vinyls.
Full details can be found at www.c2c-online.co.uk <http://www.c2c-online.co.uk> or designs can be emailed to c2c.competitions@nationalexpress.com or posted to c2c Rail, Marketing, 2nd Floor Cutlers Court, 115 Houndsditch, London EC3A 7BR. The competition closes at 17.00 on 6 April 2012.
c2c wants to update three huge murals at Rainham station and is inviting people to send in their designs. The top three creations will be chosen by a panel of judges and will be seen by thousands of commuters and train passengers every year. The three murals are landscape and on both sides of the platform at the station.
c2c Area Station Manager Cassie Sutton said: “It isn’t often people get the chance to show their artwork like this, in locations where hundreds of people will see them every day. The current murals are in dire need of a facelift and we thought it would be great to get the local community involved in cheering up the station for our customers.”
If the artistic juices really flow people can submit as many entries as they want and they can be abstract, using images or photography, computer generated or sketched on paper. The three winners will each receive a Kindle as their prize from c2c which operates train services in East London and South Essex. The winning designs do not need to be to scale and will be fitted to the walls on vinyls.
Full details can be found at www.c2c-online.co.uk <http://www.c2c-online.co.uk> or designs can be emailed to c2c.competitions@nationalexpress.com or posted to c2c Rail, Marketing, 2nd Floor Cutlers Court, 115 Houndsditch, London EC3A 7BR. The competition closes at 17.00 on 6 April 2012.
22-02-12
Arriva Trains Wales station upgrade work
Arriva Trains Wales have announced an exciting scheme of booking office refurbishments all across Wales. Work will be carried out at the following locations on the below dates;
* Runcorn East – 27 February 2012 to 5 March 2012 inclusive
* Wrexham General – 28 February 2012 to 7 March 2012 inclusive
* Leominster – 12 March 2012 to 23 March 2012 inclusive
* Machynlleth – 22 February 2012 (re-opening on 23 February 2012)
* Bangor – 23 February 2012 (re-opening on 24 February 2012)
A number of stations have already received the improvements and now enjoy much improved access for passengers using wheelchairs. These stations include; Barry, Cadoxton, Penarth, Neath, Llanelli, Haverfordwest, Merthyr Tydfil, Aberdare, Pengam, Ystrad Mynach, Aber, Porth, Radyr, Abergavenny, Holyhead.
During the period of refurbishment, tickets for advance travel will be unavailable to purchase from the ticket office, however staff will still be on hand to provide advice and tickets for travel on that day.
Unfortunately, ATW will be unable to accept payment by Electron or Solo cards at those booking offices during the period of refurbishment. Advance Purchase travel tickets can still be purchased online or by calling 0870 9000 773.
This scheme is funded by the Department for Transport (DfT) ‘Access for All’ programme and Arriva Trains Wales.
* Runcorn East – 27 February 2012 to 5 March 2012 inclusive
* Wrexham General – 28 February 2012 to 7 March 2012 inclusive
* Leominster – 12 March 2012 to 23 March 2012 inclusive
* Machynlleth – 22 February 2012 (re-opening on 23 February 2012)
* Bangor – 23 February 2012 (re-opening on 24 February 2012)
A number of stations have already received the improvements and now enjoy much improved access for passengers using wheelchairs. These stations include; Barry, Cadoxton, Penarth, Neath, Llanelli, Haverfordwest, Merthyr Tydfil, Aberdare, Pengam, Ystrad Mynach, Aber, Porth, Radyr, Abergavenny, Holyhead.
During the period of refurbishment, tickets for advance travel will be unavailable to purchase from the ticket office, however staff will still be on hand to provide advice and tickets for travel on that day.
Unfortunately, ATW will be unable to accept payment by Electron or Solo cards at those booking offices during the period of refurbishment. Advance Purchase travel tickets can still be purchased online or by calling 0870 9000 773.
This scheme is funded by the Department for Transport (DfT) ‘Access for All’ programme and Arriva Trains Wales.
22-02-12
First Great Western extends wi-fi coverage at stations
First Great Western is enhancing 23 stations with the addition of free WiFi access. The WiFi is facilitated by UK public access WiFi provider, The Cloud, and will beavailable on station platforms, concourses and in waiting rooms.
The installations planned for March 2012, will introduce WiFi to 13 stations across First Great Western routes – including Oxford, Ealing Broadway and Maidenhead – with a network that will provide a fast internet connection, allowing customers to
get online for travel information, reliable email access, and media streaming.
A revamp of existing Cloud WiFi installations is also planned for 10 further stations including Bristol, Reading and Bath.
First Great Western Station Contracts Manager Robert Jackson, said: “Travellers now expect to be able to access the internet wherever they are, especially to pass the time during their commutes. The popularity of WiFi – as seen in stations with existing connectivity – made the decision to expand and upgrade a very easy one to make. This deal with The Cloud enhances the WiFi network at those stations and extends it across many other busy stations, improving the service we provide to millions of passengers every year.”
Vince Russell, managing director at The Cloud, said: “Millions of people received smartphones, tablets and e-readers for Christmas and will want to make the most of them on their commute. WiFi provides an excellent and consistent connection which, as many travellers will recognise, is not always possible when travelling across the country. This new deal with First Great Western will mean millions of extra travellers will benefit from The Cloud’s WiFi service.”
The installations planned for March 2012, will introduce WiFi to 13 stations across First Great Western routes – including Oxford, Ealing Broadway and Maidenhead – with a network that will provide a fast internet connection, allowing customers to
get online for travel information, reliable email access, and media streaming.
A revamp of existing Cloud WiFi installations is also planned for 10 further stations including Bristol, Reading and Bath.
First Great Western Station Contracts Manager Robert Jackson, said: “Travellers now expect to be able to access the internet wherever they are, especially to pass the time during their commutes. The popularity of WiFi – as seen in stations with existing connectivity – made the decision to expand and upgrade a very easy one to make. This deal with The Cloud enhances the WiFi network at those stations and extends it across many other busy stations, improving the service we provide to millions of passengers every year.”
Vince Russell, managing director at The Cloud, said: “Millions of people received smartphones, tablets and e-readers for Christmas and will want to make the most of them on their commute. WiFi provides an excellent and consistent connection which, as many travellers will recognise, is not always possible when travelling across the country. This new deal with First Great Western will mean millions of extra travellers will benefit from The Cloud’s WiFi service.”
22-02-12
Art on the Underground launches Canary Wharf Screen at Tube station
Tube customers will be able to see films chosen by the British Film Institute and three leading UK film organisations on a large cinema style-screen at Canary Wharf Tube station from 1 March 2012.
As we welcome the world for the 2012 Games it is an exciting showcase of artists that help make this one of the great capitals of film-making said Boris Johnson, Mayor of London.
East End street parties and Soho at night are just some of the subjects explored in Canary Wharf Screen - a new motion picture screening programme commissioned by Art on the Underground, which the Capital's visitors, as well as commuters, will be able to enjoy.
With films from some of the best artists in the field of moving image, the year-long project will add to the cultural celebrations taking place throughout 2012 and underpin London's status as a major filmmaking capital.
It will include new digital commissions and rarely seen films from the last century.
Canary Wharf Screen will be presented on one of London's largest projection screens measuring 15 metres by eight metres, located in the vast ticket hall of Canary Wharf station.
As we welcome the world for the 2012 Games it is an exciting showcase of artists that help make this one of the great capitals of film-making said Boris Johnson, Mayor of London.
East End street parties and Soho at night are just some of the subjects explored in Canary Wharf Screen - a new motion picture screening programme commissioned by Art on the Underground, which the Capital's visitors, as well as commuters, will be able to enjoy.
With films from some of the best artists in the field of moving image, the year-long project will add to the cultural celebrations taking place throughout 2012 and underpin London's status as a major filmmaking capital.
It will include new digital commissions and rarely seen films from the last century.
Canary Wharf Screen will be presented on one of London's largest projection screens measuring 15 metres by eight metres, located in the vast ticket hall of Canary Wharf station.
21-02-12
Network Rail to sell NDS-Plant subsidiary
Network Rail Infrastructure Limited has announced it intends to sell its subsidiary, Network Rail (NDS-Plant) Limited.
The subsidiary was set up in November 2011 following Network Rail’s purchase of the rail division of Hydrex Equipment (UK) Ltd from its administrators, KPMG. The purchase, which was approved by the Office for Rail Regulation, included the transfer of employment of all rail division staff and ownership of over 300 road rail vehicles (RRVs).
Hydrex was the largest provider of RRVs to the rail industry and a key supplier to Network Rail and its infrastructure contractors. Network Rail’s purchase brought to an end an extended period of uncertainty for Hydrex’s employees, customers and suppliers, while providing continuity of business for the supply of heavy plant to the industry.
Martin Elwood, director of Network Rail’s National Delivery Service, said: “The purchase of Hydrex’s rail division secured hundreds of jobs and meant Network Rail and its partners could deliver the vast majority of planned maintenance, renewals and enhancements across the rail network over the busy Christmas and New Year period. My thanks go to the transferred Hydrex staff and the NDS-Plant management team for their efforts in ensuring this much-needed continuity. Our plan is to continue to deliver high levels of safety and performance while Network Rail seeks a suitable buyer for NDS-Plant.”
Network Rail is consulting directly with NDS-Plant staff, trade unions, customers, contractors and the Office for Rail Regulation regarding the proposed sale, which will be via an open tender process.
The subsidiary was set up in November 2011 following Network Rail’s purchase of the rail division of Hydrex Equipment (UK) Ltd from its administrators, KPMG. The purchase, which was approved by the Office for Rail Regulation, included the transfer of employment of all rail division staff and ownership of over 300 road rail vehicles (RRVs).
Hydrex was the largest provider of RRVs to the rail industry and a key supplier to Network Rail and its infrastructure contractors. Network Rail’s purchase brought to an end an extended period of uncertainty for Hydrex’s employees, customers and suppliers, while providing continuity of business for the supply of heavy plant to the industry.
Martin Elwood, director of Network Rail’s National Delivery Service, said: “The purchase of Hydrex’s rail division secured hundreds of jobs and meant Network Rail and its partners could deliver the vast majority of planned maintenance, renewals and enhancements across the rail network over the busy Christmas and New Year period. My thanks go to the transferred Hydrex staff and the NDS-Plant management team for their efforts in ensuring this much-needed continuity. Our plan is to continue to deliver high levels of safety and performance while Network Rail seeks a suitable buyer for NDS-Plant.”
Network Rail is consulting directly with NDS-Plant staff, trade unions, customers, contractors and the Office for Rail Regulation regarding the proposed sale, which will be via an open tender process.
21-02-12
Solar power lights up three Fife stations
Three ScotRail stations in Fife are generating their own solar power for the first time ever.
A total of 48 solar panels have been installed on the roofs of Dunfermline Town, Kirkcaldy and Leuchars stations. They will produce 3,300kWh of electricity at each site annually.
The panels are helping directly power lighting, heating and information signs at the stations by capturing the sun’s energy.
Alstair McGeachie, who has worked for ScotRail at Leuchars for seven years, said: “It is excellent news that Leuchars has been chosen, particularly as this is the first time ScotRail has used solar panels to help power its stations.”
Jackie Parker, who has been a ScotRail station staff member at Dunfermline Town for eight years, said: “I am delighted that our station is one of the first to benefit from the solar panels project.”
Stewart Cahill, ScotRail’s environmental compliance manager, said: “This is an exciting £50,000 project as part of ScotRail’s ongoing efforts to further enhance its environmental performance. By introducing the photovoltaic tiles in Fife, ScotRail is reducing its carbon emissions without impacting on the quality service we offer our customers.”
All power generated by the solar panels is being used at the stations, with none being sold back to the National Grid.
Transport Minister Keith Brown praised the ScotRail initiative. He said: "I am encouraged that ScotRail is making a positive contribution to carbon emissions reduction in Scotland and look forward to further similar projects to improve the environmental performance of Scotland's railway."
Four ScotRail stations across Scotland are benefitting from the train operator’s first ever roll-out of solar panels at stations. The fourth is Larbert in Stirlingshire
A total of 48 solar panels have been installed on the roofs of Dunfermline Town, Kirkcaldy and Leuchars stations. They will produce 3,300kWh of electricity at each site annually.
The panels are helping directly power lighting, heating and information signs at the stations by capturing the sun’s energy.
Alstair McGeachie, who has worked for ScotRail at Leuchars for seven years, said: “It is excellent news that Leuchars has been chosen, particularly as this is the first time ScotRail has used solar panels to help power its stations.”
Jackie Parker, who has been a ScotRail station staff member at Dunfermline Town for eight years, said: “I am delighted that our station is one of the first to benefit from the solar panels project.”
Stewart Cahill, ScotRail’s environmental compliance manager, said: “This is an exciting £50,000 project as part of ScotRail’s ongoing efforts to further enhance its environmental performance. By introducing the photovoltaic tiles in Fife, ScotRail is reducing its carbon emissions without impacting on the quality service we offer our customers.”
All power generated by the solar panels is being used at the stations, with none being sold back to the National Grid.
Transport Minister Keith Brown praised the ScotRail initiative. He said: "I am encouraged that ScotRail is making a positive contribution to carbon emissions reduction in Scotland and look forward to further similar projects to improve the environmental performance of Scotland's railway."
Four ScotRail stations across Scotland are benefitting from the train operator’s first ever roll-out of solar panels at stations. The fourth is Larbert in Stirlingshire
20-02-12
East Midlands installs ticket collection machines at Loughborough University
Students at Loughborough University will now find it even easier to travel by train as East Midlands Trains has installed a new ticket machine at their students union in Ashby Road. The new style ‘ticket on departure’ machine for collecting tickets will provide a quick and easy way for students or lecturers to book their tickets online and then collect them from the students union.
Jayne Moyses, Sales & Customer Relationship Manager for East Midlands Trains, said: “This is the first time East Midlands Trains has installed one of its ticket on departure machines at a site that isn’t a railway station. With many passengers now choosing to buy their tickets through our website, we wanted to provide even easier access to the 11,000 plus students at Loughborough University simply wanting to collect their pre-booked tickets. Passengers booking online at http://www.eastmidlandstrains.co.uk can already get access to the cheapest fares through our Best Fare Finder, and we’re pleased to have worked in partnership with Loughborough University to provide an opportunity for its students to collect their tickets more easily and quickly”.
Paul Barlow, Deputy Union Director, at Loughborough students union added “We welcome the arrival of the new East Midlands Trains ticket machine at our Students’ Union. Our busy students will no longer need to queue for tickets at the station if they’ve pre-booked them online. Picking up tickets from the new machine will save them time and booking online with East Midlands Trains will also potentially save them money as well”.
Loughborough University’s new style ticket collection machine has been supplied by Parkeon. The machines are also in place at Sheffield, Chesterfield, Nottingham, Derby, Loughborough, Leicester, Lincoln and St Pancras.
Jayne Moyses, Sales & Customer Relationship Manager for East Midlands Trains, said: “This is the first time East Midlands Trains has installed one of its ticket on departure machines at a site that isn’t a railway station. With many passengers now choosing to buy their tickets through our website, we wanted to provide even easier access to the 11,000 plus students at Loughborough University simply wanting to collect their pre-booked tickets. Passengers booking online at http://www.eastmidlandstrains.co.uk can already get access to the cheapest fares through our Best Fare Finder, and we’re pleased to have worked in partnership with Loughborough University to provide an opportunity for its students to collect their tickets more easily and quickly”.
Paul Barlow, Deputy Union Director, at Loughborough students union added “We welcome the arrival of the new East Midlands Trains ticket machine at our Students’ Union. Our busy students will no longer need to queue for tickets at the station if they’ve pre-booked them online. Picking up tickets from the new machine will save them time and booking online with East Midlands Trains will also potentially save them money as well”.
Loughborough University’s new style ticket collection machine has been supplied by Parkeon. The machines are also in place at Sheffield, Chesterfield, Nottingham, Derby, Loughborough, Leicester, Lincoln and St Pancras.
20-02-12
New Blackfriars underground station opens to the public
A larger and more accessible Blackfriars Underground station reopened for public on 20 February 2012 to accommodate more than 40,000 passengers every day.
The dramatic 60 per cent increase in passengers follows the redevelopment of Blackfriars Underground station which has been completely rebuilt over three years.
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson toured the station on re-opening day to see the improvements made to provide better connections between Tube and rail services, as well as to cater for growing passenger numbers.
New lifts and escalators make the station easier to access and a curved glass façade floods the spacious new entrance hall with natural light.
The upgrade is the latest in a series of improvements being delivered by Network Rail that are tripling the number of trains that run through Blackfriars, and central London, on the Thameslink route each hour.
Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: 'With its magnificent ticket hall, brand new lifts and escalators, and more than double the previous capacity, the rebirth of this central London station will improve the journeys of thousands of passengers every single day. An incredible amount of hard work and expertise has been invested in these improvements, and Blackfriars is now set to become a truly world-class station."
The new Underground station is part of a complete redevelopment of both the Tube and national rail parts of Blackfriars stations by Network Rail. Mainline platforms for national rail services now span the River Thames on a reconstructed Victorian rail bridge, making way for longer trains on the Thameslink route through central London.
The station can also now be accessed from the south bank of the river and a new entrance hall on the north bank provides convenient access to both Thameslink and London Underground services.
The mammoth project has also provided jobs for 13,000 people over the last three years, with 2,000 people working on the site each day at the busiest times.
Howard Collins, Chief Operating Officer at London Underground said: 'The re-opening of he newly renovated Tube station is fantastic news for our customers, who can now reap the benefits of the huge improvements that have taken place at Blackfriars. The 40,000 people who use the station every day is set to grow significantly and I'm sure that all who pass through will find that the improvements have been well worth the wait."
Laurence Whitbourn, Network Rail's senior programme manager for Blackfriars said: 'Rebuilding Blackfriars Underground station was a hugely complex engineering challenge; we excavated, demolished and rebuilt the whole station while Underground trains continued to run beneath our feet, and Thameslink services ran overhead. The new Underground station brings our plan for the whole of Blackfriars one step closer to completion. Both Tube and rail passengers at Blackfriars stand to benefit from a modern, accessible station; longer, more frequent Thameslink trains; and convenient connections between services."
Blackfriars is being rebuilt as part of the Thameslink Programme, which will see longer trains and more frequent services on the route from Bedford to Brighton through central London.
The rebuild of Blackfriars station will dovetail with improvements at Farringdon and other stations along the route, including the planned reconstruction of London Bridge, to provide a metro-style Thameslink service through central London, with trains running every two and a half minutes.
The dramatic 60 per cent increase in passengers follows the redevelopment of Blackfriars Underground station which has been completely rebuilt over three years.
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson toured the station on re-opening day to see the improvements made to provide better connections between Tube and rail services, as well as to cater for growing passenger numbers.
New lifts and escalators make the station easier to access and a curved glass façade floods the spacious new entrance hall with natural light.
The upgrade is the latest in a series of improvements being delivered by Network Rail that are tripling the number of trains that run through Blackfriars, and central London, on the Thameslink route each hour.
Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: 'With its magnificent ticket hall, brand new lifts and escalators, and more than double the previous capacity, the rebirth of this central London station will improve the journeys of thousands of passengers every single day. An incredible amount of hard work and expertise has been invested in these improvements, and Blackfriars is now set to become a truly world-class station."
The new Underground station is part of a complete redevelopment of both the Tube and national rail parts of Blackfriars stations by Network Rail. Mainline platforms for national rail services now span the River Thames on a reconstructed Victorian rail bridge, making way for longer trains on the Thameslink route through central London.
The station can also now be accessed from the south bank of the river and a new entrance hall on the north bank provides convenient access to both Thameslink and London Underground services.
The mammoth project has also provided jobs for 13,000 people over the last three years, with 2,000 people working on the site each day at the busiest times.
Howard Collins, Chief Operating Officer at London Underground said: 'The re-opening of he newly renovated Tube station is fantastic news for our customers, who can now reap the benefits of the huge improvements that have taken place at Blackfriars. The 40,000 people who use the station every day is set to grow significantly and I'm sure that all who pass through will find that the improvements have been well worth the wait."
