Click here to listen to the latest rail news on Tuesday, 25th May 2021
The latest rail news on Tuesday, 25th May 2021
HS2 Ltd has revealed a new vacuum excavation technique for piling which could have massive benefits for the wider construction industry in the UK and abroad.
The innovation, developed by specialist contractors working on HS2, is better for the environment, safer for workers and reduces construction noise, to the benefit of neighbouring communities and businesses.
The “zero trim pile technique” involves sucking out excess concrete whilst still wet using a new vacuum excavator technique.
Network Rail has joined railway organisations from around the world in signing the International Union of Railways (UIC) Climate declaration.
The UIC Climate declaration sets out a pledge for members to communicate their support and ambition, and brings together a global community of sustainability leaders working collaboratively to cut carbon emissions and make rail travel greener.
In becoming the latest signatory, Network Rail has committed to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions, achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2050 and contribute to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are a collection of 17 interlinked global goals designed to be a “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all”.
A new app available today will make it easier and quicker for disabled people to request assistance for their train journeys, helping people to travel with confidence.
The ‘Passenger Assistance’ app, developed with train operators, will offer passengers the choice to request assistance, update their profile and review their journeys from anywhere using their smartphone, a first for public transport anywhere in Great Britain.
This can speed up assistance bookings and give customers greater confidence on their journeys as they can instantly amend accessibility requirements on their profile via the app.
Finally, the largest operational mechanical signal box in the world has just had its biggest refurbishment in more than a decade with work on the 117-year-old, Grade II listed Severn Bridge Junction signal box in Shrewsbury now complete.
The historic building has its original 180 levers inside with 89 still in use today and is responsible for signalling around 280 trains every day.
Now the historic building has been given a new lease of life, in keeping with its Edwardian charm, thanks to a £250,000 project carried out by Network Rail and MPH Construction.
Photo credit: Network Rail
