Major re-signalling project planned on Ferrybridge to Goole line

Network Rail has awarded Alstom with a contract for the resignalling of the Ferrybridge to Goole line as part of the major signalling investment programme for Network Rail’s Eastern region.

Starting in 2021, the project will commence with the initial staging works on the renewal of six level crossings, including point machine conversions and civils works. The project will commission in the summer of 2023 and will improve the reliability of the line’s signalling equipment by replacing life-expired technology.

As part of the £28m contract, Alstom will carry out the two work packages – in Ferrybridge and in Goole – to improve the reliability, safety and efficiency of the Ferrybridge to Goole line that serves as a major arterial line for the transport of passengers and supplies across the Yorkshire region.

Alstom will apply a host of digital-ready technology solutions that will renew the line’s signalling equipment to bring a safer environment and a step-change in the speed, ease and delivery of level crossings operations in the area. Alstom’s experience in signalling will ensure that the upgrades provide a future-proofed solution for the Eastern region, allowing all services and users in the North Yorkshire area to benefit from the improvements as the country looks to recover from COVID-19 and beyond.

The announcement follows confirmation of Alstom’s status as one of the UK’s most significant signalling providers, building on their track record of delivering large scale upgrades. Last year, Alstom completed the Bristol Area Signalling Renewals and Enhancements.

David Maddison, Regional Delivery Director (Eastern Region), Alstom UK & Ireland, said: “The Ferrybridge to Goole line is a key asset not just to Yorkshire, but to the country as a whole. Passengers expect a reliable and modern rail service, whilst supplies need to be transported along the line efficiently and seamlessly.

“Through our upgrades in the area, Alstom is able to future-proof the line’s signalling with digital ready solutions. We are proud that Network Rail has selected our expertise and technologies to improve the Ferrybridge to Goole line and we look forward to delivering much-needed improvements for the Eastern region.”

Ben Lynch, Signalling Project Director (Eastern Region), Network Rail, said: “It is essential to deliver a regular stream of vital rail improvements to help the UK’s road to recovery with regards to COVID-19. By boosting the reliability, safety and efficiency in North Yorkshire via the Ferrybridge to Goole line, Network Rail are putting the interests of all users and services at the forefront of our recovery drive by delivering future-proof technology courtesy of Alstom. We are excited to see the applied upgrades and technologies transform the region’s signalling and look forward to working with Alstom on the project.”

The scope of Alstom’s works includes the closure of a number of existing signal boxes, including Cutsyke, Prince of Wales, Goole. Additionally, the work includes the renewal of level crossings at Ferrybridge area (Field Lane, Skinner Lane, Cutsyke) and Goole area (Thorne Moorends, Creykes, Boothferry Road, Recontrolled crossings on the Rawcliffe single line).

Alstom’s digital-ready technologies upgrade and futureproof the railway while working alongside legacy trackside assets:

• Smartlock 400 interlocking – directly interfaces with axle counters, and trackside objects via Smart IO, removing the need for intermediate relays
• Smart IO object controllers – trackside objects that communicate directly with the Smartlock interlocking. Eliminates ageing interface equipment, overcoming long-term reliability and obsolescence issues
• Signalling control systems at York Rail Operating Centre (ROC), which will include automatic route setting for Goole. Prince of Wales will be added to the current Ferrybridge NX panel.

In addition, Alstom has committed to reduce energy usage on any signalling projects by 20% and ensure at least 90% of waste is recycled as part of the industry’s ongoing efforts to make rail more sustainable.

Photo credit: Alstom

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