Laurence Whitbourn, Network Rail's senior programme manager for Blackfriars said: 'Rebuilding Blackfriars Underground station was a hugely complex engineering challenge; we excavated, demolished and rebuilt the whole station while Underground trains continued to run beneath our feet, and Thameslink services ran overhead. The new Underground station brings our plan for the whole of Blackfriars one step closer to completion. Both Tube and rail passengers at Blackfriars stand to benefit from a modern, accessible station; longer, more frequent Thameslink trains; and convenient connections between services."
Blackfriars is being rebuilt as part of the Thameslink Programme, which will see longer trains and more frequent services on the route from Bedford to Brighton through central London.
The rebuild of Blackfriars station will dovetail with improvements at Farringdon and other stations along the route, including the planned reconstruction of London Bridge, to provide a metro-style Thameslink service through central London, with trains running every two and a half minutes.
20-02-12
Business awards for DB Schenker
DB Schenker Rail UK has won two major categories at the Rail Business Awards held in London on Thursday 16 February 2012.
The work to open High Speed 1, the UK's only European sized rail route, for rail freight, combined with the successful introduction of direct rail freight services from Poland to the UK using that route, saw DB Schenker Rail win the Railfreight Excellence award.
The judges were impressed with the determined approach DB Schenker Rail took towards opening up the first mainland European sized rail freight corridor in the UK, allowing new services to be introduced.
Derek Clark, an engineer for DB Schenker Rail who has delivered pioneering locomotive fuel saving initiatives, won the Railfreight Engineer of the Future award.
The judges liked his professionalism towards researching engineering practices outside the rail industry to improve the fuel utilisation of locomotives, helping to reduce costs and protect the environment.
As well as holding the title of Rail Freight Engineer of the Future, Derek will also receive a detailed training programme from award sponsor Electro Motive designed to develop his career, including two weeks training at their facility at La Grange in Chicago.
In the Internal Communications Excellence category, DB Schenker Rail was highly commended for its employee safety improvement programme Switch on to Safety, a campaign designed to enhance personal responsibility among the workforce for safety management.
Alain Thauvette, Chief Executive of DB Schenker Rail UK, said: "Opening High Speed 1 to rail freight and introducing the first service on that corridor from mainland Europe was a significant prize in itself. Winning the Railfreight Excellence award confirms that the approach we took was the right one for our customers and the rail freight industry. I am delighted that Derek Clark has been recognised for his outstanding commitment to engineering development and towards finding new solutions. For his service to customers alone, he deserves his title of Railfreight Engineer of the Future. We are also pleased that our employee engagement programme on safety management was highly commended. The work to improve safety never ends, and the judges have recognised the efforts our people are making to ensure they are always switched on to safety."
The work to open High Speed 1, the UK's only European sized rail route, for rail freight, combined with the successful introduction of direct rail freight services from Poland to the UK using that route, saw DB Schenker Rail win the Railfreight Excellence award.
The judges were impressed with the determined approach DB Schenker Rail took towards opening up the first mainland European sized rail freight corridor in the UK, allowing new services to be introduced.
Derek Clark, an engineer for DB Schenker Rail who has delivered pioneering locomotive fuel saving initiatives, won the Railfreight Engineer of the Future award.
The judges liked his professionalism towards researching engineering practices outside the rail industry to improve the fuel utilisation of locomotives, helping to reduce costs and protect the environment.
As well as holding the title of Rail Freight Engineer of the Future, Derek will also receive a detailed training programme from award sponsor Electro Motive designed to develop his career, including two weeks training at their facility at La Grange in Chicago.
In the Internal Communications Excellence category, DB Schenker Rail was highly commended for its employee safety improvement programme Switch on to Safety, a campaign designed to enhance personal responsibility among the workforce for safety management.
Alain Thauvette, Chief Executive of DB Schenker Rail UK, said: "Opening High Speed 1 to rail freight and introducing the first service on that corridor from mainland Europe was a significant prize in itself. Winning the Railfreight Excellence award confirms that the approach we took was the right one for our customers and the rail freight industry. I am delighted that Derek Clark has been recognised for his outstanding commitment to engineering development and towards finding new solutions. For his service to customers alone, he deserves his title of Railfreight Engineer of the Future. We are also pleased that our employee engagement programme on safety management was highly commended. The work to improve safety never ends, and the judges have recognised the efforts our people are making to ensure they are always switched on to safety."
20-02-12
Survey work for new turntable at Barry Rail Centre
Surveying work has been undertaken at the Barry Rail Centre for a new project that will see the installation of a new locomotive turntable at the Centre. It is hoped that the turntable will be operational in 2014.
The turntable project team is headed up by Chartered Civil Engineers John Buxton, the Managing Director of the Barry Rail Centre, and Rick Auger, both of whom played key roles in the installation of the highly successful turntable at Minehead on the West Summerset Railway. The turntable there had become a focal point for visitors to Minehead and the plan is to emulate this at Barry.
John Buxton, the Chairman of the Cambrian Group that now operates the Barry Rail Centre, said “We are delighted to have begun the process of installing this 1938 built turntable that was originally installed at Bricklayers Arms depot in South London. Once it is in place, we will be able to offer servicing and turning facilities for steam hauled charter trains from London, the Midlands and Bristol which has the potential to bring up to 600 tourists to Barry in each train".
The turntable, constructed by Cowans Sheldon, was originally saved by the Mid-Hants Railway in the 1970's, but was never installed on the line as no suitable site could be found. Cambrian acquired the turntable from the Mid-Hants Railway last year.
Cambrian took over the custodianship of the Barry Rail Centre in January 2011 on a 20 year lease from the Vale of Glamorgan Council.
John Buxton, added “Since taking control of the site we have been making steady improvements, operating passenger services, opening a new café as part of our Barry Tourist Railway brand, and working toward infrastructural improvements to the two miles of running line. The turntable was always a key part of our business plan, adding not only a useful addition to our own operations, but also, allied to our existing mainline connection, transforming Barry into a railway centre of national importance.”
The survey work undertaken has identified that a site at the rear of Barry Rail Centre’s New Works Building is most suitable. The location is situated conveniently close to Barry Rail Centre’s mainline connection. The scheme is now being developed to detailed design stage.
The turntable project team is headed up by Chartered Civil Engineers John Buxton, the Managing Director of the Barry Rail Centre, and Rick Auger, both of whom played key roles in the installation of the highly successful turntable at Minehead on the West Summerset Railway. The turntable there had become a focal point for visitors to Minehead and the plan is to emulate this at Barry.
John Buxton, the Chairman of the Cambrian Group that now operates the Barry Rail Centre, said “We are delighted to have begun the process of installing this 1938 built turntable that was originally installed at Bricklayers Arms depot in South London. Once it is in place, we will be able to offer servicing and turning facilities for steam hauled charter trains from London, the Midlands and Bristol which has the potential to bring up to 600 tourists to Barry in each train".
The turntable, constructed by Cowans Sheldon, was originally saved by the Mid-Hants Railway in the 1970's, but was never installed on the line as no suitable site could be found. Cambrian acquired the turntable from the Mid-Hants Railway last year.
Cambrian took over the custodianship of the Barry Rail Centre in January 2011 on a 20 year lease from the Vale of Glamorgan Council.
John Buxton, added “Since taking control of the site we have been making steady improvements, operating passenger services, opening a new café as part of our Barry Tourist Railway brand, and working toward infrastructural improvements to the two miles of running line. The turntable was always a key part of our business plan, adding not only a useful addition to our own operations, but also, allied to our existing mainline connection, transforming Barry into a railway centre of national importance.”
The survey work undertaken has identified that a site at the rear of Barry Rail Centre’s New Works Building is most suitable. The location is situated conveniently close to Barry Rail Centre’s mainline connection. The scheme is now being developed to detailed design stage.
17-02-12
First TransPennine Express gets top award
First TransPennine Express (FTPE) was 16 February 2012 named the Train Operator of the Year at the Rail Business Awards.
FTPE scooped the award at a ceremony in London with what judges described as an "impressive" entry. FTPE which operates services across the north of England and into Scotland began its franchise term in 2004. In July last year it was awarded an extension to its franchise agreement until 2015.
The train operator has continued to improve punctuality and reliability with a record public performance measure of 93 per cent and customer satisfaction levels reaching 89 per cent.
Over £260m has previously been invested in a fleet of brand new trains and all of FTPE's 30 managed stations have seen significant renovation with close to £20m being spent to date.
FTPE carries around 25 million passengers a year and the company has witnessed a decrease in the level of complaints received whilst also enjoying a 36 per cent improvement in instances of praise.
FTPE scooped the award at a ceremony in London with what judges described as an "impressive" entry. FTPE which operates services across the north of England and into Scotland began its franchise term in 2004. In July last year it was awarded an extension to its franchise agreement until 2015.
The train operator has continued to improve punctuality and reliability with a record public performance measure of 93 per cent and customer satisfaction levels reaching 89 per cent.
Over £260m has previously been invested in a fleet of brand new trains and all of FTPE's 30 managed stations have seen significant renovation with close to £20m being spent to date.
FTPE carries around 25 million passengers a year and the company has witnessed a decrease in the level of complaints received whilst also enjoying a 36 per cent improvement in instances of praise.
17-02-12
Refurbished Tyne & Wear Metrocars enter service
The first train of refurbished Tyne and Wear Metrocars entered service from Sunderland station on 15 February 2012, starting a run to Newcastle International Airport.
The first modernised train, made up of two refurbished Metrocars, boasts a completely new interior and sleek metallic grey and black colour scheme. It entered timetabled passenger service at 05.40 at Sunderland station and will operate throughout today on the line between Sunderland and Newcastle International Airport.
The train, made up of Metrocars No. 4041 Harry Cowans and No. 4072, is the first of Metro’s fleet of 90 trains to be refurbished as part of the £385m 'Metro all change modernisation programme' being delivered by Nexus, which owns and manages Metro.
The interior of the train has been redesigned. New seating, lighting and flooring have been installed, giving the train a cleaner, brighter and more modern appearance. The new layout allows for improved wheelchair access.
The new colour scheme still incorporates the iconic bright yellow brand colour of the Tyne and Wear Metro. The new livery will replace the current ‘red, green or blue’ Metro train liveries, which date back to the mid 1990s.
Director General of Nexus, Bernard Garner, said: “I’m pleased to say we now have the first two refurbished carriages in service as part of our £385m Metro all change modernisation programme. This is a significant investment in our rolling stock and passengers can look forward to brighter, cleaner and more modern looking trains, with a new colour scheme. The carriages have new seating, improved lighting and a slightly different lay out to make best use of the available space, which will improve wheelchair access.”
DBTW, which operates trains and stations on behalf of Nexus, is delivering, as part of its contract, the ‘three-quarter life’ refurbishment, which is being carried out by Wabtec in Doncaster, a company which has carried out similar projects for London Underground trains.
The refurbishment programme is being managed by DBTW against rigorous timescales, while ensuring it has no impact on the day-to-day operation of Metro, which requires more than 80 of the fleet at peak times.
The new train livery dovetails with the new grey uniforms issued to all Metro staff over the last few months.
The first modernised train, made up of two refurbished Metrocars, boasts a completely new interior and sleek metallic grey and black colour scheme. It entered timetabled passenger service at 05.40 at Sunderland station and will operate throughout today on the line between Sunderland and Newcastle International Airport.
The train, made up of Metrocars No. 4041 Harry Cowans and No. 4072, is the first of Metro’s fleet of 90 trains to be refurbished as part of the £385m 'Metro all change modernisation programme' being delivered by Nexus, which owns and manages Metro.
The interior of the train has been redesigned. New seating, lighting and flooring have been installed, giving the train a cleaner, brighter and more modern appearance. The new layout allows for improved wheelchair access.
The new colour scheme still incorporates the iconic bright yellow brand colour of the Tyne and Wear Metro. The new livery will replace the current ‘red, green or blue’ Metro train liveries, which date back to the mid 1990s.
Director General of Nexus, Bernard Garner, said: “I’m pleased to say we now have the first two refurbished carriages in service as part of our £385m Metro all change modernisation programme. This is a significant investment in our rolling stock and passengers can look forward to brighter, cleaner and more modern looking trains, with a new colour scheme. The carriages have new seating, improved lighting and a slightly different lay out to make best use of the available space, which will improve wheelchair access.”
DBTW, which operates trains and stations on behalf of Nexus, is delivering, as part of its contract, the ‘three-quarter life’ refurbishment, which is being carried out by Wabtec in Doncaster, a company which has carried out similar projects for London Underground trains.
The refurbishment programme is being managed by DBTW against rigorous timescales, while ensuring it has no impact on the day-to-day operation of Metro, which requires more than 80 of the fleet at peak times.
The new train livery dovetails with the new grey uniforms issued to all Metro staff over the last few months.
17-02-12
Eurostar integrates social media with real-time outdoor advertising build customer loyality
Eurostar, is launching Eurostar Live – a new live platform which will run across outdoor and digital media from next week.
Combining live content across 363 digital screens in London and the South East, it is the first time a major brand has adopted this form of marketing, in which social media is integrated with large-scale advertising.
The platform, which will go live on 23 February 2012, forms part of a new campaign promoting Eurostar's service to Amsterdam via Brussels. The Cloud and Compass has developed the platform, with Arena Media and Posterscope providing media planning and buying support and We Are Social delivering the social activation.
Running across numerous formats and with circa 4000 executions a day, Eurostar Live will be truly interactive - driven via Facebook and Twitter updates enabling unique executions. As a real-time and multi platform system, an image uploaded online can be re-purposed immediately to run on underground cross–track projections and digital executive channel LCD screens, and comments from bloggers can be live on screen in minutes.
Eurostar Live is the next phase of Eurostar's ongoing strategy to integrate social media across their business to help build customer loyalty. It was created as part of their focus on expanding their business to help travellers connect to exciting new destinations across Europe. The Amsterdam campaign will be underpinned by Eurostar Live content which will support the strapline 'Now from the heart of London to the soul of Amsterdam' created by Fallon.
Lionel Benbassat, Director of Marketing and Brand at Eurostar, said: "Social engagement needs to run through our entire business, with customers openly sharing their experiences to help inform other Eurostar travellers. We believe that in getting this right, we can in turn enhance the power of conventional channels to drive acquisition and customer loyalty. Our challenge is to ensure that social engagement runs through every customer touch point across the business, and the delivery of Eurostar Live is the first manifestation of that approach."
Henry Daglish, Deputy MD Arena Media, said: "We see Eurostar Live as the start of a new era. Through Eurostar's 'Opening the Way' proposition this is an opportunity to create a platform for which consumers can create meaningful conversation within Eurostar's brand positioning."
Combining live content across 363 digital screens in London and the South East, it is the first time a major brand has adopted this form of marketing, in which social media is integrated with large-scale advertising.
The platform, which will go live on 23 February 2012, forms part of a new campaign promoting Eurostar's service to Amsterdam via Brussels. The Cloud and Compass has developed the platform, with Arena Media and Posterscope providing media planning and buying support and We Are Social delivering the social activation.
Running across numerous formats and with circa 4000 executions a day, Eurostar Live will be truly interactive - driven via Facebook and Twitter updates enabling unique executions. As a real-time and multi platform system, an image uploaded online can be re-purposed immediately to run on underground cross–track projections and digital executive channel LCD screens, and comments from bloggers can be live on screen in minutes.
Eurostar Live is the next phase of Eurostar's ongoing strategy to integrate social media across their business to help build customer loyalty. It was created as part of their focus on expanding their business to help travellers connect to exciting new destinations across Europe. The Amsterdam campaign will be underpinned by Eurostar Live content which will support the strapline 'Now from the heart of London to the soul of Amsterdam' created by Fallon.
Lionel Benbassat, Director of Marketing and Brand at Eurostar, said: "Social engagement needs to run through our entire business, with customers openly sharing their experiences to help inform other Eurostar travellers. We believe that in getting this right, we can in turn enhance the power of conventional channels to drive acquisition and customer loyalty. Our challenge is to ensure that social engagement runs through every customer touch point across the business, and the delivery of Eurostar Live is the first manifestation of that approach."
Henry Daglish, Deputy MD Arena Media, said: "We see Eurostar Live as the start of a new era. Through Eurostar's 'Opening the Way' proposition this is an opportunity to create a platform for which consumers can create meaningful conversation within Eurostar's brand positioning."
17-02-12
Southern takes top award
Southern has won the overall Rail Business of the Year award at the prestigious Rail Business Awards, held in London on Thursday 16 February 2012. It also won the Environmental Innovation and Safety & Security Excellence awards.
On accepting the Rail Business of the Year award, Southern’s Managing Director Chris Burchell said: “I am thrilled that the 4,000 people who work at Southern and Gatwick Express have been recognised for all the hard work they do. I’m also delighted that our innovative work in environmental and security excellence has paid dividends.”
Environmental Innovation
Southern’s best ever reduction in waste and emissions was achieved in 2010/11 with a series of innovative projects such as the use of solar panels, smart metering, intelligent lighting at stations, rainwater harvesting, increased recycling and regenerative braking. The result of all this was a reduction in gas consumption of more than a third and a reduction in electricity consumption by more than 12%. Southern’s team of Environmental Champions was recognised for its work in helping to achieve these results by advocating green innovation and good working practices to staff across the business, making sure each employee understands how they can make a positive difference.
Safety & Security Excellence
Southern’s Safer Travel Team comprising Rail Neighbourhood Officers and British Transport Police Officers were cited for their work in reducing crime and improving safety on the Southern network but the stand-out feature in this award was the use of Southern’s low-level crime fighting tool, Eyewitness. This is an industry first scheme where staff and passengers using a smartphone can report incidences of low level crime such as anti-social behaviour as it happens to the Safer Travel Team, enabling it to respond quickly and effectively.
Southern was also highly commended for its ‘Making Every Journey Better’ staff engagement campaign in the Internal Communications Excellence category and in the Rolling Stock Excellence category for the refresh of its Class 313 trains.
After the ceremony, Mr Burchell added: “We’ve come so close so many times to winning the overall title and now that we’ve won, we won’t be complacent. We’ll continue our work to improve every aspect of our service so that our passengers are the real winners.”
On accepting the Rail Business of the Year award, Southern’s Managing Director Chris Burchell said: “I am thrilled that the 4,000 people who work at Southern and Gatwick Express have been recognised for all the hard work they do. I’m also delighted that our innovative work in environmental and security excellence has paid dividends.”
Environmental Innovation
Southern’s best ever reduction in waste and emissions was achieved in 2010/11 with a series of innovative projects such as the use of solar panels, smart metering, intelligent lighting at stations, rainwater harvesting, increased recycling and regenerative braking. The result of all this was a reduction in gas consumption of more than a third and a reduction in electricity consumption by more than 12%. Southern’s team of Environmental Champions was recognised for its work in helping to achieve these results by advocating green innovation and good working practices to staff across the business, making sure each employee understands how they can make a positive difference.
Safety & Security Excellence
Southern’s Safer Travel Team comprising Rail Neighbourhood Officers and British Transport Police Officers were cited for their work in reducing crime and improving safety on the Southern network but the stand-out feature in this award was the use of Southern’s low-level crime fighting tool, Eyewitness. This is an industry first scheme where staff and passengers using a smartphone can report incidences of low level crime such as anti-social behaviour as it happens to the Safer Travel Team, enabling it to respond quickly and effectively.
Southern was also highly commended for its ‘Making Every Journey Better’ staff engagement campaign in the Internal Communications Excellence category and in the Rolling Stock Excellence category for the refresh of its Class 313 trains.
After the ceremony, Mr Burchell added: “We’ve come so close so many times to winning the overall title and now that we’ve won, we won’t be complacent. We’ll continue our work to improve every aspect of our service so that our passengers are the real winners.”
17-02-12
Alstom to supply five more Regiolis regional trains to the Pays de la Loire Region
SNCF, on behalf of the Pays de la Loire Region, has placed an order with Alstom to supply five regional trains from the Coradia Polyvalent range at a price of €25 million. The Pays de Loire Region now operates 54 Alstom regional trains and has already ordered 15 Coradia Polyvalent trains with an average seating capacity of 216 (in a length of 72 metres): 10 hybrid dual-voltage trainsets and five electric dual-voltage trainsets.
In addition, the Pays de la Loire Region has also ordered 24 Citadis Dualis tram-trains, some of which have been in service on the Nantes-Clisson line since 15 June 2011. This order corresponds to an option exercised under the framework contract financed by the French regions, signed with the SNCF on 27 October 2009.
