Network Rail signallers are ready to welcome trains on the new East West Rail route between Oxford and Milton Keynes, utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance the reliability of rail journeys.
The signalling technology on this new railway line, commissioned in October 2024, is the first of its kind in Britain, promising improved reliability for both passenger and freight services.
A new workstation has been established at Network Rail’s Rugby rail operating centre, which also controls the West Coast Main Line, Europe’s busiest mixed-use railway. The 'Claydon workstation' is equipped with the latest systems and software, supported by AtkinsRéalis’ Advanced Signalling Method (ASM), and benefits from high-capacity fibre connectivity to ensure safe and reliable train operations.
The new rail route has created six jobs for newly qualified signallers in Rugby, with plans to expand the team as future phases of East West Rail are developed.
Network Rail, in collaboration with its East West Rail Alliance Partners—AtkinsRéalis, Laing O’Rourke, and VolkerRail—completed the £1.2bn investment in ‘Connection Stage One’ (CS1) of the project in October 2024. Since then, Network Rail has been working with the Department for Transport (DfT) and industry partners to run test trains and prepare the infrastructure for future passenger and freight services.
The new signalling infrastructure boasts:
- 59 new signals.
- 154,490 metres of signalling cable.
- 41 miles of track.
- 18 points (to direct trains at junctions).
- 71 axle counter sections (to detect available track) using 96 axle counter heads.
- 54 signalling location cases.
Testing and training will continue to take place over the coming months. While there is no designated freight route on the infrastructure yet, freight operators can now use the track when needed.
Gary Walsh, route director for West Coast South, said: “We’re pleased to welcome further test trains on the brand new East West Rail route between Milton Keynes and Oxford, where future passenger and freight services will benefit from some of the most advanced signalling technology in use on the British rail network.
“Whilst testing continues, I want to remind local people about how to stay safe on the railway which means keeping off the tracks and using level crossings safely.”
A Department for Transport spokesperson said: "We’re committed to transforming rail connectivity across the country. We are proud to have completed the build of this highly anticipated route, improving transport connections between Oxford and Milton Keynes.
“We are now following usual procedure and working with partners and train providers to start passenger services as quickly as possible.”
Mark James, Alliance director for East West Rail Alliance, said: “We are extremely proud to have been a part of returning this railway line from Bicester to Bletchley back to the mainline passenger network for the first time in 50 years. We look forward to seeing passengers using the new infrastructure, connecting the communities along the route and facilitating east west rail journeys.”
Image and video credits: Network Rail
