A new signalling system through South Kirkby is now up and running, which will improve rail services through the area.
Following the redundant signalling system which was installed over five decades ago and becoming too costly to maintain, the new system which is based at the Rail Operating Centre in York, features Alstom’s Smartlock400 technology.
This prevents any conflicting train movements at junctions using an interlocking-based computer system.
This system, similar in style in the one that was installed in south London last autumn, acts as an extra layer of protection in the event of someone attempting to alter the points for another train when one is already signalled to pass the same over points at a junction.
The system will deny permission to anyone attempting to alter the points until after any signalled train or trains have passed.
Alstom’s Smartlock400 technology is also fitted with a smart system which can operate the twenty-six new signals and associating points quickly, keeping trains moving if there are any delays.
Plus, the technology keeps a watchful eye on train movements at junctions and in block sections, enabling trains to run closer together through the South Kirkby area.
The new set up also compatible with the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) which is set to be fully up and running across the UK rail network in the coming years.
In addition to the new signals, lineside cabling and power supplies have also been installed.
Network Rail’s teams have also enhanced their own safety by using this new system while working on the lines in the area, thanks to the implementation of new warning systems.
The 17-mile route and devices enable staff to “lock out” sections of track for safety-critical work, which are projected to save 880 hours of staff maintenance costs year.
“The South Kirkby resignalling project brings noticeable benefits for passengers and our colleagues.
The changes improve reliability and performance for services, while also boosting safety for our teams working on the track.
This work was also combined with several other projects in the area to avoid increased passenger and freight disruption in the future, and being ‘digital-ready’ will be a major benefit in the future.”
Paul Carabine, Network Rail senior project engineer
Responses
Great to see upgraded signalling between Wakefield Westgate and Doncaster at South Kirkby Junction long overdue.
The article omits to say where South Kirkby is. Kirkby is in Merseyside, but the photos don’t look like Merseyrail tracks. There’s nothing in the article to say whether it’s in Scotland, Cornwall, or even London.
The article makes it sound as it introduces something new to stop someone attempting to alter the points for another train when one is already signalled to pass the over the same points at a junction. That is not new, has not been for well over 100 years when it has been the backbone of all signalling systems.
I got confused thinking if South Kirkby was in Merseyside but actually it isn’t. But yes you are absolutely correct.