To date, 171 Coradia Polyvalent trainsets have been ordered by the regions of Alsace, Aquitaine, Auvergne, Basse-Normandie, Haute-Normandie, Lorraine, Midi-Pyrénées, Pays de la Loire, Picardie, Poitou-Charentes and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. In the long term, the framework contract should be applied to 1000 trainsets for a sum of over seven billion euros, and promises to boost the industrial activity of our French production sites.
The last order from the Pays de la Loire Region confirms the ability of the Coradia Polyvalent range to meet regional rail transport needs in terms of performance, energy savings, comfort and interoperability.
The first Regiolis train off the production line at the Alstom plant in Reichshoffen was presented to the French regions and the SNCF on 14 June 2011. The test phases are currently under way, in accordance with the project schedule. The first deliveries are due in 2013.
Coradia Polyvalent is entirely designed, manufactured and assembled on Alstom Transport’s sites in France: train engineering and assembly in Reichshoffen (Alsace); bogies in Le Creusot (Bourgogne); motors in Ornans (Franche-Comté); traction drives in Tarbes (Midi-Pyrénées); and onboard computing systems in Villeurbanne (Rhône-Alpes).
The highly modular Coradia Polyvalent range is a single-level regional train offering various technical configurations and passenger amenities. It can travel at up to 160 km/h in both its electric and hybrid versions and operates at two different voltages (25 kV and 1,500 V). It is also available in a cross-border version for operation on the German and Swiss rail networks at a voltage of 15 kV. Its platform-height floor provides travellers with optimal accessibility and full all-point visibility for improved security. Motor bogies are positioned at the ends of the carriages to limit vibration and noise levels.
The Coradia Polyvalent consumes about 15% less energy than its competitors – and hence less CO2 – and its design incorporates eco-friendly, sustainable materials. It is equipped with permanent magnet motors that are more compact and efficient than conventional electric motors. The technical choices incorporated into its design serve the two-fold purpose of facilitating maintenance and optimizing life-cycle costs.
Thanks to over 30 years’ experience in regional transportation, Alstom’s Coradia range of regional and suburban trains provides adapted solutions to the sharp rise in road traffic, both within cities and on motorways, and to continued suburban sprawl. Alstom has built over 3,000 regional trains in its French, German and Italian plants, which have already covered more than 4 billion kilometres.
In addition, the Pays de la Loire Region has also ordered 24 Citadis Dualis tram-trains, some of which have been in service on the Nantes-Clisson line since 15 June 2011. This order corresponds to an option exercised under the framework contract financed by the French regions, signed with the SNCF on 27 October 2009.
To date, 171 Coradia Polyvalent trainsets have been ordered by the regions of Alsace, Aquitaine, Auvergne, Basse-Normandie, Haute-Normandie, Lorraine, Midi-Pyrénées, Pays de la Loire, Picardie, Poitou-Charentes and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. In the long term, the framework contract should be applied to 1000 trainsets for a sum of over seven billion euros, and promises to boost the industrial activity of our French production sites.
The last order from the Pays de la Loire Region confirms the ability of the Coradia Polyvalent range to meet regional rail transport needs in terms of performance, energy savings, comfort and interoperability.
The first Regiolis train off the production line at the Alstom plant in Reichshoffen was presented to the French regions and the SNCF on 14 June 2011. The test phases are currently under way, in accordance with the project schedule. The first deliveries are due in 2013.
Coradia Polyvalent is entirely designed, manufactured and assembled on Alstom Transport’s sites in France: train engineering and assembly in Reichshoffen (Alsace); bogies in Le Creusot (Bourgogne); motors in Ornans (Franche-Comté); traction drives in Tarbes (Midi-Pyrénées); and onboard computing systems in Villeurbanne (Rhône-Alpes).
The highly modular Coradia Polyvalent range is a single-level regional train offering various technical configurations and passenger amenities. It can travel at up to 160 km/h in both its electric and hybrid versions and operates at two different voltages (25 kV and 1,500 V). It is also available in a cross-border version for operation on the German and Swiss rail networks at a voltage of 15 kV. Its platform-height floor provides travellers with optimal accessibility and full all-point visibility for improved security. Motor bogies are positioned at the ends of the carriages to limit vibration and noise levels.
The Coradia Polyvalent consumes about 15% less energy than its competitors – and hence less CO2 – and its design incorporates eco-friendly, sustainable materials. It is equipped with permanent magnet motors that are more compact and efficient than conventional electric motors. The technical choices incorporated into its design serve the two-fold purpose of facilitating maintenance and optimizing life-cycle costs.
Thanks to over 30 years’ experience in regional transportation, Alstom’s Coradia range of regional and suburban trains provides adapted solutions to the sharp rise in road traffic, both within cities and on motorways, and to continued suburban sprawl. Alstom has built over 3,000 regional trains in its French, German and Italian plants, which have already covered more than 4 billion kilometres.
17-02-12
Cooler London Underground stations on the way
London Underground has announced plans to lower the temperature on platforms at Green Park and Oxford Circus stations this summer thanks to the installation of new 'air handling' technology.
As part of an ongoing programme of work to cool the Tube work will begin later this month on the installation of air cooling units at both stations.
At Green Park station borehole cooling technology will be used. London Underground has already successfully drilled wells to source naturally cool water from deep below Green Park and will now install air cooling units that will use the water to cool the Victoria and Piccadilly line platforms.
At Oxford Circus station there are already air cooling units in the ticket hall however they will now be installed on every platform (Bakerloo, Central and Victoria lines).
The new units will use cool air provided by chiller units that will be installed on top of a building owned by Transport for London, which is adjacent to the station.
Morgan Sindall have been awarded the contract for work to install eight air cooling units at Green Park and Birse Metro have been awarded the contract to install 14 air cooling units as well as associated construction services at Oxford Circus.
The work will be project-managed by London Underground using tight controls to ensure the programme is delivered efficiently and with the minimum disruption for passengers.
David Waboso, Capital Programmes Director, said: 'Cooling the Tube is one of the greatest engineering challenges faced by London Underground. But these contracts will make a difference for passengers on the busy platforms at Green Park and Oxford Circus when work is complete this summer. We are investing millions to cool temperatures for passengers through a programme that will include the delivery of new air-conditioned s-stock trains, which were introduced on the Metropolitan line in 2010 but will also be rolled out across the Circle, Hammersmith & City and District lines.'
Isabel Dedring, Deputy Mayor of Transport, said: 'This work will be a welcome improvement for passengers using these stations. But it is just part of the work we are carrying out to cool the Tube, of which the most significant is the 22 air-conditioned trains currently in service with over 150 more to follow by 2016.'
As part of an ongoing programme of work to cool the Tube work will begin later this month on the installation of air cooling units at both stations.
At Green Park station borehole cooling technology will be used. London Underground has already successfully drilled wells to source naturally cool water from deep below Green Park and will now install air cooling units that will use the water to cool the Victoria and Piccadilly line platforms.
At Oxford Circus station there are already air cooling units in the ticket hall however they will now be installed on every platform (Bakerloo, Central and Victoria lines).
The new units will use cool air provided by chiller units that will be installed on top of a building owned by Transport for London, which is adjacent to the station.
Morgan Sindall have been awarded the contract for work to install eight air cooling units at Green Park and Birse Metro have been awarded the contract to install 14 air cooling units as well as associated construction services at Oxford Circus.
The work will be project-managed by London Underground using tight controls to ensure the programme is delivered efficiently and with the minimum disruption for passengers.
David Waboso, Capital Programmes Director, said: 'Cooling the Tube is one of the greatest engineering challenges faced by London Underground. But these contracts will make a difference for passengers on the busy platforms at Green Park and Oxford Circus when work is complete this summer. We are investing millions to cool temperatures for passengers through a programme that will include the delivery of new air-conditioned s-stock trains, which were introduced on the Metropolitan line in 2010 but will also be rolled out across the Circle, Hammersmith & City and District lines.'
Isabel Dedring, Deputy Mayor of Transport, said: 'This work will be a welcome improvement for passengers using these stations. But it is just part of the work we are carrying out to cool the Tube, of which the most significant is the 22 air-conditioned trains currently in service with over 150 more to follow by 2016.'
16-02-12
Croydon Tramlink shows off its new Stadler Rail 'Variobahn' Tram - UPDATED more pictures
TRCs Antony Christie attended the official press roll out of the first of six new Stadler Rail Variobahn trams at Croydon Tramlink's Therapia Lane depot on 15 February 2012. The sets will go into passenger service by the end of February, with the entire fleet scheduled to arrive at a rate of one a month enabling a full launch of new Line 4 service in June 2012.
When the new Line 4 opens, improved reliability on the Croydon to Wimbledon line is a key part of the projecr. The new service will run between Elmers End and Therapia Lane, here some trams will reverse via the depot.
Croydon Tramlink said the Stadler cars were needed to introduce the new service, but will not be dedicated to the line and will work over the entire network alongside with the current fleet of 24 Bombardier CR4000 vehicles.
Some structural alternations to station platform edges have been required to accommodate the new stock, which are formed of 100% low-floor vehicles. Therapia Lane depot has also been upgraded and expanded to provide more stabling sidings. All of the lines 118 drivers will be trained on the new stock, with conversion training taking around two days.
The £16m contract for the new Stadler trams was agreed in August 2011, and included a £3m contribution from Croydon Council. As a quick delivery was sought, the first three trams have been transferred from a existing order placed for Bergen, Norway. Some modifications were required for use in the UK.
Builders Stadler are to provide warranty support for the six trams for two years, with general maintenance undertaken by Bombardier who holds the current maintenance contract for the fleet. The contract with Stadler also includes an 'option' for up to eight more trams, with a stipulation that four trams must be ordered at a time.
When the new Line 4 opens, improved reliability on the Croydon to Wimbledon line is a key part of the projecr. The new service will run between Elmers End and Therapia Lane, here some trams will reverse via the depot.
Croydon Tramlink said the Stadler cars were needed to introduce the new service, but will not be dedicated to the line and will work over the entire network alongside with the current fleet of 24 Bombardier CR4000 vehicles.
Some structural alternations to station platform edges have been required to accommodate the new stock, which are formed of 100% low-floor vehicles. Therapia Lane depot has also been upgraded and expanded to provide more stabling sidings. All of the lines 118 drivers will be trained on the new stock, with conversion training taking around two days.
The £16m contract for the new Stadler trams was agreed in August 2011, and included a £3m contribution from Croydon Council. As a quick delivery was sought, the first three trams have been transferred from a existing order placed for Bergen, Norway. Some modifications were required for use in the UK.
Builders Stadler are to provide warranty support for the six trams for two years, with general maintenance undertaken by Bombardier who holds the current maintenance contract for the fleet. The contract with Stadler also includes an 'option' for up to eight more trams, with a stipulation that four trams must be ordered at a time.
Above: New Stadler Rail 'Variobahn' tram No. 2554 at Croydon Tramlink's Therapia Lane depot on 15 February 2012.
Antony Christie
Antony Christie
Above: Tram interior. Antony Christie
Above: Driving cab. Antony Christie
16-02-12
Latest punctuality figures published
Punctuality on the railways reached 91.4% during period 11, according to monthly performance data released on 16 February 2012 by Network Rail. The data for Britain's train services covers the period from 8 January 2012 - 4 February 2012. This compares to 90.3% for the same period last year and is the highest period 11 punctuality figure ever recorded. The moving annual average is now at 91.6%.
16-02-12
Construction of Midland Metro Snow Hill-New Street section to start
Construction can now begin on an extension to the Midland Metro from Snow Hill Station through the city centre to Birmingham New Street Station, Local Transport Minister Norman Baker announced on 16 Februray 2012.
The £128m scheme will also deliver a new fleet of trams to run on the extended route.
Norman Baker said: ‘This scheme will bring trams back to the heart of Birmingham, which is great news for both the city itself and the wider West Midlands. It will provide a new, sustainable transport choice for those wishing to reach the city centre’s bustling shopping streets and the emerging business district in Snow Hill. The scheme will also cut carbon and create growth by getting more people on to public transport, create 1,300 new jobs and deliver a £50m boost to the local economy.’
The Department for Transport will provide £75.4m towards the £128 million cost of the scheme which is being led by Centro, the region’s transport authority, in partnership with Birmingham City Council and the Black Country district authorities.
Today’s decision gives final approval for Centro to forge ahead and sign contracts for the new fleet of trams, a bigger maintenance depot at Wednesbury and for the construction of the city centre extension.
Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: ‘We are delighted to get the final go-ahead from Treasury and Ministers. Norman Baker has been a great advocate for this project and we will waste no time in pressing ahead with the construction of the extension which, together with the rebuilding of New Street Station, will transform our public transport network. Today’s announcement is marvellous news for passengers and represents a further shot in the arm for the Birmingham and Black Country economy.’
The £128m scheme will also deliver a new fleet of trams to run on the extended route.
Norman Baker said: ‘This scheme will bring trams back to the heart of Birmingham, which is great news for both the city itself and the wider West Midlands. It will provide a new, sustainable transport choice for those wishing to reach the city centre’s bustling shopping streets and the emerging business district in Snow Hill. The scheme will also cut carbon and create growth by getting more people on to public transport, create 1,300 new jobs and deliver a £50m boost to the local economy.’
The Department for Transport will provide £75.4m towards the £128 million cost of the scheme which is being led by Centro, the region’s transport authority, in partnership with Birmingham City Council and the Black Country district authorities.
Today’s decision gives final approval for Centro to forge ahead and sign contracts for the new fleet of trams, a bigger maintenance depot at Wednesbury and for the construction of the city centre extension.
Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: ‘We are delighted to get the final go-ahead from Treasury and Ministers. Norman Baker has been a great advocate for this project and we will waste no time in pressing ahead with the construction of the extension which, together with the rebuilding of New Street Station, will transform our public transport network. Today’s announcement is marvellous news for passengers and represents a further shot in the arm for the Birmingham and Black Country economy.’
16-02-12
Leap year babies travel free on Chiltern
It is well known that people born on leap years day only get one birthday every four years, so this year Chiltern Railways is going to give them an extra treat.
Anyone who is born on the 29 February can travel for free on any Chiltern Railways services and at anytime on the 29 February only.
To make use of this offer, you will need to show a photographic driving license or a passport on request of a ticket.
Anyone who is born on the 29 February can travel for free on any Chiltern Railways services and at anytime on the 29 February only.
To make use of this offer, you will need to show a photographic driving license or a passport on request of a ticket.
16-02-12
New UK punctuality record for c2c
National Express train operator c2c has once again set a new UK punctuality record for a franchised train operator according to official rail industry figures released today.
Network Rail’s figures show that c2c achieved a record breaking 96.9% for their Public Performance Measure (PPM) train service performance over the last 12 months up to 4 February 2012. In doing so it broke its own UK record for the highest annual punctuality by a franchised train operator (96.7%) which it achieved in 2010.
And in a ‘double whammy’ c2c also topped the latest four week period (also up to 4 February 2012) with 97.4% of trains on time – the highest PPM figures for the period and making c2c the best performing train operator in the country.
Julian Drury, Managing Director of c2c, said: “Obviously these figures are great news for c2c customers and show the continued hard work and attention to detail we put into providing the highest level of customer service that we can. c2c has been setting records for the past three years and this new record continues our upward year-on-year trend.
However we are not complacent and are determined to deliver further improvement. I can assure everyone we remain focused on delivering even more reliable and punctual services for the people of East London and South Essex.”
Earlier this year the latest National Passenger Survey (NPS) figures for Autumn 2011 from Passenger Focus showed c2c achieved 91% overall customer satisfaction – the fourth survey over the past two years in which c2c has achieved this score.
It also won the inaugural ‘Golden Whistle’ for the best punctuality amongst all train operators during 2009 with an average of 96.3% - this is a record the train operator has broken many times since then. As well as the UK record for annual punctuality c2c also holds the record for UK train operator punctuality for any four week period with 98.8% of trains achieving PPM.
Network Rail’s figures show that c2c achieved a record breaking 96.9% for their Public Performance Measure (PPM) train service performance over the last 12 months up to 4 February 2012. In doing so it broke its own UK record for the highest annual punctuality by a franchised train operator (96.7%) which it achieved in 2010.
And in a ‘double whammy’ c2c also topped the latest four week period (also up to 4 February 2012) with 97.4% of trains on time – the highest PPM figures for the period and making c2c the best performing train operator in the country.
Julian Drury, Managing Director of c2c, said: “Obviously these figures are great news for c2c customers and show the continued hard work and attention to detail we put into providing the highest level of customer service that we can. c2c has been setting records for the past three years and this new record continues our upward year-on-year trend.
However we are not complacent and are determined to deliver further improvement. I can assure everyone we remain focused on delivering even more reliable and punctual services for the people of East London and South Essex.”
Earlier this year the latest National Passenger Survey (NPS) figures for Autumn 2011 from Passenger Focus showed c2c achieved 91% overall customer satisfaction – the fourth survey over the past two years in which c2c has achieved this score.
It also won the inaugural ‘Golden Whistle’ for the best punctuality amongst all train operators during 2009 with an average of 96.3% - this is a record the train operator has broken many times since then. As well as the UK record for annual punctuality c2c also holds the record for UK train operator punctuality for any four week period with 98.8% of trains achieving PPM.
16-02-12
Make sure you have a valid ticket
Transport for London is increasing the penalty charge for non-payment on its services from £50 to £80 from this weekend (19 February 2012) as part of its ongoing commitment to deter and further reduce fare evasion on London’s transport network.
The increase in penalties will come into effect from Sunday 19 February 2012, and will cover all of TfL’s services in the capital, including London Underground, London Overground, London Buses, DLR and London Tramlink.
Customers are required to pay the correct fare for their journey and failure to do so could lead to a penalty or even prosecution, resulting in a criminal record and a fine of up to £1000. This rise will increase the deterrent effect of the penalty charge, which is part of TfL’s ongoing drive to combat fare evasion.
Fare evasion across all modes of transport is estimated to have cost TfL around £63 million last year. TfL is committed to protecting public money through detecting and investigating suspected fare evasion. Transport for London takes fare evasion extremely seriously and our efforts to clamp down on people who fail to pay has seen a reduction in the rate of fare evasion in recent years.
The new £80 penalty will be reduced to £40 if paid within 21 days.
Steve Burton, Director of Community Safety, Enforcement and Policing at TfL, said: “While the level of fare evasion on the network is low, it continues to cost Londoners millions of pounds every year. We therefore need to make the penalty charge more effective and the early payment reduction will encourage prompt payment. We know that our honest, fare paying passengers feel angry when they see others not paying for their journey and this should reassure them that we are tackling this issue head on. However, the simple way to avoid this penalty is to ensure you pay the correct fare for your journey in the first place.”
The increase in penalties will come into effect from Sunday 19 February 2012, and will cover all of TfL’s services in the capital, including London Underground, London Overground, London Buses, DLR and London Tramlink.
Customers are required to pay the correct fare for their journey and failure to do so could lead to a penalty or even prosecution, resulting in a criminal record and a fine of up to £1000. This rise will increase the deterrent effect of the penalty charge, which is part of TfL’s ongoing drive to combat fare evasion.
Fare evasion across all modes of transport is estimated to have cost TfL around £63 million last year. TfL is committed to protecting public money through detecting and investigating suspected fare evasion. Transport for London takes fare evasion extremely seriously and our efforts to clamp down on people who fail to pay has seen a reduction in the rate of fare evasion in recent years.
The new £80 penalty will be reduced to £40 if paid within 21 days.
Steve Burton, Director of Community Safety, Enforcement and Policing at TfL, said: “While the level of fare evasion on the network is low, it continues to cost Londoners millions of pounds every year. We therefore need to make the penalty charge more effective and the early payment reduction will encourage prompt payment. We know that our honest, fare paying passengers feel angry when they see others not paying for their journey and this should reassure them that we are tackling this issue head on. However, the simple way to avoid this penalty is to ensure you pay the correct fare for your journey in the first place.”
15-02-12
RAIB release report in accident at Torworth on 8 January 2011
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report into the driver of a tamper being struck by a passenger train at Torworth, Nottinghamshire, on 8 January 2011.
A full copy of the report is available here:
At about 23:55 on Saturday 8 January 2011, a driver walking to join a tamper track machine which was standing north of Torworth level crossing on the East Coast Main Line, was struck a glancing blow by a passenger train travelling at 100 mph (161 km/h). The tamper driver was alerted by the train’s horn and was jumping out of the way of the train.
