At the Railway Industry Association’s Innovation Conference in Newport on March 25, Shamit Gaiger, Managing Director of the West Coast Partnership, shared exciting news about a potential overhaul of fare structures. The aim? To introduce a more budget-friendly pricing model akin to low-cost airlines over the next couple of years. This initiative is all about tackling affordability, which Gaiger identified as a major concern for travelers.
Luisa Moisio, Research Director at RSSB, also took the stage to discuss an innovative project with Transport for Wales. They’re testing new dampers on Mk IV coaches used for Cardiff to Manchester routes. If successful, this could serve as a prime example of how technology from other industries—like Formula One racing—can enhance rail travel. The dampers were originally designed by McLaren and are now being adapted for trains.
Greater Anglia has teamed up with signlive to roll out an app that connects customers who are deaf or hard of hearing with British Sign Language interpreters. This service aims to improve interaction between these passengers and customer support teams.
A notable restoration project was recently completed by Story Contracting. They refurbished a historic wrought iron bridge from 1879 that spans the River Awe along the Oban line. The extensive work included installing scaffolding,grit blasting steelwork,masonry repairs,and even replacing timber decking—all while ensuring safety and structural integrity.
C2C Trenitalia has renewed its partnership with security provider Amulet for another five years, plus an option for two additional years—a move aimed at enhancing passenger safety across their services.
The leadership landscape is shifting at Network Rail’s Eastern Region. On March 24, Ellie Burrows stepped into her new role as Managing Director alongside Jamie Burles as Deputy Regional Managing Director. Burrows previously led Network Rail’s Southern Region and takes over from Jake Kelly who returns to manage operations in North West & Central Region.
Northern recently launched its ‘Forget Me Not’ service on March 19 along the Middlesbrough – Whitby route—a dementia-friendly initiative designed to create community among those living with dementia and their caregivers. General Manager Lisa Williams emphasized how vital it is for participants to connect through activities like live music and massages during their journey; upcoming services are set for May 21, July 16, and September 17.
If you’re looking toward future opportunities in construction management or engineering within HS2 projects in the Midlands area—Balfour Beatty Vinci‘s undergraduate scheme is now accepting applications! Starting placements this July will offer hands-on experience across various roles including civil engineering and business support functions like IT or finance.
Transport for Wales welcome Marie Daly as Chief Operating Officer starting April 1st; she’ll be taking over from Jan Chaudhry-van der Velde while continuing her role focused on customer experience.
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The Railway Industry Association has appointed tristan McMichael from Alstom as Chair of its Northern Ireland Leadership Group while Ashley Gierth from Babcock Rail steps into Vice-Chair duties.
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