Great Northern Class 387/1 is in Worksop for ETCS in-cab modifications

CLASS 387/1 No. 387101 was moved from Hornsey depot to Worksop on October 24, where it will become the first Great Northern unit in its sub-class to be fitted with ETCS (European Train Control System) equipment. All 29 of the operator’s Class 387/1s, which are used on services to and from King’s Cross, will receive the in-cab technology. The work being carried out at Worksop is part of the East Coast Digital Programme, which will see the system introduced to – and ultimately replace – traditional lineside signalling on the East Coast Main Line between London and Stoke Tunnel, south of Grantham, and also on the Northern City Line from Moorgate.

Equipment

Alstom will install the latest UK version of ETCS (BL3 R2, also known as 3.6.0) as part of the Atlas 3 system. As well as software, this will include a new digital driver’s dashboard, a new Automatic Warning System and Train Protection and Warning System (AWS and TPWS), Doppler radar and antennae under the solebar, a main computer (at the body end of the first carriage) and software for a new train control monitoring system.

Testing

Once the work on No. 387101 has been completed, static testing will take place at Derby Litchurch Lane works. This will be followed by dynamic trials at the Melton Rail Innovation and Development Centre. The unit is expected to be released in July 2023, with subsequent units being converted at Hornsey depot. ETCS software on Great Northern Class 717s will be upgraded from 3.4.0 to 3.6.0 specification ahead of the first digitally signalled Northern City Line services, which are expected to operate next year.