The driver entered the railway at Torworth level crossing. He was working outside of his normal area of work and was unfamiliar with the location.
The RAIB investigation identified:
The tamper driver entered the railway in contravention of railway rules and his training and then walked on the track. He had also not received a safety briefing which he needed to access his tamper safely.
The driver assumed from visual cues at his entry point to the railway that the line he was walking on was closed to normal railway traffic.
The driver may have been unsettled by various difficulties he had faced preceding his entry on to the track which could have affected his decision making.
Train drivers often access work sites without having received a safety briefing and this is not prevented by railway rules.
The infrastructure contractor was using tamper staff from another area of the country and did not have arrangements to provide them with sufficient information for working outside of their normal area.
Since the accident Network Rail and its contractors have agreed and documented a process for train drivers and others, including tamper staff, entering work sites to receive a safety briefing.
As a consequence of this accident, the RAIB has made a recommendation to Network Rail and its contractors to bring about sustainable change in the way in which engineering train drivers and others, including tamper staff, access worksites. The recommended measures are intended to support the industry process for providing a safety briefing.
A full copy of the report is available here:
At about 23:55 on Saturday 8 January 2011, a driver walking to join a tamper track machine which was standing north of Torworth level crossing on the East Coast Main Line, was struck a glancing blow by a passenger train travelling at 100 mph (161 km/h). The tamper driver was alerted by the train’s horn and was jumping out of the way of the train.
The driver entered the railway at Torworth level crossing. He was working outside of his normal area of work and was unfamiliar with the location.
The RAIB investigation identified:
The tamper driver entered the railway in contravention of railway rules and his training and then walked on the track. He had also not received a safety briefing which he needed to access his tamper safely.
The driver assumed from visual cues at his entry point to the railway that the line he was walking on was closed to normal railway traffic.
The driver may have been unsettled by various difficulties he had faced preceding his entry on to the track which could have affected his decision making.
Train drivers often access work sites without having received a safety briefing and this is not prevented by railway rules.
The infrastructure contractor was using tamper staff from another area of the country and did not have arrangements to provide them with sufficient information for working outside of their normal area.
Since the accident Network Rail and its contractors have agreed and documented a process for train drivers and others, including tamper staff, entering work sites to receive a safety briefing.
As a consequence of this accident, the RAIB has made a recommendation to Network Rail and its contractors to bring about sustainable change in the way in which engineering train drivers and others, including tamper staff, access worksites. The recommended measures are intended to support the industry process for providing a safety briefing.
15-02-12
Bombaride'r ZEFIRO Very High Speed Train tops design awards
Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation has won the iF Product Design Award as well as the Good Design Award for its groundbreaking very high speed (VHS) train currently being developed for leading railway markets in Europe, Asia and North America. The ZEFIRO train combines aerodynamic efficiency with a distinctive appearance reflecting Bombardier’s state-of-the-art technologies.
The ZEFIRO platform forms the basis for the most economical and eco-friendly family of high speed and VHS trains. It combines the highest capacity in the industry with pioneering levels of passenger comfort and employs leading-edge technologies and advanced aerodynamics to reduce energy consumption. The technology exists to meet virtually any high speed requirement anywhere in the world.
The ZEFIRO high speed train platform can accommodate speed performance from 250-380 km/h (155-235 mph) and is highly flexible. ZEFIRO trains can significantly reduce travelling times between major cities and boost interregional economic growth.
The iF Product Design Award from Germany recognises design quality, finish, choice of materials, degree of innovation, environmental impact, functionality, safety as well as brand value. It is also the third time in five years that Bombardier has won the Good Design Award for its train design. The award is conferred annually by the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design together with the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.
“These prestigious awards are testament to the ZEFIRO VHS train’s innovative approach to very high speed travel,” said Michael Sohn, Teamleader Industrial Design, ZEFIRO project, Bombardier Transportation. “As one of the world’s fastest series-production trains, its design benefits from Bombardier’s long-term expertise in train specific aerodynamic research. As well as being extremely energy efficient, the train’s shaping of windows, lights, splitlines and graphics creates a distinctive appearance that sets new standards in the railway industry for sustainable transportation and passenger comfort.”
The unique aerodynamic design of the ZEFIRO train family leads to superior cross wind stability, aerodynamic drag and pressure pulses. Bombardier Transportation is the first company in Europe to develop and apply an aluminum carbody for driving cars as well as trailer cars in the high speed segment, resulting in reduced weight and lower track wear as well as full compliance with stringent safety requirements. Bombardier’s UK-based Centre of Excellence for aluminum carbody design, in Derby, was involved in the development of the technology.
Other innovative developments include the BOMBARDIER EBI Drive 50 Driver Assistance System and Bombardier’s Thermo Efficient Climatization System. These and other energy saving measures mean that ZEFIRO trains boast the lowest energy consumption per seat of any VHS train. All of Bombardier’s expertise and experience gained from building more than 850 high and VHS trains in the past two decades has been invested in the development of this next generation vehicle.
The ZEFIRO platform forms the basis for the most economical and eco-friendly family of high speed and VHS trains. It combines the highest capacity in the industry with pioneering levels of passenger comfort and employs leading-edge technologies and advanced aerodynamics to reduce energy consumption. The technology exists to meet virtually any high speed requirement anywhere in the world.
The ZEFIRO high speed train platform can accommodate speed performance from 250-380 km/h (155-235 mph) and is highly flexible. ZEFIRO trains can significantly reduce travelling times between major cities and boost interregional economic growth.
The iF Product Design Award from Germany recognises design quality, finish, choice of materials, degree of innovation, environmental impact, functionality, safety as well as brand value. It is also the third time in five years that Bombardier has won the Good Design Award for its train design. The award is conferred annually by the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design together with the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.
“These prestigious awards are testament to the ZEFIRO VHS train’s innovative approach to very high speed travel,” said Michael Sohn, Teamleader Industrial Design, ZEFIRO project, Bombardier Transportation. “As one of the world’s fastest series-production trains, its design benefits from Bombardier’s long-term expertise in train specific aerodynamic research. As well as being extremely energy efficient, the train’s shaping of windows, lights, splitlines and graphics creates a distinctive appearance that sets new standards in the railway industry for sustainable transportation and passenger comfort.”
The unique aerodynamic design of the ZEFIRO train family leads to superior cross wind stability, aerodynamic drag and pressure pulses. Bombardier Transportation is the first company in Europe to develop and apply an aluminum carbody for driving cars as well as trailer cars in the high speed segment, resulting in reduced weight and lower track wear as well as full compliance with stringent safety requirements. Bombardier’s UK-based Centre of Excellence for aluminum carbody design, in Derby, was involved in the development of the technology.
Other innovative developments include the BOMBARDIER EBI Drive 50 Driver Assistance System and Bombardier’s Thermo Efficient Climatization System. These and other energy saving measures mean that ZEFIRO trains boast the lowest energy consumption per seat of any VHS train. All of Bombardier’s expertise and experience gained from building more than 850 high and VHS trains in the past two decades has been invested in the development of this next generation vehicle.
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Left: Artist's impression of the ZEFIRO VHS train. |
15-02-12
First Hull Trains Valentine's Day
Cupid’s bow was pointing at every passenger travelling with First Hull Trains this Valentine's Day - 14 February.
Traditionally a time when couples pamper and spoil one another, the team at First Hull Trains handed out a little bit of love to all their passengers travelling on the 10.30 Hull to London London King's Cross, when they were treated to heart-shaped chocolates and a rose as a Valentine’s gift from the team at First Hull Trains.
And, customers travelling on any service throughout the entire day were offered a heart-shaped chocolate as well as being given the chance to enter a prize draw to win a fantastic trip for two to London.
The prize includes two first-class tickets on board a First Hull Trains service, a two night stay in a central London hotel and a pair of tickets to a West End show.
David Townend, sales and marketing manager at First Hull Trains, said: “We are looking forward to celebrating Valentine’s Day this year at First Hull Trains. We hope that our celebrations will help make our passengers’ journeys even more enjoyable.”
Traditionally a time when couples pamper and spoil one another, the team at First Hull Trains handed out a little bit of love to all their passengers travelling on the 10.30 Hull to London London King's Cross, when they were treated to heart-shaped chocolates and a rose as a Valentine’s gift from the team at First Hull Trains.
And, customers travelling on any service throughout the entire day were offered a heart-shaped chocolate as well as being given the chance to enter a prize draw to win a fantastic trip for two to London.
The prize includes two first-class tickets on board a First Hull Trains service, a two night stay in a central London hotel and a pair of tickets to a West End show.
David Townend, sales and marketing manager at First Hull Trains, said: “We are looking forward to celebrating Valentine’s Day this year at First Hull Trains. We hope that our celebrations will help make our passengers’ journeys even more enjoyable.”
14-02-12
Logico powers Stobart Rail special
Logico, a division of Freightliner Ltd, the UK’s largest intermodal rail freight operator, hauled a special service from Freightliner’s Garston Terminal to Freightliner’s South Wales International Terminal in Cardiff on 11 February 2012. The special consignment of multimodal rail containers will be used by Stobart Rail as it continues to expand its low-carbon rail freight services for customers across the UK.
This special service follows previous movements by Freightliner of similar containers from Felixstowe to Widnes after they were imported into the UK at the end of 2011.
Logico was set up in 2004 to provide specialist bespoke services to freight forwarders providing regular rail space on all Freightliner’s services without the need to make a long term commitment. Freightliner operates over 100 daily services to and from Felixstowe, Southampton, Tilbury, Thamesport and Seaforth to 14 destinations, 9 of which are terminals owned and operated by Freightliner.
This special service follows previous movements by Freightliner of similar containers from Felixstowe to Widnes after they were imported into the UK at the end of 2011.
Logico was set up in 2004 to provide specialist bespoke services to freight forwarders providing regular rail space on all Freightliner’s services without the need to make a long term commitment. Freightliner operates over 100 daily services to and from Felixstowe, Southampton, Tilbury, Thamesport and Seaforth to 14 destinations, 9 of which are terminals owned and operated by Freightliner.
14-02-12
Alstom and Cofely Besix FM to provide maintenance for the Dubai Tramway
The Roads and Transport Authority of the Government of Dubai (RTA) has awarded a 13-year maintenance contract for the Al Sufouh tramway in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, to a consortium comprised of Alstom and Cofely Besix Facility Management (FM). The total value of the contract amounts to €120 million, including €68 million for Alstom, the consortium’s leader, and €52 million for Cofely Besix FM. It includes an option for a five-year extension in the amount of €50 million.
The contract is for the maintenance of the rolling stock and fixed installations to be delivered by Alstom and Cofely Besix FM for phase 1 of the Dubai tramway project. This phase 1 includes the supply of 11 Citadis tramsets, 10 km of track, 13 stations and other equipment.
The maintenance contract includes preventive and corrective routine maintenance, equipment renewal, technical support, management of spare-parts inventories for the Citadis tramsets and the implementation of major maintenance programme. It also involves maintaining the passenger stations, maintenance depot, track and platforms, points and crossings, power supply and distribution equipment, ground-level power supply system (APS), communication and signalling systems and other electromechanical installations in perfect condition.
This overall maintenance service, based on performance objectives measured daily in terms of the availability of the transport system and its infrastructures, will ensure optimal operating conditions for the trams, which will run for 20 hours a day, from 5 am to 1 am. Cofely Besix FM will be in charge of maintaining the stations and depot (MEP Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) and will provide associated services in the stations and along the track.
A phase 2 of the Dubai tramway project provides for 14 additional Citadis tramsets, as well as four additional km of track and six stations.
Building on the ongoing work for phase 1 of the project, this maintenance contract highlights the relationship of trust that has developed between RTA and the members of the consortium. With the start of commercial services slated for the end of 2014, Dubai will become the first city in the Gulf region to operate a tramway system. The APS technology selected for use on the Dubai tramway is a catenary-free system which helps to preserve the urban environment and historic heritage of city centres. It has been in service in Bordeaux since 2003 and has also been selected by the cities of Rheims, Angers and Orleans in France. This state-of-the-art technology is perfectly suited to the compelling modernity of Dubai.
The contract is for the maintenance of the rolling stock and fixed installations to be delivered by Alstom and Cofely Besix FM for phase 1 of the Dubai tramway project. This phase 1 includes the supply of 11 Citadis tramsets, 10 km of track, 13 stations and other equipment.
The maintenance contract includes preventive and corrective routine maintenance, equipment renewal, technical support, management of spare-parts inventories for the Citadis tramsets and the implementation of major maintenance programme. It also involves maintaining the passenger stations, maintenance depot, track and platforms, points and crossings, power supply and distribution equipment, ground-level power supply system (APS), communication and signalling systems and other electromechanical installations in perfect condition.
This overall maintenance service, based on performance objectives measured daily in terms of the availability of the transport system and its infrastructures, will ensure optimal operating conditions for the trams, which will run for 20 hours a day, from 5 am to 1 am. Cofely Besix FM will be in charge of maintaining the stations and depot (MEP Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) and will provide associated services in the stations and along the track.
A phase 2 of the Dubai tramway project provides for 14 additional Citadis tramsets, as well as four additional km of track and six stations.
Building on the ongoing work for phase 1 of the project, this maintenance contract highlights the relationship of trust that has developed between RTA and the members of the consortium. With the start of commercial services slated for the end of 2014, Dubai will become the first city in the Gulf region to operate a tramway system. The APS technology selected for use on the Dubai tramway is a catenary-free system which helps to preserve the urban environment and historic heritage of city centres. It has been in service in Bordeaux since 2003 and has also been selected by the cities of Rheims, Angers and Orleans in France. This state-of-the-art technology is perfectly suited to the compelling modernity of Dubai.
14-02-12
DB Schenker Rail preferred operator for new rail freight interchanges
DB Schenker Rail UK has agreed terms with two major property developers for the operation of proposed new intermodal terminals in the south-east of England.
Both terminals are located close to the M25. The interchange at Radlett in Hertfordshire is being promoted by SEGRO, while the interchange at Colnbrook in Berkshire is being promoted by Goodman. The two schemes provide major warehouse capacity, are served by a rail terminal, and they are both in the right locations to serve London and the Home Counties.
Rail industry forecasts predict growth in container traffic on the UK railway of up to 300 percent by 2030. In order to meet this demand DB Schenker Rail believes that significant new terminal capacity is needed, especially close to major consumer markets.
Alain Thauvette, Chief Executive of DB Schenker Rail UK, said: "To deliver rail freight growth in the UK we need new terminals. We are delighted to have reached agreements with SEGRO and Goodman to be their preferred operator for these planned interchanges. Both terminals have the potential to take up to 2,000 long-haul lorry movements off the roads every day, reducing both congestion and carbon emissions. The terminals also form part of DB Schenker Rail UK's strategy to increase and support terminal capacity development throughout the UK, and build on links with established and new major deep-sea ports. In addition, they will form the UK hubs for logistics flows of rail-borne product to and from the whole of Europe through the Channel Tunnel."
Both terminals are located close to the M25. The interchange at Radlett in Hertfordshire is being promoted by SEGRO, while the interchange at Colnbrook in Berkshire is being promoted by Goodman. The two schemes provide major warehouse capacity, are served by a rail terminal, and they are both in the right locations to serve London and the Home Counties.
Rail industry forecasts predict growth in container traffic on the UK railway of up to 300 percent by 2030. In order to meet this demand DB Schenker Rail believes that significant new terminal capacity is needed, especially close to major consumer markets.
Alain Thauvette, Chief Executive of DB Schenker Rail UK, said: "To deliver rail freight growth in the UK we need new terminals. We are delighted to have reached agreements with SEGRO and Goodman to be their preferred operator for these planned interchanges. Both terminals have the potential to take up to 2,000 long-haul lorry movements off the roads every day, reducing both congestion and carbon emissions. The terminals also form part of DB Schenker Rail UK's strategy to increase and support terminal capacity development throughout the UK, and build on links with established and new major deep-sea ports. In addition, they will form the UK hubs for logistics flows of rail-borne product to and from the whole of Europe through the Channel Tunnel."
14-02-12
'Carbon Free' freight trains to be introduced by DB Schenker Rail
DB Schenker Rail UK (DBS) has outlined plans to introduce carbon free rail freight services for customers using trains hauled by electric locomotives, further improving the environmental credibility of rail freight.
Working with Renewable Energy Systems (RES), one of the world's largest renewable energy developers, DB Schenker Rail UK is proposing to build three wind turbines on its land at Margam, near Port Talbot in South Wales, to provide renewable energy to the rail network. RES is currently in discussions with Neath & Port Talbot Council regarding the scheme.
The energy generated by the turbines would be enough to power a 'green fleet' of DB Schenker Rail UK's Class 92 electric locomotives. The electricity would be sold to Network Rail for use in the overhead power cables and in doing so, DB Schenker Rail UK will be able to offer customers 'carbon free' rail freight services in the UK by the end of the year.
Alain Thauvette, Chief Executive of DB Schenker Rail UK, said: "Deutsche Bahn wishes to reduce its carbon emissions by 20% by 2020. This proposal is a significant step forward in delivering this carbon reduction target in the UK, while enabling DB Schenker Rail to provide its customers with Eco Solutions to reduce their carbon emissions. We hope that the local authority and the Welsh Assembly Government will support the development, which would see carbon free freight trains operating to Wales when routes are electrified."
Carbon free freight trains would operate from London to Scotland on the West and East Coast Main Lines and to Wales on the Great Western Railway once that route is electrified. RES and DB Schenker Rail will submit their proposals for planning approval during the spring.
Working with Renewable Energy Systems (RES), one of the world's largest renewable energy developers, DB Schenker Rail UK is proposing to build three wind turbines on its land at Margam, near Port Talbot in South Wales, to provide renewable energy to the rail network. RES is currently in discussions with Neath & Port Talbot Council regarding the scheme.
The energy generated by the turbines would be enough to power a 'green fleet' of DB Schenker Rail UK's Class 92 electric locomotives. The electricity would be sold to Network Rail for use in the overhead power cables and in doing so, DB Schenker Rail UK will be able to offer customers 'carbon free' rail freight services in the UK by the end of the year.
Alain Thauvette, Chief Executive of DB Schenker Rail UK, said: "Deutsche Bahn wishes to reduce its carbon emissions by 20% by 2020. This proposal is a significant step forward in delivering this carbon reduction target in the UK, while enabling DB Schenker Rail to provide its customers with Eco Solutions to reduce their carbon emissions. We hope that the local authority and the Welsh Assembly Government will support the development, which would see carbon free freight trains operating to Wales when routes are electrified."
Carbon free freight trains would operate from London to Scotland on the West and East Coast Main Lines and to Wales on the Great Western Railway once that route is electrified. RES and DB Schenker Rail will submit their proposals for planning approval during the spring.
13-02-12
Railtour listings are now on The Railway Centre website
Following requests from hundreds of readers/viewers, The Railway Centre has now put together a complete and totally free railtour listing service. The site is in date order and lists all known UK-based railtours, it provides the tour name, route, traction and operator details. A link is provided at the bottom of the section with web and email addresses for tour operators.
The TRC would like to receive information on any missing railtours from the list, and tour operators are invited to supply future tour information for us to include free of charge on the ever growing site.
In the future TRC will be including a gallery of railtour images, linked direct to the tour database, so please submit your tour pictures, these should by 1600pix wide. To visit the new section click here
The TRC would like to receive information on any missing railtours from the list, and tour operators are invited to supply future tour information for us to include free of charge on the ever growing site.
In the future TRC will be including a gallery of railtour images, linked direct to the tour database, so please submit your tour pictures, these should by 1600pix wide. To visit the new section click here
10-02-12
Inchyra Crossing closure marks first for Network Rail
Network Rail today officially marked the closure of Inchyra level crossing in Perthshire – the first Scottish public crossing to close this century.
The automatic half-barrier crossing has been removed from the network after Perth and Kinross Council and Network Rail worked together to create a new link road to divert traffic away from the railway.
The new link road, between Inchyra and St Madoes in the Carse of Gowrie, was officially opened on 10 February 2012 by John Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North and the Scottish Government’s cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth.
The closure is part of a wider Network Rail initiative to reduce the number of level crossings on Scottish roads. The company, which cannot close public crossings without local authority support, is currently in negotiations with other councils over the future of several public crossings.
