Network Rail is set to undertake major upgrades on the East Coast Main Line on Saturday, May 17, and Sunday, May 18, as part of the £1.4 billion East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP). This work marks a significant step towards the adoption of digital signalling technology, aiming to enhance the railway's reliability, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
Over the weekend, teams will focus on:
- High-speed digital signalling testing between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin
- Preparatory digital signalling work between Biggleswade and Peterborough
- Removal of traditional signals between Moorgate and Finsbury Park
The high-speed testing will involve running trains through the upgraded section between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin to test the new digital signalling systems, ahead of their planned activation in early 2026. Additionally, preparatory work for digital signalling will be carried out between Biggleswade and Peterborough, essential for the future implementation of in-cab signalling.
The removal of traditional signals between Moorgate and Finsbury Park is a landmark achievement. This section will become Britain’s first fully 'no signals' commuter railway, with trains operating exclusively using in-cab digital signalling. Great Northern services already utilise digital signalling on this route, and the removal of physical signals completes the transition to a fully digital railway.
Ricky Barsby, Network Rail's head of access integration for the East Coast Digital Programme, said: “The testing work is another step towards the introduction of digital, in-cab signalling on the East Coast Main Line, enabling a more reliable and greener railway. The work will also see the removal of traditional signals on a stretch of commuter railway in London, pointing the way to the next generation railway.
“We recognise the work will lead to journeys taking longer over that weekend. We would like to thank all those affected for their patience and understanding.”
A spokesperson on behalf of train operators said: “Across the weekend, our colleagues will be working hard to keep people on the move and get them safely to their destination. There is rarely an ideal time to carry out such large-scale engineering work, but these upgrades will bring major improvements to customer journeys in the future. We want to thank all of our customers for their understanding across the weekend.”
During the railway closure, engineers will also renew and refurbish track switching equipment near Hornsey and Huntingdon, while completing drainage work near Fletton. These improvements will allow for smoother, more reliable journeys on the East Coast Main Line.
Image credits: Network Rail
