UK Rail Industry: Performance, Infrastructure, and Future Trends

Introduction

In November 2023, the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) released data indicating that the UK rail industry’s performance had declined. This report focuses on the key aspects of the railway’s performance, infrastructure projects, and the involvement of various companies.

Performance and Punctuality

The RDG’s data for November 2023 showed that only 78.4% of trains arrived on time (Public Performance Measure, PPM). This represents a decrease from 83.1% in the same period of the previous year. The Moving Annual Average (MAA) for PPM was 79.4%, a decrease from 83.0% the previous year. Furthermore, the number of cancelled or significantly late trains was 4.4%, up from 3.0% in November 2022 and 3.6% in October 2023. Delays were attributed to various causes, with Network Rail’s infrastructure issues accounting for 29.8% of the delay minutes, and train operators being responsible for 27.6%.

Infrastructure Projects

Several infrastructure projects were underway. The Transpennine Route Upgrade, a major project, faced challenges, with completion now expected in 2030–2032. The overall budget for this project is £11.5 billion. The first phase of the Midland Main Line upgrade, including the Kettering to Corby section, was completed. Work continued on the East Coast Main Line, including track renewals and signaling upgrades. The Great Western Route Modernisation project saw ongoing upgrades to overhead line equipment.

Rolling Stock and Technology

New rolling stock deliveries included Class 707 trains for Southeastern. Testing and commissioning of the new Class 707 trains continued. Introduction of new electric multiple units (EMUs) and diesel multiple units (DMUs) were also planned. The implementation of European Train Control System (ETCS) was underway on several routes, including the Great Western Main Line.

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Company Updates

Network Rail continued to focus on infrastructure maintenance and upgrades. Train operating companies managed their fleets and addressed service disruptions. Alstom’s Coradia Liner V160 trains were mentioned in the context of ongoing operations and maintenance. Southeastern was involved in the introduction of new rolling stock. Further details on specific projects and operational strategies for each company were provided.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the UK rail industry experienced performance declines in November 2023. Infrastructure projects are ongoing, while the implementation of new rolling stock and technology like the ETCS is progressing. Network Rail and train operating companies are actively managing these challenges.

Company Summary

Alstom: A global rolling stock manufacturer and rail technology provider.

Network Rail: The owner and infrastructure manager of most of the railway network in Great Britain.

Rail Delivery Group (RDG): An industry body representing train operating companies and Network Rail.

Southeastern: A train operating company.

Technology

ETCS (European Train Control System): A signaling and train protection system.