David Simpson, Network Rail route managing director for Scotland, said: “Level crossing misuse represents the biggest outside risk to rail safety. We are committed to closing crossings where possible and we also avoid building new crossings into our lines. The closure of Inchyra shows what can be done to remove crossings from the network and is a great example of a local authority and Network Rail working together to improve public safety. We are in discussions with other councils regarding more level crossings and hope that today’s closure is just the first of many in Scotland.”
Perth and Kinross enterprise and infrastructure convener, councillor John Kellas commented: "We are pleased to have worked with Network Rail to make a dual improvement to transport safety in the Carse through this project. The new link road provides better access for residents and visitors to Inchyra, in combination with the closure of the level crossing, removing a hazard point for motorists and train travellers alike."
The automatic half-barrier crossing has been removed from the network after Perth and Kinross Council and Network Rail worked together to create a new link road to divert traffic away from the railway.
The new link road, between Inchyra and St Madoes in the Carse of Gowrie, was officially opened on 10 February 2012 by John Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North and the Scottish Government’s cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth.
The closure is part of a wider Network Rail initiative to reduce the number of level crossings on Scottish roads. The company, which cannot close public crossings without local authority support, is currently in negotiations with other councils over the future of several public crossings.
David Simpson, Network Rail route managing director for Scotland, said: “Level crossing misuse represents the biggest outside risk to rail safety. We are committed to closing crossings where possible and we also avoid building new crossings into our lines. The closure of Inchyra shows what can be done to remove crossings from the network and is a great example of a local authority and Network Rail working together to improve public safety. We are in discussions with other councils regarding more level crossings and hope that today’s closure is just the first of many in Scotland.”
Perth and Kinross enterprise and infrastructure convener, councillor John Kellas commented: "We are pleased to have worked with Network Rail to make a dual improvement to transport safety in the Carse through this project. The new link road provides better access for residents and visitors to Inchyra, in combination with the closure of the level crossing, removing a hazard point for motorists and train travellers alike."
10-02-12
Extra DBS service between Poland and the UK
DB Schenker has said it is planning to introduce a second weekly freight service between Poland and the UK in September 2012. It is suggested that up to five trains per week could be running between the two countries by late 2013.
The additional train will operate from Wroclaw in Poland to Barking in the UK, it will remove 3,700 lorry movements and over 135,000 lorry kms per year from Europe's road network.
Alexander Hedderich, Chief Executive of DB Schenker said: "DB Schenker Rail is a pan-European rail freight operator and the strengthening of our services between Poland and the UK clearly illustrates the success our strategy for European rail freight growth is having. Through effective trading corridors such as this one we are able to provide customers with the economic and environmental solutions that enable their use of rail freight to increase."
The additional train will operate from Wroclaw in Poland to Barking in the UK, it will remove 3,700 lorry movements and over 135,000 lorry kms per year from Europe's road network.
Alexander Hedderich, Chief Executive of DB Schenker said: "DB Schenker Rail is a pan-European rail freight operator and the strengthening of our services between Poland and the UK clearly illustrates the success our strategy for European rail freight growth is having. Through effective trading corridors such as this one we are able to provide customers with the economic and environmental solutions that enable their use of rail freight to increase."
10-02-12
Awards for eco-friendly ScotRail train drivers
Hollywood’s brightest may be gaining plaudits for their on-screen performances in the run up to the Oscars – but two ScotRail train drivers have been awarded for their ongoing ‘green’ performance.
Steven Cumming, from Stirling, and Gary Wilson, of Bonnybridge, have been recognised for their outstanding eco-driving techniques.
Steven, 31, who is based in Perth, said: “I’m delighted with my award. Everyone wants to do their bit for the environment and it’s great that we are trained to do so at work.” And Gary, who is based at Airdrie, added: “I’m really pleased to have won, especially since I’ve only been driving for a year. This goes to show how useful the techniques we learn in training are when you’re out on the job.”
ScotRail has taught eco-driving skills to all its train drivers since 2007 as a way of reducing the train operator’s carbon footprint and combating the rising cost of diesel. Their training includes tips on coasting, acceleration and deceleration and reducing idling at stations.
Drivers hone their techniques at ScotRail’s Simulator Centre underneath Glasgow Central station.
The centre houses two exact replicas of train cabs which are so realistic that drivers usually forget they are training in a virtual reality world. They offer scenarios ranging from the middle of a Scottish winter to a train rounding a bend where a potential problem could lie ahead.
Phil Dickson, ScotRail’s traction energy manager, created the Eco-Driving Awards in 2009 – sponsored by SYDAC, the simulator manufacturer.
He said: “The awards encourage drivers to focus on using green driving techniques in the real world – and the virtual one.”
Steven Cumming, from Stirling, and Gary Wilson, of Bonnybridge, have been recognised for their outstanding eco-driving techniques.
Steven, 31, who is based in Perth, said: “I’m delighted with my award. Everyone wants to do their bit for the environment and it’s great that we are trained to do so at work.” And Gary, who is based at Airdrie, added: “I’m really pleased to have won, especially since I’ve only been driving for a year. This goes to show how useful the techniques we learn in training are when you’re out on the job.”
ScotRail has taught eco-driving skills to all its train drivers since 2007 as a way of reducing the train operator’s carbon footprint and combating the rising cost of diesel. Their training includes tips on coasting, acceleration and deceleration and reducing idling at stations.
Drivers hone their techniques at ScotRail’s Simulator Centre underneath Glasgow Central station.
The centre houses two exact replicas of train cabs which are so realistic that drivers usually forget they are training in a virtual reality world. They offer scenarios ranging from the middle of a Scottish winter to a train rounding a bend where a potential problem could lie ahead.
Phil Dickson, ScotRail’s traction energy manager, created the Eco-Driving Awards in 2009 – sponsored by SYDAC, the simulator manufacturer.
He said: “The awards encourage drivers to focus on using green driving techniques in the real world – and the virtual one.”
10-02-12
Central area of Croydon Tramlink shut for a week 11-16 February 2012
Central Croydon services suspended from 11 to 16 February 2012.
London Tramlink passengers will have a more comfortable journey on a more reliable service following upgrade works on the network between 11-16 February.
Two hundred metres of track are being replaced as part of Tramlink's Investment Programme and the upgrade will give a much smoother ride than before.
Interim Director of London Tramlink, Sharon Thompson said: 'This is necessary maintenance and upgrade work which needs to be done as it means a more reliable service for passengers as well as less wear and tear on our trams. We will keep inconvenience to passengers and businesses along the route to a minimum and complete the works as quickly as possible.'
The main work site where the upgrade will take place is at Crown Hill and as a result London Tramlink services on the central Croydon loop will be suspended from 11 to 16 February with normal service resuming on 17 February.
George Street West will also be closed to vehicles during the same dates reopening on 17 February.
Two other worksites - at the junction of Wellesley Road and George Street and near West Croydon bus station - will not affect access to local businesses or residences.
London Tramlink passengers will have a more comfortable journey on a more reliable service following upgrade works on the network between 11-16 February.
Two hundred metres of track are being replaced as part of Tramlink's Investment Programme and the upgrade will give a much smoother ride than before.
Interim Director of London Tramlink, Sharon Thompson said: 'This is necessary maintenance and upgrade work which needs to be done as it means a more reliable service for passengers as well as less wear and tear on our trams. We will keep inconvenience to passengers and businesses along the route to a minimum and complete the works as quickly as possible.'
The main work site where the upgrade will take place is at Crown Hill and as a result London Tramlink services on the central Croydon loop will be suspended from 11 to 16 February with normal service resuming on 17 February.
George Street West will also be closed to vehicles during the same dates reopening on 17 February.
Two other worksites - at the junction of Wellesley Road and George Street and near West Croydon bus station - will not affect access to local businesses or residences.
09-02-12
Proposed new station at Energlyn
A proposal to build a brand new station at Energlyn was unveiled for the first time on 9 February 2012 at an exhibition, where the public is encouraged to give feedback and lend their support for this plan.
The new station, which will be located between Aber and Llanbradach, aims to serve the growing community at Energlyn. Once completed, the scheme will benefit passengers at Energlyn from direct rail services to and from Cardiff for the very first the time, potentially within two years.
Developed jointly by the Welsh Government, Network Rail, Caerphilly County Borough Council, SEWTA and Arriva Trains Wales, the plan will significantly help ease road congestion and cater for rising rail usage in the area. The plan proposes that the new station consists of two platforms with step-free access .
Mark Langman, route managing director for Network Rail Wales said: “This proposal is driven by a vision to transform the railway in Wales and, once delivered, will bring a huge benefit for Energlyn. Support from the people of the town is vital to make this possible, so we urge the public to share their views and comments with us today. Energlyn has seen a steady increase in passenger demand over the years and the proposed new station will cater for this growth and encourage sustainable travel, whilst improving the environment and socio-economics of the area.”
Minister for Transport, Carl Sargeant said: "The Welsh Government is committed to supporting a modern and efficient rail system in Wales. We plan to make rail more accessible, so that more of our communities have the choice of accessing a high-quality yet affordable rail system."
An Arriva Trains Wales spokesperson said: ‘We welcome the news of potential investment in the Energlyn area. We believe that this may have a really positive impact in serving this growing community. We encourage any of those who may benefit to come along and have a look at the proposals. Public engagement such as this will undoubtedly help Network Rail and their partners ensure this is a really successful potential project.”
The proposed new station will be equipped with disabled parking spaces, drop-off point, CCTV, waiting shelters, ticket machines, bicycle storage area, emergency help points and digital boards providing real-time train information.
A grant is currently being sought from the Welsh European Funding Office and the feedback and support received from the public will be vital to help support this application process.
The new station, which will be located between Aber and Llanbradach, aims to serve the growing community at Energlyn. Once completed, the scheme will benefit passengers at Energlyn from direct rail services to and from Cardiff for the very first the time, potentially within two years.
Developed jointly by the Welsh Government, Network Rail, Caerphilly County Borough Council, SEWTA and Arriva Trains Wales, the plan will significantly help ease road congestion and cater for rising rail usage in the area. The plan proposes that the new station consists of two platforms with step-free access .
Mark Langman, route managing director for Network Rail Wales said: “This proposal is driven by a vision to transform the railway in Wales and, once delivered, will bring a huge benefit for Energlyn. Support from the people of the town is vital to make this possible, so we urge the public to share their views and comments with us today. Energlyn has seen a steady increase in passenger demand over the years and the proposed new station will cater for this growth and encourage sustainable travel, whilst improving the environment and socio-economics of the area.”
Minister for Transport, Carl Sargeant said: "The Welsh Government is committed to supporting a modern and efficient rail system in Wales. We plan to make rail more accessible, so that more of our communities have the choice of accessing a high-quality yet affordable rail system."
An Arriva Trains Wales spokesperson said: ‘We welcome the news of potential investment in the Energlyn area. We believe that this may have a really positive impact in serving this growing community. We encourage any of those who may benefit to come along and have a look at the proposals. Public engagement such as this will undoubtedly help Network Rail and their partners ensure this is a really successful potential project.”
The proposed new station will be equipped with disabled parking spaces, drop-off point, CCTV, waiting shelters, ticket machines, bicycle storage area, emergency help points and digital boards providing real-time train information.
A grant is currently being sought from the Welsh European Funding Office and the feedback and support received from the public will be vital to help support this application process.
Left: How the new double track station might look.
09-02-12
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09-02-12
Royal visit to Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy
His Royal Highness, The Duke of York, yesterday visited the new £13m Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy (TUCA) in east London as part of National Apprenticeship Week to meet apprentices working on the Crossrail project.
The Duke heard first-hand from a number of apprentices, including several who were previously unemployed, about the benefits of apprenticeships and their aspirations for the future.
Over 70 Apprentices are now employed on Europe’s largest infrastructure project. Apprenticeships are offered through the supply chain as contracts are awarded with numbers expected to rise further with the start of major tunnelling activity next month.
Apprenticeships are offered in a variety of subject areas, providing vocational training in construction, craft and office-based roles with priority given to candidates from London boroughs.
Crossrail Chairman Terry Morgan said: “Crossrail is committed to delivering at least 400 apprenticeships over the lifetime of the project. I’m delighted that HRH The Duke of York had an opportunity to learn first hand about the importance of apprenticeships and also meet directly with young people to hear their experiences. In these tough economic times, apprenticeships deliver a structured vocational learning and development route for young people while also providing employers with the ability to harness new and emerging talent.”
Located at Ilford in east London, TUCA aims to address the shortage of people with the necessary skills to work on Crossrail and other tunnelling projects in London and the UK. TUCA will offer training to at least 3,500 people over the lifetime of the project.
The Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy opened its doors in September 2011 and its facilities include a tunnel mock-up and a Spray Concrete Lining workshop. This allows students to gain experience in the practical skills required for underground construction. TUCA students are made up of new entrants to the industry as well as Crossrail’s contractors’ existing workforces.
Thousands of people will be employed in building Crossrail at the height of construction in 2013-15. Further jobs will be supported through the supply chain in London and in regionally-based manufacturers and suppliers.
TUCA will not only ensure that Crossrail has the skills needed for its construction but will be retained post-Crossrail as a specialist training centre for other tunnelling projects.
An unprecedented level of tunnelling and underground work is due to take place in the UK over the next decade including the construction of major new water and electricity tunnels under London. The Academy will not only provide specialist skills training for Crossrail but also the wider UK and global construction industry. The Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy will also collaborate internationally on improvements to underground construction safety.
Crossrail is also working with Jobcentre Plus (JCP) to provide local people with opportunities to work on the Crossrail project. Jobcentre Plus works with a network of local job brokerage and outreach agencies to match vacancies to suitable candidates and arrange interviews for short-listed applicants.
Contractors are obliged to send all employment opportunities to the local job brokerage and outreach agencies 48 hours before they advertise them elsewhere. This gives the team an early opportunity to put forward job-ready candidates from the local area.
Through JobCentre Plus, Crossrail also offers pre-employment training to unemployed Londoners with a view to them moving into work or an apprenticeship with a Crossrail contractor. Over 200 people have so far received pre-employment training.
When it opens in 2018, Crossrail will boost London’s rail capacity by ten per cent, deliver new journey opportunities, faster journey times and up to 24 trains per hour between Paddington and Whitechapel during the peak.
The Duke heard first-hand from a number of apprentices, including several who were previously unemployed, about the benefits of apprenticeships and their aspirations for the future.
Over 70 Apprentices are now employed on Europe’s largest infrastructure project. Apprenticeships are offered through the supply chain as contracts are awarded with numbers expected to rise further with the start of major tunnelling activity next month.
Apprenticeships are offered in a variety of subject areas, providing vocational training in construction, craft and office-based roles with priority given to candidates from London boroughs.
Crossrail Chairman Terry Morgan said: “Crossrail is committed to delivering at least 400 apprenticeships over the lifetime of the project. I’m delighted that HRH The Duke of York had an opportunity to learn first hand about the importance of apprenticeships and also meet directly with young people to hear their experiences. In these tough economic times, apprenticeships deliver a structured vocational learning and development route for young people while also providing employers with the ability to harness new and emerging talent.”
Located at Ilford in east London, TUCA aims to address the shortage of people with the necessary skills to work on Crossrail and other tunnelling projects in London and the UK. TUCA will offer training to at least 3,500 people over the lifetime of the project.
The Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy opened its doors in September 2011 and its facilities include a tunnel mock-up and a Spray Concrete Lining workshop. This allows students to gain experience in the practical skills required for underground construction. TUCA students are made up of new entrants to the industry as well as Crossrail’s contractors’ existing workforces.
Thousands of people will be employed in building Crossrail at the height of construction in 2013-15. Further jobs will be supported through the supply chain in London and in regionally-based manufacturers and suppliers.
TUCA will not only ensure that Crossrail has the skills needed for its construction but will be retained post-Crossrail as a specialist training centre for other tunnelling projects.
An unprecedented level of tunnelling and underground work is due to take place in the UK over the next decade including the construction of major new water and electricity tunnels under London. The Academy will not only provide specialist skills training for Crossrail but also the wider UK and global construction industry. The Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy will also collaborate internationally on improvements to underground construction safety.
Crossrail is also working with Jobcentre Plus (JCP) to provide local people with opportunities to work on the Crossrail project. Jobcentre Plus works with a network of local job brokerage and outreach agencies to match vacancies to suitable candidates and arrange interviews for short-listed applicants.
Contractors are obliged to send all employment opportunities to the local job brokerage and outreach agencies 48 hours before they advertise them elsewhere. This gives the team an early opportunity to put forward job-ready candidates from the local area.
Through JobCentre Plus, Crossrail also offers pre-employment training to unemployed Londoners with a view to them moving into work or an apprenticeship with a Crossrail contractor. Over 200 people have so far received pre-employment training.
When it opens in 2018, Crossrail will boost London’s rail capacity by ten per cent, deliver new journey opportunities, faster journey times and up to 24 trains per hour between Paddington and Whitechapel during the peak.
08-02-12
Southern open Cycle Hub at Haywards Heath
Haywards Heath Mayor, Councillor John Sabin joined Southern’s Managing Director and guests on 8 February 2012 to formally open Southern’s first ever indoor cycle hub at Haywards Heath station.
The £300,000 project has transformed bicycle and motorcycle parking at Haywards Heath railway station with 300 new cycle spaces and 100 new motorcycle spaces in the station car park, 160 of which have been installed in a former car valet building.
The refurbishment and fit-out of the old car valeting building has two-tier parking for 160 bicycles, secure lockers, a changing room and toilets. For an annual subscription, cyclists will get all these facilities plus a key-card which will allow them exclusive entry. The new facility is also covered by CCTV which is beamed back to our 24-hour CCTV Control centre at Croydon. In addition, cyclists can use a Help Point for information and assistance and can also view train departures from a flat-screen monitor.
Outside, there is free parking for 140 cyclists and up to 100 motorcyclists.
Southern’s Managing Director, Chris Burchell said: “I’m delighted that we now have a fantastic facility at Haywards Heath for the growing numbers of cyclists and motorcyclists who are choosing to leave the car at home and get to the station in a much more sustainable way. The new hub also marks the 1500th additional bicycle parking space since the start of our franchise - a commitment we’ve completed on budget and almost two years early. ”
Cycle-Works Ltd was also a partner in the project, providing the Josta 2-tier racks, and the new higher 2.6m high Kennet 2-tier racks.
The Cycle hub is just part of the raft of improvements that have already been made at the station including new waiting rooms and toilets. Work has also started work to double-deck part of the car park which will increase capacity by 120 spaces at this very busy station. The work is due to be completed by the end of the year. Also planned for the station:
• Redesigned and improved booking hall
• Improved main subway including lining and better lighting
• Replacing of all stair treads, risers and nosings
• Improved signage
• An update of the Customer Information Systems
• Painting where needed
• Installation of a clear glass windbreak to the platforms
The £300,000 project has transformed bicycle and motorcycle parking at Haywards Heath railway station with 300 new cycle spaces and 100 new motorcycle spaces in the station car park, 160 of which have been installed in a former car valet building.
The refurbishment and fit-out of the old car valeting building has two-tier parking for 160 bicycles, secure lockers, a changing room and toilets. For an annual subscription, cyclists will get all these facilities plus a key-card which will allow them exclusive entry. The new facility is also covered by CCTV which is beamed back to our 24-hour CCTV Control centre at Croydon. In addition, cyclists can use a Help Point for information and assistance and can also view train departures from a flat-screen monitor.
Outside, there is free parking for 140 cyclists and up to 100 motorcyclists.
Southern’s Managing Director, Chris Burchell said: “I’m delighted that we now have a fantastic facility at Haywards Heath for the growing numbers of cyclists and motorcyclists who are choosing to leave the car at home and get to the station in a much more sustainable way. The new hub also marks the 1500th additional bicycle parking space since the start of our franchise - a commitment we’ve completed on budget and almost two years early. ”
Cycle-Works Ltd was also a partner in the project, providing the Josta 2-tier racks, and the new higher 2.6m high Kennet 2-tier racks.
The Cycle hub is just part of the raft of improvements that have already been made at the station including new waiting rooms and toilets. Work has also started work to double-deck part of the car park which will increase capacity by 120 spaces at this very busy station. The work is due to be completed by the end of the year. Also planned for the station:
• Redesigned and improved booking hall
• Improved main subway including lining and better lighting
• Replacing of all stair treads, risers and nosings
• Improved signage
• An update of the Customer Information Systems
• Painting where needed
• Installation of a clear glass windbreak to the platforms
08-02-12
Crossrail tunnel segment plant opens at Old Oak Common
A new tunnel segment manufacturing facility has begun full operations in west London, pouring the first batch of 250,000 concrete segments that will line 42km (26 miles) of Crossrail tunnels.
