Podcast highlights: Season 2, Episode 9

How we help you unlock value

Expand each option to see the solutions Helen outlined for the industry challenges above.

Cost reduction

In September, we introduced a new type of permissible and temporary speed restriction sign. This is expected to enable benefits of millions of pounds over 5 years. This new signage, says Helen, contributes to greater operational efficiency by allowing trains to accelerate when the front of the train reaches the end of the speed restriction.

Safe and satisfied customers

We conducted research to set out a methodology for assessing seats for passenger comfort. This work is ongoing, with more developments in the pipeline.
Improving system reliability and resilience

We recognise that employee health and wellbeing underpin operational performance. So, we launched a long-term Health and Wellbeing Strategy in 2024. We’re also supporting industry through a driver attention and monitoring trial and investigating tools for effective rostering and planning decisions.

Adopting new technology

We produced guidance on the testing and validation of new technologies. This will make it easier for industry to adopt innovations. It will also make it simpler for supply chain companies to enter the industry.

Freight safety and growth

In March 2024, we published research on aerodynamic risk from freight trains. It aimed to identify how freight train speeds above 75 mph could be accommodated. This work could mean fitting more freight services between passenger services, improving performance, and opening new freight rail markets.

Value to society and sustainability

We launched the Sustainable Rail Blueprint in November 2023. We’ve also completed a pilot project to create engagement materials for building awareness of railway careers among disadvantaged young people. 

How we identify opportunities

Helen explains that we serve as the data aggregator for the rail industry. This means we’re trusted with a wealth of information from various stakeholders. In turn, this allows us to leverage our core team of analytic experts to develop advanced capabilities, including AI, to better meet your needs.

By working closely with industry experts, we transform this data into meaningful insights that drive improved decision-making and operational efficiency on the ground.

Looking ahead

Turning her focus towards 2025, Helen stressed the importance of ongoing stakeholder engagement to better understand industry needs and challenges. 
Next year, we’re already planning to:

• Build upon PRIMA.
• Develop an air quality tool.
• Create a ‘one-stop shop’ for trespass and suicide prevention.

Key takeaways

• Cost reduction: New speed restriction signage is estimated to save millions over 5 years.
• Passenger comfort: We’re doing ongoing research to improve seat comfort.
• Employee wellbeing: We’ve launched a long-term strategy to enhance industry health and wellbeing.
• Technology adoption: Last year, we released guidance for testing and validating new technologies.
• Freight growth: Our research on accommodating higher freight train speeds shows promise for the sector.
• Sustainability: We continue to promote railway careers and improve air quality.

Resources you might find interesting

• Strategic Business Plan 2024-29
• Proportionate Risk Response to Implementing Mitigating Speeds to Assets
• Sustainable Rail Blueprint
• GMGN2696 Iss 1 - Assessment of Passenger Seat Comfort
• Health and Wellbeing Data Strategy
• RIS-0733-CCS - Lineside Operational Signs
• RIS-0734-CCS - Signing of Permissible Speeds
• RIS-0735-CCS - Signing of Temporary and Emergency Speed Restrictions
• Superfast freight aerodynamic assessment and mitigations (T1303 and COF-ARF)