Railtrack plc

Network Management Statement - West Coast Main Line
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date 20 February 1997
source Railtrack plc
type Press release

note (figures illegible in originating copy)

The West Coast Main Line Route Modernisation (WCML) is one of Railtrack's most ambitious projects and demonstrates its commitment to developing the railway network to meet the needs of the 21st Century.

The modernisation being progressed involves the introduction of new innovative technologies, so far unused in this country.

The core programme offers a range of improvement upgrade opportunities and present the chance for growth of the rail business which can be exploited in partnership with train operating customers.

Key elements of the core programme involve new radio based in-cab signalling technology, centralised control, improvements to track, structures and power supply and remodelling of some station approaches and junctions.

These will mean a reliable train service, the opportunity to increase the number of trains on the route, a modern form of train control which inherently provides automatic train protection and less maintenance, thereby reducing engineering possession time.

The freight opportunities are currently being evaluated by Railtrack and its freight operating customers with the possibility of upgrading the infrastructure to allow higher capacity freight wagons and road trailers piggybacked on to rail wagons.

In taking forward the modernisation strategy and the upgrade options for the West Coast Mail Line, Railtrack will continue to work with customers and other interested parties, including local authorities, to ensure that the minimum practicable disruption is caused to train operators and their customers while work is being carried out.

Railtrack is currently developing a detailed implementation strategy for both the modernisation of the passenger upgrade work and over the next four months will be talking to customers about their emerging business needs and aspirations. The conclusions will be published in a consultation document at the end of June this year.

Railhub Archive ::: 1997-02-20 RTK-005