Located at Old Oak Common, the facility will employ about 60 people at its peak, including the first of 15 trainees and apprentices, some of whom have been unemployed for up to 12 months.
They are among the first group of apprentices and trainees to receive training at the new Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy (TUCA) – a facility that will not only train up to 3,500 people to work on Crossrail, but will also continue to operate well beyond the Crossrail project and help the UK become a world leader in tunnelling construction.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, the Prime Minister David Cameron and Skills Ministers John Hayes visited TUCA on 7 February 2012 and met several apprentices.
The segment production has begun ahead of the start of Crossrail tunnelling next month, with the first tunnel boring machine (TBM) currently being assembled at Westbourne Park. The concrete segments will be loaded onto the 1,000 tonne mobile underground factory. As the 140 metre long machine advance forward the precast concrete segments will be formed into rings to line the tunnels behind the TBM cutter head.
Joint venture contractors, BAM Ferrovial Kier (BFK), will manufacture more than 75,000 tunnel segments at the Old Oak Common site to be used in the 6.4 kilometre (4 mile) twin tunnels running between Royal Oak in west London and Farringdon. Construction of the segment factory for the eastern running tunnels between Farringdon and Docklands is currently underway at Chatham in Kent and scheduled for completion in late April.
Crossrail’s Western Tunnels Project Manager Andy Alder said: “Preparations are well underway for the start of Crossrail tunnelling next month. Ahead of that, we are stockpiling tunnel segments and have begun pouring the first batches of more than 250,000 concrete segments that will be made to line 42 kilometres of Crossrail tunnels. The new factory at Old Oak Common is a good example of Crossrail delivering new employment opportunities for unemployed people. These trainees and apprentices will gain new skills that provide the opportunity for a long-term career in the construction industry.”
At least 400 apprenticeships will be created over the life of the Crossrail project. More than 70 apprentices have already started work.
The trainees and apprentices at the concrete segment factory have received pre-apprenticeship training at TUCA in abrasive wheels, manual handling, site logistics and pre-cast concrete manufacturing, and passed their CSCS Health and Safety tests.
The factory will produce more than 200 segments per day at its peak and include a laboratory to test the quality of the concrete to ensure that the segments have a 120 year life. The factory has been built specifically for the production of Crossrail’s tunnel segments with the site to become home to a major Crossrail train depot once segment production is completed.
Located at Old Oak Common, the facility will employ about 60 people at its peak, including the first of 15 trainees and apprentices, some of whom have been unemployed for up to 12 months.
They are among the first group of apprentices and trainees to receive training at the new Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy (TUCA) – a facility that will not only train up to 3,500 people to work on Crossrail, but will also continue to operate well beyond the Crossrail project and help the UK become a world leader in tunnelling construction.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, the Prime Minister David Cameron and Skills Ministers John Hayes visited TUCA on 7 February 2012 and met several apprentices.
The segment production has begun ahead of the start of Crossrail tunnelling next month, with the first tunnel boring machine (TBM) currently being assembled at Westbourne Park. The concrete segments will be loaded onto the 1,000 tonne mobile underground factory. As the 140 metre long machine advance forward the precast concrete segments will be formed into rings to line the tunnels behind the TBM cutter head.
Joint venture contractors, BAM Ferrovial Kier (BFK), will manufacture more than 75,000 tunnel segments at the Old Oak Common site to be used in the 6.4 kilometre (4 mile) twin tunnels running between Royal Oak in west London and Farringdon. Construction of the segment factory for the eastern running tunnels between Farringdon and Docklands is currently underway at Chatham in Kent and scheduled for completion in late April.
Crossrail’s Western Tunnels Project Manager Andy Alder said: “Preparations are well underway for the start of Crossrail tunnelling next month. Ahead of that, we are stockpiling tunnel segments and have begun pouring the first batches of more than 250,000 concrete segments that will be made to line 42 kilometres of Crossrail tunnels. The new factory at Old Oak Common is a good example of Crossrail delivering new employment opportunities for unemployed people. These trainees and apprentices will gain new skills that provide the opportunity for a long-term career in the construction industry.”
At least 400 apprenticeships will be created over the life of the Crossrail project. More than 70 apprentices have already started work.
The trainees and apprentices at the concrete segment factory have received pre-apprenticeship training at TUCA in abrasive wheels, manual handling, site logistics and pre-cast concrete manufacturing, and passed their CSCS Health and Safety tests.
The factory will produce more than 200 segments per day at its peak and include a laboratory to test the quality of the concrete to ensure that the segments have a 120 year life. The factory has been built specifically for the production of Crossrail’s tunnel segments with the site to become home to a major Crossrail train depot once segment production is completed.
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Above: Two views inside the new segment assembly plant at Old Oak Common.
08-02-12
Crossrail TBM naming competition shortlist published
Crossrail has said it has received a huge response to its competition to name six of the tunnel boring machines (TBMs) that will construct the major new rail tunnels under London.
The competition has attracted nearly 2,500 entries from across London and the UK with a huge selection of imaginative ideas for the three pairs of machines.
A shortlist of names has now been selected by a Crossrail panel. This features ideas inspired by British heritage, literature, London life, transport, engineering as well as famous Britons.
The ten pairs of names are: (TBM Name A + B)
Nancy + Nell Characters from Charles Dickens novels - Oliver Twist and Little Nell from The Old Curiosity Shop.
Matilda + Millie Matilda the wife of William the Conqueror. Millie from old English name Millicent which means 'Strength'.
Victoria + Elizabeth Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II.
Bobbie + Phyllis Characters from The Railway Children, Roberta (Bobbie) and Phyllis.
Ada + Phyllis Ada Lovelace was one of the earliest computer scientists. She worked with Charles Babbage on his
"analytical engine", and is regarded as having written the first computer program. Phyllis Pearsall
single-handedly created the London A-Z. She walked 23,000 streets and a total of 3,000 miles to
compile the map.
Pat + Peggy Characters from EastEnders – Peggy Mitchell and Pat Butcher.
Gracie + Vera Named after Gracie Fields and Vera Lynn - who epitomized the British 'Blitz Spirit'.
Mary + Sophia Mary was the wife of the famous railway engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Sophia was the wife of
Marc Isambard Brunel who built the first tunnel under the Thames.
Dorothy + Audrey Medal winning British sprinters Dorothy Manley and Audrey Williamson who competed in the 1948
London Olympics.
Betsy + Dora Characters from the Charles Dickens novel David Copperfield - Betsy Trotwood and Dora.
Public voting on the shortlist is now open, and will close on 29 February 2012. To vote, visit www.crossrail.co.uk/tunnel-comp
Andy Mitchell, Crossrail Programme Director said: “We received a fantastic response to our competition to name six of the tunnel boring machines that will tunnel under London. Nearly 2,500 entries were submitted with people drawing inspiration from from Charles Dickens and Brunel through to EastEnders. A shortlist of names for the first six Crossrail tunnel boring machines is now open to the public vote via the Crossrail website.”
The winning names will be painted onto the tunnel boring machines prior to their launch. Prizes will be awarded to the three entrants who receive the most votes as well as three lucky voters.
This spring, the first two 140 metre long TBMs weighing 1,000 tonnes will travel 6.4 km (4 miles) east from Royal Oak via Paddington, Bond Street and Tottenham Court Road before reaching Farringdon in summer 2013.
Later this year, the second pair of machines will launch from Limmo in Docklands driving 8.3 km (5.2 miles) west towards Farringdon via Whitechapel and Liverpool Street. In the winter, two TBMs will be launched from Plumstead travelling 2.6 km (1.6 miles) and under the River Thames to North Woolwich.
The winning entrants and three voters will have the option of a prize of either Eurostar vouchers or an annual family pass to Merlin Theme Parks, which have been donated by Crossrail’s tunneling and delivery contractors. Those who have named the machines will also be invited to attend the tunneling launch event at Royal Oak.
The competition has attracted nearly 2,500 entries from across London and the UK with a huge selection of imaginative ideas for the three pairs of machines.
A shortlist of names has now been selected by a Crossrail panel. This features ideas inspired by British heritage, literature, London life, transport, engineering as well as famous Britons.
The ten pairs of names are: (TBM Name A + B)
Nancy + Nell Characters from Charles Dickens novels - Oliver Twist and Little Nell from The Old Curiosity Shop.
Matilda + Millie Matilda the wife of William the Conqueror. Millie from old English name Millicent which means 'Strength'.
Victoria + Elizabeth Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II.
Bobbie + Phyllis Characters from The Railway Children, Roberta (Bobbie) and Phyllis.
Ada + Phyllis Ada Lovelace was one of the earliest computer scientists. She worked with Charles Babbage on his
"analytical engine", and is regarded as having written the first computer program. Phyllis Pearsall
single-handedly created the London A-Z. She walked 23,000 streets and a total of 3,000 miles to
compile the map.
Pat + Peggy Characters from EastEnders – Peggy Mitchell and Pat Butcher.
Gracie + Vera Named after Gracie Fields and Vera Lynn - who epitomized the British 'Blitz Spirit'.
Mary + Sophia Mary was the wife of the famous railway engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Sophia was the wife of
Marc Isambard Brunel who built the first tunnel under the Thames.
Dorothy + Audrey Medal winning British sprinters Dorothy Manley and Audrey Williamson who competed in the 1948
London Olympics.
Betsy + Dora Characters from the Charles Dickens novel David Copperfield - Betsy Trotwood and Dora.
Public voting on the shortlist is now open, and will close on 29 February 2012. To vote, visit www.crossrail.co.uk/tunnel-comp
Andy Mitchell, Crossrail Programme Director said: “We received a fantastic response to our competition to name six of the tunnel boring machines that will tunnel under London. Nearly 2,500 entries were submitted with people drawing inspiration from from Charles Dickens and Brunel through to EastEnders. A shortlist of names for the first six Crossrail tunnel boring machines is now open to the public vote via the Crossrail website.”
The winning names will be painted onto the tunnel boring machines prior to their launch. Prizes will be awarded to the three entrants who receive the most votes as well as three lucky voters.
This spring, the first two 140 metre long TBMs weighing 1,000 tonnes will travel 6.4 km (4 miles) east from Royal Oak via Paddington, Bond Street and Tottenham Court Road before reaching Farringdon in summer 2013.
Later this year, the second pair of machines will launch from Limmo in Docklands driving 8.3 km (5.2 miles) west towards Farringdon via Whitechapel and Liverpool Street. In the winter, two TBMs will be launched from Plumstead travelling 2.6 km (1.6 miles) and under the River Thames to North Woolwich.
The winning entrants and three voters will have the option of a prize of either Eurostar vouchers or an annual family pass to Merlin Theme Parks, which have been donated by Crossrail’s tunneling and delivery contractors. Those who have named the machines will also be invited to attend the tunneling launch event at Royal Oak.
07-02-12
Bedford driver honoured with naming
Drivers past and present of First Capital Connect gathered to name Class 319 No. 319441 in honour of one of their number at a ceremony in Bedford station on Monday 6 February 2012.
The widow of retired Bedford driver instructor driver Mick Winnett unveiled the name plate 'Driver Mick Winnett' on the train berthed in platform 1A. The plate is a standard First Capital Connect 'stick-on' plate with a pink ground.
Mick started his railway career in 1958 in the days of steam at Kettering as an engine cleaner before being passed out for firing duties. He fired on many of the turns allocated to Kettering including lodging at Toton with ironstone trains.
When Kettering depot closed in 1969 he moved to Bedford where he was made a driver and in 1978 he became an instructor on all types of diesels that operated at that time.
He continued as an instructor until he retired in October 2007. Whenever a trainee was having difficulty it was always, “What’s Mick Winnett doing next week?” This resulted in many having the benefit of his immense knowledge of both rule book and traction.
He died in August 2011 after a battle with cancer.
FCC Operations Director Jackie Townsend attended Monday’s ceremony and said: “This was a very important occasion for First Capital Connect and colleagues and we were delighted to be able to name one of our trains after Mick. Mick was one of our most respected driver instructors who taught scores of trainees to a high standard. Without the likes of Mick and others who have followed in his footsteps, we would not be able to transport the 150,000 people we do every day."
Bill Davies, a retired Bedford driver was a close friend. He said: “It was always a joy to have Mick as your instructor as he made learning a pleasure. Mick had a marvellous smile and dedicated his working life to the railway. When he died it was a spontaneous reaction of all the drivers at Bedford that we make this permanent reminder of him. Now, when someone says ‘Where’s Mick?’ we can say, ‘He’s probably on his way to Brighton or on his way round the Wimbledon Loop!
The widow of retired Bedford driver instructor driver Mick Winnett unveiled the name plate 'Driver Mick Winnett' on the train berthed in platform 1A. The plate is a standard First Capital Connect 'stick-on' plate with a pink ground.
Mick started his railway career in 1958 in the days of steam at Kettering as an engine cleaner before being passed out for firing duties. He fired on many of the turns allocated to Kettering including lodging at Toton with ironstone trains.
When Kettering depot closed in 1969 he moved to Bedford where he was made a driver and in 1978 he became an instructor on all types of diesels that operated at that time.
He continued as an instructor until he retired in October 2007. Whenever a trainee was having difficulty it was always, “What’s Mick Winnett doing next week?” This resulted in many having the benefit of his immense knowledge of both rule book and traction.
He died in August 2011 after a battle with cancer.
FCC Operations Director Jackie Townsend attended Monday’s ceremony and said: “This was a very important occasion for First Capital Connect and colleagues and we were delighted to be able to name one of our trains after Mick. Mick was one of our most respected driver instructors who taught scores of trainees to a high standard. Without the likes of Mick and others who have followed in his footsteps, we would not be able to transport the 150,000 people we do every day."
Bill Davies, a retired Bedford driver was a close friend. He said: “It was always a joy to have Mick as your instructor as he made learning a pleasure. Mick had a marvellous smile and dedicated his working life to the railway. When he died it was a spontaneous reaction of all the drivers at Bedford that we make this permanent reminder of him. Now, when someone says ‘Where’s Mick?’ we can say, ‘He’s probably on his way to Brighton or on his way round the Wimbledon Loop!
07-02-12
King's Cross shop details announced
Network Rail has announced that the doors to the striking new concourse at King's Cross station will open to passengers on 19 March 2012, providing more space, better facilities and an improved range of shopping and food and drink outlets.
The opening will mark a major milestone in the redevelopment of the station, which started in 2007. It will be fully completed by the end of 2013 following the removal of the 1970s extension and canopy at the front of the station and the creation of a new 7,000m2 public square.
Ian Fry, Network Rail's King's Cross programme director, said: "On the outside passengers have seen King's Cross station transforming before their eyes for the last five years. We have been working hard behind the scenes to create a blend of old and new architecture with a strong mix of facilities worthy of the new-look station. Research tells us that passengers consistently rate high-quality facilities alongside convenient retail and catering as important station priorities. The new concourse at King’s Cross is designed to provide those facilities which will make journeys easier for passengers as well as appealing to those who like to combine their travel with a bit of shopping, eating or drinking.”
The opening of the new concourse will transform the way passengers use King’s Cross. Congestion at the station will be significantly reduced by new walking routes based on an innovative method of pedestrian modelling undertaken during the design phase of the project. A new one-way system will direct passengers to enter the station via the new concourse, and exit via the existing concourse at the bottom of the platforms, allowing better connections to other forms of public transport at both ends of the journey.
The high street brands which will be opening in the new concourse - some of which will be appearing in a British station for the first time - have also been unveiled today:
The opening will mark a major milestone in the redevelopment of the station, which started in 2007. It will be fully completed by the end of 2013 following the removal of the 1970s extension and canopy at the front of the station and the creation of a new 7,000m2 public square.
Ian Fry, Network Rail's King's Cross programme director, said: "On the outside passengers have seen King's Cross station transforming before their eyes for the last five years. We have been working hard behind the scenes to create a blend of old and new architecture with a strong mix of facilities worthy of the new-look station. Research tells us that passengers consistently rate high-quality facilities alongside convenient retail and catering as important station priorities. The new concourse at King’s Cross is designed to provide those facilities which will make journeys easier for passengers as well as appealing to those who like to combine their travel with a bit of shopping, eating or drinking.”
The opening of the new concourse will transform the way passengers use King’s Cross. Congestion at the station will be significantly reduced by new walking routes based on an innovative method of pedestrian modelling undertaken during the design phase of the project. A new one-way system will direct passengers to enter the station via the new concourse, and exit via the existing concourse at the bottom of the platforms, allowing better connections to other forms of public transport at both ends of the journey.
The high street brands which will be opening in the new concourse - some of which will be appearing in a British station for the first time - have also been unveiled today:
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07-02-12
Roodee Viaduct work gets underway
After months of jockeying for position with train operators and the council, runners and riders from Network Rail and Taziker Industrial Coatings are under starter’s orders, and the race is on to complete a viaduct refurbishment by the summer.
The off is expected this week (6-10 February 2012) and work should be finished in July.
Roodee Viaduct crosses the River Dee west of Chester station, between the racecourse and golf club, and carries the main railway line between England and North Wales
Chris Chatfield, Network Rail’s scheme project manager, said: “We are confining the work to times when the railway is going to be closed for other work so we don’t disrupt train services. This means we will mainly be working at weekends and occasionally overnight. Although the work is straightforward, this means it is going to take six months to complete.”
Contractors will be working from scaffolding suspended beneath the decks of the viaduct, which was built wide enough for four tracks but now only carries two.
They will grit blast the structure to take it back to bare metal and carry out repairs and strengthening where necessary. It will then have a protective coating applied to it before being repainted in its original grey colour.
The £1.5m project has been carefully planned to meet standards set by Cheshire West & Chester Council and the Environment Agency.
One of these is to encapsulate the work area in an environmental wrap to prevent the grit blasting process contaminating the land or river below the viaduct.
As a consequence of the encapsulation, a footbridge which belongs to the council but is attached to the side of the railway viaduct is also closing because it has to be included in the wrap.
Negotiations are underway between the council and Network Rail over the possible refurbishment of the footbridge, which could be completed while the viaduct work is being carried out.
The off is expected this week (6-10 February 2012) and work should be finished in July.
Roodee Viaduct crosses the River Dee west of Chester station, between the racecourse and golf club, and carries the main railway line between England and North Wales
Chris Chatfield, Network Rail’s scheme project manager, said: “We are confining the work to times when the railway is going to be closed for other work so we don’t disrupt train services. This means we will mainly be working at weekends and occasionally overnight. Although the work is straightforward, this means it is going to take six months to complete.”
Contractors will be working from scaffolding suspended beneath the decks of the viaduct, which was built wide enough for four tracks but now only carries two.
They will grit blast the structure to take it back to bare metal and carry out repairs and strengthening where necessary. It will then have a protective coating applied to it before being repainted in its original grey colour.
The £1.5m project has been carefully planned to meet standards set by Cheshire West & Chester Council and the Environment Agency.
One of these is to encapsulate the work area in an environmental wrap to prevent the grit blasting process contaminating the land or river below the viaduct.
As a consequence of the encapsulation, a footbridge which belongs to the council but is attached to the side of the railway viaduct is also closing because it has to be included in the wrap.
Negotiations are underway between the council and Network Rail over the possible refurbishment of the footbridge, which could be completed while the viaduct work is being carried out.
07-02-10
Rochdale passengers get improved Saturday services
From 18 February 2012, Northern Rail are introducing two additional Saturday evening services between Manchester Victoria and Rochdale.
The trains will leave Manchester Victoria at 19.55 and 20.55, with the return services from Rochdale at 20.25 and 21.25, providing a half-hourly service until late evening, when combined with the existing Calder Valley services.
Lee Wasnidge, Area Director West for Northern said: “In the run up to Christmas we ran these additional Saturday services in order to meet the increased demand for shopping and entertainment. With an increase in the cost of motoring, more people want to travel by train as rail travel is great value for money and more environmentally friendly. We are delighted to be able to respond now by providing these extra services every Saturday for Greater Manchester.”
Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee, said: “By listening to local rail users and looking at service patterns, we could see a definite demand for more Saturday evening trains between Manchester and Rochdale. We’ll always try to work with operators like Northern to make sure that local communities can access the right services at the right times, and it’s great to see the new Manchester-Rochdale services on the timetable as a result. Trains aren't just for getting people to work – they connect people with leisure opportunities too. Regular Saturday evening services mean people can enjoy an evening out and leave the car at home.”
