ERTMS

The introduction of European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) to the UK rail network is a major challenge since it involves a fundamental change in the way the UK railway operates. The programme, which started in May 2001, centres around the proposed national rollout of ERTMS Level 2 without lineside signals on the rail network. RSSB is engaged as part of the cross-industry programme team and is providinf important input into the system and operational design, which will lead to the development of standards, rules and signalling principles to support ERTMS operation.

The National ERTMS Programme (NEP) Team has been focused on making the business case for, and planning the application of, ERTMS. A significant cross-industry review, ‘Red Diamond’, by the ERTMS Strategy Group in December 2006 concluded that widespread application of ERTMS on Britain’s railways is affordable and beneficial supported by an appropriate migration strategy.

Through the Programme, RSSB is supporting strategic work to determine the most suitable and cost-effective widespread roll out of ERTMS for Great Britain,

The first Project being delivered under the Programme is the Cambrian Early Deployment Scheme in Wales. ERTMS technology will be piloted on the Cambrian Line from just outside Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and Pwllheli. Four partners, Arriva Trains Wales, Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC), Network Rail and RSSB are working together with supplier Ansaldo STS to deliver the Cambrian Project to resignal the route and mitigate the risks associated with national ERTMS fitment.

For further information on RSSB’s involvement please contact Steve Roberts on 020 7904 7483. Further general information is also available from the Network Rail National Helpline on 08457 114141.

Press release, issued 19 December 2006

Network Rail ERTMS frequently asked questions