ETCS FITMENT FOR FIVE ENGINES

Network Rail has revealed it is looking to fit the European Train Control System (ETCS) to five steam locomotives, initially to ensure that steam can run on routes that will utilise the new signalling system.

Diesel freight locomotives are currently being fitted with the wireless in-cab signalling system ahead of its roll-out on the East Coast Main Line between King’s Cross and Peterborough in 2024.

Lexie Wrightson, programme manager for Freight and National Passenger at Network Rail, said the intention is to upgrade locomotives in “bite-size chunks”.

She told delegates at the Charters Conference in York on October 24: “The proposal is for five steam and one ‘heritage’ diesel to be fitted, which will allow you all to have a train that can run on the ECML South while the rest of the stock is being fitted.”

Ms Wrightson confirmed NR would pay for the installation of the system, either by contracting out the work or reimbursing locomotive owners.

●● Analysis: Down Main, pages 52-53.