Richard Greenwood, Chairman of Rail User Group STORM said: "STORM is very pleased that Northern has found it possible to fill in two gaps in the Saturday evening service between Manchester and Rochdale by running extra trains. Over the past three years Northern has made great strides in filling these gaps which is of great benefit to the travelling public."
The trains will leave Manchester Victoria at 19.55 and 20.55, with the return services from Rochdale at 20.25 and 21.25, providing a half-hourly service until late evening, when combined with the existing Calder Valley services.
Lee Wasnidge, Area Director West for Northern said: “In the run up to Christmas we ran these additional Saturday services in order to meet the increased demand for shopping and entertainment. With an increase in the cost of motoring, more people want to travel by train as rail travel is great value for money and more environmentally friendly. We are delighted to be able to respond now by providing these extra services every Saturday for Greater Manchester.”
Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee, said: “By listening to local rail users and looking at service patterns, we could see a definite demand for more Saturday evening trains between Manchester and Rochdale. We’ll always try to work with operators like Northern to make sure that local communities can access the right services at the right times, and it’s great to see the new Manchester-Rochdale services on the timetable as a result. Trains aren't just for getting people to work – they connect people with leisure opportunities too. Regular Saturday evening services mean people can enjoy an evening out and leave the car at home.”
Richard Greenwood, Chairman of Rail User Group STORM said: "STORM is very pleased that Northern has found it possible to fill in two gaps in the Saturday evening service between Manchester and Rochdale by running extra trains. Over the past three years Northern has made great strides in filling these gaps which is of great benefit to the travelling public."
06-02-12
Farringdon station steps closer to becoming London's newest transport hub
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, was one of the first to use the newly reopened London Underground entrance at Farringdon following an eight-week closure to restore and expand this grade II listed station on 6 February 2012.
As part of the Thameslink Programme, Network Rail have worked with London Underground to deliver 36 new ticket gates, 20 new staircases, one new footbridge, nine new ticket machines, two new entrances with two new ticket offices and this restored entrance.
Standing in the newly reopened ticket hall, the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: "Farringdon Station has already undergone a massive transformation, with a brand new ticket hall up and running, renovations to the entrances and many more improvements still to come. We are making vast essential upgrades to the transport infrastructure in the capital. By the time of the Olympics, this station will also be fully accessible with five new lifts, and before too long Crossrail will interchange here too, making millions of journeys easier for passengers."
This dramatic expansion is in preparation for Farringdon station becoming London’s newest transport hub as it will be the only station where London’s two biggest transport improvement programmes will meet.
Network Rail’s project director for Farringdon, Richard Walker, said: "From 2018 the revamped north – south Thameslink route will meet the new east – west Crossrail service, linking with existing Tube connections. With up to 24 trains an hour running in each direction on Thameslink and Crossrail, plus the Tube, Farringdon will be served by over 140 trains an hour.”
The Thameslink Programme is key for the future of London, allowing 50% longer trains to run, taking pressure off the Tube and delivering thousands more seats for commuter’s everyday.
London Underground’s programme sponsor for Thameslink, Jon Kirkup, said: “The new Farringdon Station will be a huge leap forward in integrating transport in London and providing another major rail transport hub for travellers. London Underground is more than ready to play its part in taking them to and from their destinations throughout the capital.”
Farringdon will provide links to three of London’s major airports, Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton, plus St Pancras International for Eurostar services, all while drastically reducing journey times.
Project notes
2012 is a landmark year for the capital’s railway. Not only does a successful Olympic Games depend on well built, planned and run infrastructure but a number of Network Rail’s biggest projects see significant completion before the summer.
February 2012 - New Blackfriars London Underground station opens, improvements include step-free access between the tube and Thameslink services
March 2012 - A spectacular new concourse for Kings Cross opens
April 2012 - Farringdon new London Underground heritage shop fronts unveiled following restoration
Mid 2013 - Kings Cross redevelopment is complete as a new public square the size of Leicester Square opens and the 1970’s façade is removed, revealing the original heritage architecture
2013 onwards - Major redevelopment of London Bridge station unlocking the full potential of the Thameslink Route and other services using that station
As part of the Thameslink Programme, Network Rail have worked with London Underground to deliver 36 new ticket gates, 20 new staircases, one new footbridge, nine new ticket machines, two new entrances with two new ticket offices and this restored entrance.
Standing in the newly reopened ticket hall, the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: "Farringdon Station has already undergone a massive transformation, with a brand new ticket hall up and running, renovations to the entrances and many more improvements still to come. We are making vast essential upgrades to the transport infrastructure in the capital. By the time of the Olympics, this station will also be fully accessible with five new lifts, and before too long Crossrail will interchange here too, making millions of journeys easier for passengers."
This dramatic expansion is in preparation for Farringdon station becoming London’s newest transport hub as it will be the only station where London’s two biggest transport improvement programmes will meet.
Network Rail’s project director for Farringdon, Richard Walker, said: "From 2018 the revamped north – south Thameslink route will meet the new east – west Crossrail service, linking with existing Tube connections. With up to 24 trains an hour running in each direction on Thameslink and Crossrail, plus the Tube, Farringdon will be served by over 140 trains an hour.”
The Thameslink Programme is key for the future of London, allowing 50% longer trains to run, taking pressure off the Tube and delivering thousands more seats for commuter’s everyday.
London Underground’s programme sponsor for Thameslink, Jon Kirkup, said: “The new Farringdon Station will be a huge leap forward in integrating transport in London and providing another major rail transport hub for travellers. London Underground is more than ready to play its part in taking them to and from their destinations throughout the capital.”
Farringdon will provide links to three of London’s major airports, Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton, plus St Pancras International for Eurostar services, all while drastically reducing journey times.
Project notes
2012 is a landmark year for the capital’s railway. Not only does a successful Olympic Games depend on well built, planned and run infrastructure but a number of Network Rail’s biggest projects see significant completion before the summer.
February 2012 - New Blackfriars London Underground station opens, improvements include step-free access between the tube and Thameslink services
March 2012 - A spectacular new concourse for Kings Cross opens
April 2012 - Farringdon new London Underground heritage shop fronts unveiled following restoration
Mid 2013 - Kings Cross redevelopment is complete as a new public square the size of Leicester Square opens and the 1970’s façade is removed, revealing the original heritage architecture
2013 onwards - Major redevelopment of London Bridge station unlocking the full potential of the Thameslink Route and other services using that station
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Left: The new Farringdon ticket hall.
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06-02-12
Network Rail bosses say 'NO' to bonus payments
The board of Network Rail has decided to recommend to its members that this Friday's (10 February 2012) meeting be adjourned. The board will take the opportunity to reflect further on how to incentivise performance in the company against the backdrop of the current context. It will continue to consult the Secretary of State on wider issues of governance in advance of the government's command paper.
Chairman, Rick Haythornthwaite, said: "Friday's meeting was not to approve a specific annual bonus payment for Executive Directors, but rather to amend a previously approved long term incentive scheme to ensure additional external scrutiny of performance. The issue of annual performance payments would only arise if Network Rail surpassed stretching performance thresholds and would only be decided in May after the end of the financial year.
Chief executive, David Higgins, said: "Even if this situation does arise this year, I and my directors decided last week that we would forego any entitlement and instead allocate the money to the safety improvement fund for level crossings. I can confirm that remains our intention."
The Secretary of State was informed of the decision to recommend adjournment this morning.
Chairman, Rick Haythornthwaite, said: "Friday's meeting was not to approve a specific annual bonus payment for Executive Directors, but rather to amend a previously approved long term incentive scheme to ensure additional external scrutiny of performance. The issue of annual performance payments would only arise if Network Rail surpassed stretching performance thresholds and would only be decided in May after the end of the financial year.
Chief executive, David Higgins, said: "Even if this situation does arise this year, I and my directors decided last week that we would forego any entitlement and instead allocate the money to the safety improvement fund for level crossings. I can confirm that remains our intention."
The Secretary of State was informed of the decision to recommend adjournment this morning.
06-02-12
Major upgrade for Drayton Park
First Capital Connect has officially unveiled major improvements at Drayton Park station. The extensive works were carried out in partnership with the London Borough of Islington and mark another chapter in the long history of the station.
The latest improvements come 108 years after Drayton Park was first opened on 14 February 1904 by the Great Northern and City Railway and are a welcome enhancement at this historic location.
The entire station has been refurbished including the station forecourt with its new covered cycle parking, the ticket hall, stairs to the platforms and the platforms themselves. There is also new lighting and signage and tactile surfaces to help the visually impaired.
Among the guests at the official opening was London Borough of Islington Councillor Paul Convery, responsible for Planning, Regeneration and Transport, and Florence Bloomer who works in Drayton Park ticket office. Florence had the job of cutting the ribbon to commemorate the station’s grand overhaul.
This project is just one of a number First Capital Connect will deliver over the coming year as it works with internal and external stakeholders on a number of enterprising schemes.
Ian Duncan-Santiago, Projects Director at First Capital Connect, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the results of this project - Drayton Park has been transformed and customers travelling from this station will find their experience much more pleasant. It’s great when a station is given such a fantastic makeover and staff and customers alike can really see and feel the benefits.”
Paul Convery said: “On behalf of Islington Council I am very pleased that the Drayton Park upgrade has been completed to such an excellent standard and delighted that Arsenal Football Club’s financial contributions have helped make this possible.”
Arsenal Football Club, known to fans worldwide as The Gunners, funded the improvements as one of the conditions for the planning approval it secured for the Emirates Stadium, reinforcing the important connection the club has with the local community and facilities.
The latest improvements come 108 years after Drayton Park was first opened on 14 February 1904 by the Great Northern and City Railway and are a welcome enhancement at this historic location.
The entire station has been refurbished including the station forecourt with its new covered cycle parking, the ticket hall, stairs to the platforms and the platforms themselves. There is also new lighting and signage and tactile surfaces to help the visually impaired.
Among the guests at the official opening was London Borough of Islington Councillor Paul Convery, responsible for Planning, Regeneration and Transport, and Florence Bloomer who works in Drayton Park ticket office. Florence had the job of cutting the ribbon to commemorate the station’s grand overhaul.
This project is just one of a number First Capital Connect will deliver over the coming year as it works with internal and external stakeholders on a number of enterprising schemes.
Ian Duncan-Santiago, Projects Director at First Capital Connect, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the results of this project - Drayton Park has been transformed and customers travelling from this station will find their experience much more pleasant. It’s great when a station is given such a fantastic makeover and staff and customers alike can really see and feel the benefits.”
Paul Convery said: “On behalf of Islington Council I am very pleased that the Drayton Park upgrade has been completed to such an excellent standard and delighted that Arsenal Football Club’s financial contributions have helped make this possible.”
Arsenal Football Club, known to fans worldwide as The Gunners, funded the improvements as one of the conditions for the planning approval it secured for the Emirates Stadium, reinforcing the important connection the club has with the local community and facilities.
06-02-12
Siemens hand over first Sochi Regional Train for Russia
Russian Railways (RZD) visited the Siemens factory in Krefield, Germany this week to inspect the first of their first Desiro RUS regional multiple-unit trains. The set was accepted and is now awaiting shipment. Delivery will be by ship to Ust Luga which is scheduled for late February. From this Russian sea port, the trains will continue their journey on Russian tracks to the Saint Petersburg depot, from where the trains will start their commissioning process.
The production of the Desiro RUS at the Siemens factory in Krefeld started in April 2011, Nine months later, th frst vehicles were handed over for shipment. The order covers 38 vehicles.
Due to the height and width of these vehicles, which are 4.85m in height and 3.48m wide, some major challenges have to be overcome. The coaches are too wide and too high to transport across Germany to the Sassnitz ferry port (Ruegen) by rail or road. For this reason, river and sea transport from Krefeld via Amsterdam to the German Island of Ruegen was the selected choice. Here, the coaches will be placed on the rails usinf Russian broad gauge tracks of 1,520 mm in width – and coupled together to form a train set. Then, a locomotive will push the Desiro RUS into the cargo bay of the railway ferry. Its arrival in Ust Luga is scheduled for March. From this Russian sea port, the trains will be transported to a depot in the Saint Petersburg area.
The new regional trains will provide for increased comfort for both passengers and staff. When compared with the trains currently in operation in Russia, the new Siemens train consumes approximately 30 percent less energy. The Desiro RUS, affectionately referred to as "Lastochka" by RZD (the Russian word for "swallow"), can reach a top speed of up to 160 km/h.
This rolling stock is a further development of the Desiro ML and was customized to meet the requirements of the Russian market – including resistance to temperatures of down to 40° (Celsius) below zero, larger railcar bodies and wider bogies.
In 2009 and 2010, Russian Railways placed contracts for a total of 54 Desiro RUS vehicles for service at the 2014 Olympic Winter Games in Sochi. The first 38 will be completely built in Krefeld; the remaining 16 will be manufactured in Yekaterinburg on the basis of increasing localization. Siemens has just begun investing approximately € 200 million in the construction of a factory in this city. In addition to production, Siemens will undertake the maintenance of the rolling stock over a period of 40 years. In total, the manufacturing and maintenance contracts are worth almost € 1.1 billion.
The production of the Desiro RUS at the Siemens factory in Krefeld started in April 2011, Nine months later, th frst vehicles were handed over for shipment. The order covers 38 vehicles.
Due to the height and width of these vehicles, which are 4.85m in height and 3.48m wide, some major challenges have to be overcome. The coaches are too wide and too high to transport across Germany to the Sassnitz ferry port (Ruegen) by rail or road. For this reason, river and sea transport from Krefeld via Amsterdam to the German Island of Ruegen was the selected choice. Here, the coaches will be placed on the rails usinf Russian broad gauge tracks of 1,520 mm in width – and coupled together to form a train set. Then, a locomotive will push the Desiro RUS into the cargo bay of the railway ferry. Its arrival in Ust Luga is scheduled for March. From this Russian sea port, the trains will be transported to a depot in the Saint Petersburg area.
The new regional trains will provide for increased comfort for both passengers and staff. When compared with the trains currently in operation in Russia, the new Siemens train consumes approximately 30 percent less energy. The Desiro RUS, affectionately referred to as "Lastochka" by RZD (the Russian word for "swallow"), can reach a top speed of up to 160 km/h.
This rolling stock is a further development of the Desiro ML and was customized to meet the requirements of the Russian market – including resistance to temperatures of down to 40° (Celsius) below zero, larger railcar bodies and wider bogies.
In 2009 and 2010, Russian Railways placed contracts for a total of 54 Desiro RUS vehicles for service at the 2014 Olympic Winter Games in Sochi. The first 38 will be completely built in Krefeld; the remaining 16 will be manufactured in Yekaterinburg on the basis of increasing localization. Siemens has just begun investing approximately € 200 million in the construction of a factory in this city. In addition to production, Siemens will undertake the maintenance of the rolling stock over a period of 40 years. In total, the manufacturing and maintenance contracts are worth almost € 1.1 billion.
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The first of the Russian Desiro RUS sets is seen at Krefeld under test.
04-02-12
End of the day for the Electro Motive plant in London, Ontario as Caterpillar pull the plug
Above: A view recorded inside the main erecting shop at the EMD plant off Oxford Street, London, Ontario on 1 December 1998 shows Union Pacific SD90MAC No. 8512 under final assembly, while a pair of brand new EWS Class 66/0s stand in the background. Colin J Marsden
Friday 3 February 2012 will go down as a sad day in railway history and especially for the people from London, Ontario, Canada, when American industrial giant Caterpillar announced the total closure of its locomotive construction plant in London, Ontario, putting 460 workers out on the street. This came just over a month after they were locked out by the owners for rejecting a new pay deal which effectively cut some workers wages by up to 50 per cent.
The dramatic move at the Electro-Motive factory, owned by Caterpillar subsidiary Progress Rail, confirmed the worst fears of the Canadian Auto Workers union before the lockout began, they could see that the US owned company wanted to concentrate its entire operations in the US. Electro-Motive said that labour costs were too high in London and sought to reduce them to be on par with its operations at a new locomotive assembly plant at Muncie, Indiana in the USA. Progress Rail/EMD still operate the massive plant at La Grage, Illinois.
The former General Motors Electro Motive plant has been responsible for the construction of thousands of diesel locomotives over the years for many countries throughout the world, including the Class 59/1s,59/2s and all the Class 66s for the UK. Right up until industrial problems over costs hit the site just before Christmas 2011, the plant was building new locomotives, some of the last being a batch of SD80s for Brazil, many of these were ripped from the plant just prior to Christmas for final completion at other non-EMD sites.
When the announcement came men were still on picket lines at the London plant as well as at Ingersoll, where one of the locos destined for Brazil was impounded by strikers on 25 January after it was being transferred from London to another finishing facility.
The Railway Centre has obtained a copy of one of the letters handed to the staff on the picket line at London, it read
Dear Employee:
Earlier today, we had the very unfortunate task of announcing the decision to cease production at Electro-Motive Canada’s London, Ontario facility. Our efforts – spanning about 9 months – to negotiate a competitive labor agreement with the Canadian Auto Workers union were not successful.
As you know, we compete in a global marketplace where orders for locomotives are won or lost based on extremely competitive pricing and the ability to meet short turnaround times. All facilities within EMC, Electro-Motive Diesel and Progress Rail Services must achieve and maintain competitive costs, quality and operating flexibility to win in the global marketplace. The London plant, primarily because of an antiquated labor contract, faced serious competitive disadvantages.
Even though EMC’s final offer addressed these competitive disadvantages, the union would not accept our offer. The gulf between the company and the union was simply too wide to resolve. Market conditions made today’s regrettable decision unavoidable.
We will now start the process of conducting an orderly closure of the London production operations, including the transfer of locomotive assembly operations to our competitive facilities in North and South America. We are confident these facilities will distinguish themselves to our customers in quality and service.
We appreciate your hard work on behalf of our customers, and your commitment to see our company become the leader in the global rail industry. Over the past year, we have made large capital investments to position our company to achieve this goal. We know we can count on your help as we realign our operations and show our customers that we are the company they can trust for all of their rail equipment needs.
Sincerely,
Billy Ainsworth
President and CEO
Caterpillar
In terms of the UK, the final locomotives built at the plant was DRS No. 66434, built to works number 20078946-04 which was delivered to the UK in November 2008.
03-02-12
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Photo: Network Rail
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03-02-12
Spanish trams for Midland Metro
Centro has announced that the Spanish-based manufacturer CAF are the preferred bidder for the new tram fleet for Midland Metro. The contract covers 25 'Urbos 3' five-section trams, in a deal worth approximately £40m.
The new fleet will replace the existing 16 trams currently on the Midlands Metro, and will provide the entire service once the 1.3km extension between Snow Hill and Birmingham New St via Bull Street, Corporation Street and Stephenson Street opens.
The Urbos trams will consist of five sections, with a capacity of around 200 passengers. Each set will be fully complaint with the Disability Discrimination Act.
Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro said “This is an important milestone in the delivery of a world class integrated transport network. Linking the £600m investment New Street station with the Jewellery Quarter, and the Black Country will stimulate our local economy.”
Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: “This has been an extremely rigorous tendering process and all the candidates have been of a very high standard. “The new fleet must offer the best value for money with a tram design that offers robustness with a first-class journey experience for the passenger.”
The new trams will start running by late 2014 and the extension should open in 2015.
The new fleet will replace the existing 16 trams currently on the Midlands Metro, and will provide the entire service once the 1.3km extension between Snow Hill and Birmingham New St via Bull Street, Corporation Street and Stephenson Street opens.
The Urbos trams will consist of five sections, with a capacity of around 200 passengers. Each set will be fully complaint with the Disability Discrimination Act.
Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro said “This is an important milestone in the delivery of a world class integrated transport network. Linking the £600m investment New Street station with the Jewellery Quarter, and the Black Country will stimulate our local economy.”
Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: “This has been an extremely rigorous tendering process and all the candidates have been of a very high standard. “The new fleet must offer the best value for money with a tram design that offers robustness with a first-class journey experience for the passenger.”
The new trams will start running by late 2014 and the extension should open in 2015.
03-02-12
c2c's recycling excellence
National Express train operator c2c has been hailed as Britain’s most environmentally friendly train operator in a recent report. The company has made great strides over the last year in ensuring that as much waste as possible from their depot and stations is recycled.
c2c has a comprehensive recycling scheme in place at its East Ham depot where around 96% of waste each month is taken away for recycling.
The recycling process for c2c starts at the depot where waste is segregated into specific containers for scrap metal, dry recyclable material, paper and cardboard. c2c has their own paper compactor permanently on site at East Ham to ensure that efficient use is made of the “paper and cardboard” skips. All waste that does not fall into these categories is segregated as general industrial waste. The general industrial waste is then sent to local firm AHERN’s recycling depot, where a second round of sorting is undertaken - here any further products that can be recycled (such as metal, rigid plastic and wood) are separated. Working together c2c and Ahern are ensuring that as much waste as possible from the depot is recycled. In December alone, over 36 tonnes of waste was successfully recycled.
Julian Drury c2c’s Managing Director said: “Over the last year we have been doing our utmost to ensure as much waste as possible from our depot is recycled. We’ve made great strides in recent months and now around 96% of waste from East Ham is recycled each month. As a company we aim to be as environmentally friendly as possible.”
c2c also has an extensive recycling scheme in place which covers all of its stations, ensuring all waste is taken away and sorted for recycling, with as little as possible going to landfill.
c2c has a comprehensive recycling scheme in place at its East Ham depot where around 96% of waste each month is taken away for recycling.
The recycling process for c2c starts at the depot where waste is segregated into specific containers for scrap metal, dry recyclable material, paper and cardboard. c2c has their own paper compactor permanently on site at East Ham to ensure that efficient use is made of the “paper and cardboard” skips. All waste that does not fall into these categories is segregated as general industrial waste. The general industrial waste is then sent to local firm AHERN’s recycling depot, where a second round of sorting is undertaken - here any further products that can be recycled (such as metal, rigid plastic and wood) are separated. Working together c2c and Ahern are ensuring that as much waste as possible from the depot is recycled. In December alone, over 36 tonnes of waste was successfully recycled.
Julian Drury c2c’s Managing Director said: “Over the last year we have been doing our utmost to ensure as much waste as possible from our depot is recycled. We’ve made great strides in recent months and now around 96% of waste from East Ham is recycled each month. As a company we aim to be as environmentally friendly as possible.”
c2c also has an extensive recycling scheme in place which covers all of its stations, ensuring all waste is taken away and sorted for recycling, with as little as possible going to landfill.
02-02-12
Eurotunnel open new training centre in Calais
Thursday 2 February 2012 saw the official inauguration of the new Centre International de formation ferroviaire de la Côte d’Opale (CIFFCO1), at Coquelles in the Pas-de-Calais region of France. CIFFCO is a Groupe Eurotunnel subsidiary specialising in railway skills training. This is the first time that a privately owned transport group has provided a training centre for all European railway operators, infrastructure managers and their subcontractors which is capable of training technicians to work on the French national rail network and also those of other neighbouring countries.
CIFFCO, which is certificated by the Etablissement public de sécurité ferroviaire (EPSF)2 delivers programmes for 15 different railway jobs. The centre is open to students who have obtained basic level qualifications for ground working activities and to holders of driving diplomas. The course catalogue for CIFFCO is accessible at: www.ciffco.com
CIFFCO, which has 20 employees, has been established from the experience and success gained at Eurotunnel over the past 18 years. It has a main building with a floor space of 1100m², 8 lecture rooms, including one for IT, a 135 seat auditorium and 8, state of the art, mobile simulators. The centre can accommodate several hundred trainees each year and up to a total of 10,000 training days.
The EPSF has recently conferred the training of its own French main-line driver examiners to CIFFCO and in future ALSTOM will also send the new drivers from its Centre d’essais ferroviaire (Railway trials centre) to the site.
Groupe Eurotunnel has made an initial investment of €3million to set up and equip CIFFCO.
Jacques Gounon, Chairman and Chief Executive of Group Eurotunnel stated: “The unique CIFFCO structure is equipped with the latest training tools and technology and has been designed to tackle the increasing demands of the railway sector. From its base in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais, it brings an additional strength to the region and its centre for railway excellence, in which Eurotunnel has always played a leading role. ”
CIFFCO, which is certificated by the Etablissement public de sécurité ferroviaire (EPSF)2 delivers programmes for 15 different railway jobs. The centre is open to students who have obtained basic level qualifications for ground working activities and to holders of driving diplomas. The course catalogue for CIFFCO is accessible at: www.ciffco.com
CIFFCO, which has 20 employees, has been established from the experience and success gained at Eurotunnel over the past 18 years. It has a main building with a floor space of 1100m², 8 lecture rooms, including one for IT, a 135 seat auditorium and 8, state of the art, mobile simulators. The centre can accommodate several hundred trainees each year and up to a total of 10,000 training days.
The EPSF has recently conferred the training of its own French main-line driver examiners to CIFFCO and in future ALSTOM will also send the new drivers from its Centre d’essais ferroviaire (Railway trials centre) to the site.
Groupe Eurotunnel has made an initial investment of €3million to set up and equip CIFFCO.
Jacques Gounon, Chairman and Chief Executive of Group Eurotunnel stated: “The unique CIFFCO structure is equipped with the latest training tools and technology and has been designed to tackle the increasing demands of the railway sector. From its base in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais, it brings an additional strength to the region and its centre for railway excellence, in which Eurotunnel has always played a leading role. ”
02-02-12
London Midland shortlisted for award
London Midland’s employee magazine, ‘Between the Lines’, has been shortlisted in two categories at the forthcoming Institute of Internal Communications (IoIC) Central Region Awards. A panel of expert judges will announce if the publication has won a Class Winner trophy, Award of Excellence certificate or Certificate of Merit in the categories Magazine and New or Re-launched publication.
Richard Baker, Engagement Manager says: "Our employee magazine is the result of extensive involvement of our people, from the creation of our stories to the cross functional editorial panel and I’m delighted our hard work is being recognised by such a prestigious institute.”
Between the Lines is full colour, glossy magazine with a print run of 2,400 copies and online version. It is produced six times per year by London Midland in partnership with communications agency scarlettabbott.
Richard Baker, Engagement Manager says: "Our employee magazine is the result of extensive involvement of our people, from the creation of our stories to the cross functional editorial panel and I’m delighted our hard work is being recognised by such a prestigious institute.”
Between the Lines is full colour, glossy magazine with a print run of 2,400 copies and online version. It is produced six times per year by London Midland in partnership with communications agency scarlettabbott.
02-02-12
Alstom win Singapore Metro contract
The Land Transport Authority of Singapore has awarded Alstom a contract worth around €240 million to provide new trains for two metro lines, the Circle Line (CCL) and North East Line (NEL), along with signaling upgrade for both lines.
18 trains will be delivered to NEL whereas 16 will be supplied to CCL. Delivery is to start in 2015. These additional trains will boost capacity of Singapore metro, in order to meet a growing demand which has increased from 1.78 million passengers in 2009 to over 2 million 2010.
Part of Alstom’s Metropolis range, these driverless metros will be designed in Alstom sites of Valenciennes, Le Creusot (France) and Sesto (Italy). They will be manufactured in China-based Alstom sites, SATCO (Shanghai Alstom Transport Co. Ltd) and SATEE (Shanghai Alstom Electrical Equipment Co. Ltd). They are a modernized version of the trains currently in service on CCL and NEL, also provided by Alstom.
“These projects show Alstom’s expertise in interfacing our technology with existing infrastructure and meeting customer expectations. We are very proud to be part of these projects as they will provide greater transportation convenience to many passengers in Singapore”, declared Henri Poupart Lafarge, President of Alstom Transport.
18 trains will be delivered to NEL whereas 16 will be supplied to CCL. Delivery is to start in 2015. These additional trains will boost capacity of Singapore metro, in order to meet a growing demand which has increased from 1.78 million passengers in 2009 to over 2 million 2010.
Part of Alstom’s Metropolis range, these driverless metros will be designed in Alstom sites of Valenciennes, Le Creusot (France) and Sesto (Italy). They will be manufactured in China-based Alstom sites, SATCO (Shanghai Alstom Transport Co. Ltd) and SATEE (Shanghai Alstom Electrical Equipment Co. Ltd). They are a modernized version of the trains currently in service on CCL and NEL, also provided by Alstom.
“These projects show Alstom’s expertise in interfacing our technology with existing infrastructure and meeting customer expectations. We are very proud to be part of these projects as they will provide greater transportation convenience to many passengers in Singapore”, declared Henri Poupart Lafarge, President of Alstom Transport.
02-02-12
Crossrail announce plans for Connaught Tunnel
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Crossrail has announced that it has adopted a new approach to restoring and enlarging the Connaught Tunnel which is safer and more efficient.
Connaught Tunnel in the Royal Docks was built in 1878 and was part of the North London Line until 2006. The tunnel will be extensively refurbished as part of works to construct Crossrail’s new Abbey Wood branch. Sections of the existing tunnel are in a poor structural condition. In 1935, larger ships began scraping the bottom of the Royal Victoria Dock which sits above the Connaught Tunnel. As part of work to deepen the dock, the central section of the tunnel was narrowed with brickwork removed and steel segments installed. Crossrail originally planned to strengthen the central section of the tunnel by removing the existing steel linings and back filling the entire section with concrete foam. These tunnels would then have been enlarged by boring through the concrete to create tunnels that are large enough for Crossrail trains to pass. Crossrail will now place cofferdams in the Connaught Passage between the Victoria and Royal Albert Docks, pump out the water and create a dry construction site allowing workers to dig down to the tunnel to undertake the enlargement work through a ‘cut and cover’ approach. Linda Miller, Connaught Tunnel Project Manager said: “The central section of the Connaught Tunnel is in a poor structural condition. To ensure we can undertake the tunnel enlargement work as safely as possible we have now decided to drain a section of the Royal Docks and then dig down into the tunnel. This will be the first time the tunnel has been exposed from above ground since its construction in the 1870s. While we will be using modern techniques, we will be using a similar cut and cover approach that was used to build the original tunnel which saw the tunnel constructed first with the docks then built over the top.” During World War II, more than 40,000 explosive devices were dropped on London with the docks and rail lines particularly targeted due to their crucial role in delivering supplies to the British war effort. Connaught Tunnel was hit by a bomb in 1940. Crossrail will be undertaking further repair work to the damaged section of the tunnel. Ahead of major works on the Connaught Tunnel commencing next year, Crossrail is undertaking an extensive search of the wider construction area to identify any remaining undiscovered devices that failed to detonate on landing during World War II. The geology of the Royal Docks area meant that some devices that didn’t explode on landing sunk into the first few metres of soil. A team of highly trained specialists are currently using armoured vehicles with magnetic equipment to investigate the ground around Connaught Tunnel. Their work involves sending probes into the ground in three metre intervals and analysing the results. Crossrail already has a detailed understanding from existing London-wide maps and ground surveys about where potential devices could exist. The dock floor above and around the Connaught Tunnel has already been searched by divers and was given the all clear. The specialists will shortly begin surveying under Connaught Bridge directly above the Connaught Tunnel. Any potential devices identified in the ground through the survey will be reported to the authorities for further investigation. Similar ground surveys will be undertaken at other Crossrail sites in east London. Linda Miller continued: “We know from existing maps where bomb drops occurred in London during the 1940s. Ahead of major refurbishment work on the Connaught Tunnel, we will be undertaking detailed checks to identify whether there are any remaining devices that are yet to be uncovered. All the information obtained through our magnetic ground surveys will be used to update existing London-wide mapping as well as inform future construction projects.” After surveys for unexploded ordnance are completed, Crossrail archaeologists will open excavation trenches in an attempt to locate evidence of human settlement and farming in the area dating back nearly 6,000 years. Working with the Museum of London Archaeology, Crossrail also aims to map the effect of the River Thames on the area during historic and prehistoric times. Sitting above the Connaught Tunnel near Connaught Bridge is the tunnel pump house. This attractive Victorian building is too small to accommodate the larger modern pumping equipment that will be installed as part of the tunnel’s major refurbishment. Subject to structural surveys, Crossrail proposes donating the structure to the SS Robin Trust. The SS Robin is one of the world’s oldest steamships and was built in east London. The ship’s trust is seeking a permanent berth in the Royal Docks and the pump house structure would form the quayside ticket office. The cofferdam works which will commence in 2013 have been planned in conjunction with the Royal Docks Management Authority and timed to start after the London Boat Show. |
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01-02-12
New North Sheen footbridge designs go on display
Network Rail has unveiled images of the proposed new footbridge at North Sheen which will be going on display to the public next week before being submitted to the Richmond Council for final planning approval.
The footbridge – ‘Tree Top Walkway by Stephen Speak – was selected as the winner of a competition hosted by Zak Goldsmith MP and Richmond councillors to come up with an alternative design to the standard railway footbridge. Eight designs were judged to be feasible by Network Rail and they were presented, and voted on, at the public meeting.
The bridge design concept, which engineers have now converted into a detailed and practical scheme, will be on display at the Holy Trinity School (between 1pm and 3pm) and Calvert Court, Manor Park, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1XY (between 10am and 12pm) on 10 February 2012.
Richard O’Brien, Network Rail’s route managing director for Wessex, said: “The proposed new bridge will allow pedestrians to cross the railway while the Manor Road level crossing barriers are down. The community has put a lot of effort into the design process and played an active role in choosing the winner. We urge them to support the planning application so we can make the design a reality.”
Cllr Katharine Harborne, North Richmond Ward, added: “I am delighted with this revised design it is what residents voted for a well designed low impact bridge - something we can all be proud of for years to come. I can't thank Network Rail enough for really working with us and listening to our community.”
The footbridge – ‘Tree Top Walkway by Stephen Speak – was selected as the winner of a competition hosted by Zak Goldsmith MP and Richmond councillors to come up with an alternative design to the standard railway footbridge. Eight designs were judged to be feasible by Network Rail and they were presented, and voted on, at the public meeting.
The bridge design concept, which engineers have now converted into a detailed and practical scheme, will be on display at the Holy Trinity School (between 1pm and 3pm) and Calvert Court, Manor Park, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1XY (between 10am and 12pm) on 10 February 2012.
Richard O’Brien, Network Rail’s route managing director for Wessex, said: “The proposed new bridge will allow pedestrians to cross the railway while the Manor Road level crossing barriers are down. The community has put a lot of effort into the design process and played an active role in choosing the winner. We urge them to support the planning application so we can make the design a reality.”
Cllr Katharine Harborne, North Richmond Ward, added: “I am delighted with this revised design it is what residents voted for a well designed low impact bridge - something we can all be proud of for years to come. I can't thank Network Rail enough for really working with us and listening to our community.”
01-02-12
First phase of Edinburgh-Glasgow consultation reaches end
Network Rail has completed the first phase of one of Scotland’s biggest consultation exercises.
For over seven months the company has been seeking the public’s views on the £1bn Edinburgh Glasgow Improvement Programme (EGIP), which will transform rail services and infrastructure on key routes across the central belt.
Covering eight local authorities*, which are home to almost two-thirds of Scotland’s population, the consultation, which started in June, came to an official end on 31 January 31 2012.
As part of the consultation exercise, the EGIP project team held over 200 meetings with the public, local authorities and corporate stakeholders, distributed more than half-a-million information leaflets and received over 450 submissions.
Originally due to end in November, the consultation was extended by two months due to the high level of interest shown by communities and groups across the country.
David Simpson, Network Rail route managing director for Scotland, said: “EGIP will deliver significant benefits for communities across central Scotland, reducing journey times and increasing service levels across key routes. The consultation has generated huge levels of interest from both the general public and business communities and we have received valuable feedback on what people want from their rail services which will help us to ensure EGIP delivers real befits for passengers.”
Transport Minister Keith Brown said: “The conclusion of the first phase of the EGIP consultation is a significant achievement. The responses received will ensure that EGIP continues to be developed in the most informed manner, the volume of interest also demonstrates the vital social and economic role that Scotland’s railways play in the fabric of Scottish life. This is just one example of the considerable investment this Government is making to support more and better rail services for the benefit of passengers and business. We are committed to bringing tangible benefits to passengers through projects such as EGIP, which will reduce journey times and increase capacity.”
The project team will now assess the feedback received as part of the consultation process and review the programme before beginning a second phase of consultation in the summer.
EGIP is being funded by Transport Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government, with the new infrastructure financed through Network Rail’s Regulatory Asset Base.
The programme is expected to deliver a range of benefits including a fastest journey time of 37 minutes on the main Edinburgh Waverley-Glasgow Queen Street route and increased service levels on all routes between the two cities from the current 10/11 services per hour to 13 services per hour.
EGIP will also see the electrification of 350km of the existing rail network in the central belt, including the main Edinburgh Waverley-Glasgow Queen Street line, and provide opportunities to increase services and reduce journey times on routes between Alloa and Dunblane and Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Notes
EGIP will:
* Increase service levels on all routes between the two cities to 13 services per hour
* Introduce new and increased service opportunities between Edinburgh and Glasgow on all routes - with a fastest journey
time of 37 minutes
* Introduce new and increased service opportunities between Alloa / Dunblane and Glasgow - reducing journey times by up to
10 minutes.
* Introduce new and increased service opportunities between Dunblane and Edinburgh - reducing journey times by up to five
minutes
* Create a new rail/tram interchange station at Gogar (Edinburgh Gateway) facilitating access to Edinburgh airport and the
surrounding area
* Transform Haymarket station into a modern interchange facility
* Provide additional capacity for services between Edinburgh and Fife and the North East of Scotland
* Electrify eight routes in the central belt, or 350km of the existing rail network.
For over seven months the company has been seeking the public’s views on the £1bn Edinburgh Glasgow Improvement Programme (EGIP), which will transform rail services and infrastructure on key routes across the central belt.
Covering eight local authorities*, which are home to almost two-thirds of Scotland’s population, the consultation, which started in June, came to an official end on 31 January 31 2012.
As part of the consultation exercise, the EGIP project team held over 200 meetings with the public, local authorities and corporate stakeholders, distributed more than half-a-million information leaflets and received over 450 submissions.
Originally due to end in November, the consultation was extended by two months due to the high level of interest shown by communities and groups across the country.
David Simpson, Network Rail route managing director for Scotland, said: “EGIP will deliver significant benefits for communities across central Scotland, reducing journey times and increasing service levels across key routes. The consultation has generated huge levels of interest from both the general public and business communities and we have received valuable feedback on what people want from their rail services which will help us to ensure EGIP delivers real befits for passengers.”
Transport Minister Keith Brown said: “The conclusion of the first phase of the EGIP consultation is a significant achievement. The responses received will ensure that EGIP continues to be developed in the most informed manner, the volume of interest also demonstrates the vital social and economic role that Scotland’s railways play in the fabric of Scottish life. This is just one example of the considerable investment this Government is making to support more and better rail services for the benefit of passengers and business. We are committed to bringing tangible benefits to passengers through projects such as EGIP, which will reduce journey times and increase capacity.”
The project team will now assess the feedback received as part of the consultation process and review the programme before beginning a second phase of consultation in the summer.
EGIP is being funded by Transport Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government, with the new infrastructure financed through Network Rail’s Regulatory Asset Base.
The programme is expected to deliver a range of benefits including a fastest journey time of 37 minutes on the main Edinburgh Waverley-Glasgow Queen Street route and increased service levels on all routes between the two cities from the current 10/11 services per hour to 13 services per hour.
EGIP will also see the electrification of 350km of the existing rail network in the central belt, including the main Edinburgh Waverley-Glasgow Queen Street line, and provide opportunities to increase services and reduce journey times on routes between Alloa and Dunblane and Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Notes
EGIP will:
* Increase service levels on all routes between the two cities to 13 services per hour
* Introduce new and increased service opportunities between Edinburgh and Glasgow on all routes - with a fastest journey
time of 37 minutes
* Introduce new and increased service opportunities between Alloa / Dunblane and Glasgow - reducing journey times by up to
10 minutes.
* Introduce new and increased service opportunities between Dunblane and Edinburgh - reducing journey times by up to five
minutes
* Create a new rail/tram interchange station at Gogar (Edinburgh Gateway) facilitating access to Edinburgh airport and the
surrounding area
* Transform Haymarket station into a modern interchange facility
* Provide additional capacity for services between Edinburgh and Fife and the North East of Scotland
* Electrify eight routes in the central belt, or 350km of the existing rail network.