On Tuesday, 26th May, British Transport Police (BTP) Chief Constable Lucy D’Orsi opened a dedicated Security Operations Centre at Great Western Railway’s (GWR) Swindon headquarters.

With the support of the Department for Transport and Network Rail, this is the first such centre to be opened by a UK train operator. In continuous use 24/7i, it will improve the safety and security of customers and colleagues by using CCTV to monitor GWR’s complete network in real time.

The centre has a high-performance Barco video wall with eight live-monitoring screens, which allow operators to select either live CCTV monitoring or incident data, maps, and operational intelligence. The real-time feature of the centre will enable faster decision-making and a more coordinated response to incidents across its network.

The use of advanced analytics will enable risk areas to be proactively targeted by monitoring known hotspots of anti-social behaviour, crime, and trespassing. By working closely with British Transport Police (BTP) and regional constabularies, the centre will be able to provide high-quality footage and intelligence to support investigations, thereby improving case outcomes and enhancing public confidence.

The centre also functions as a centralised control room for:

• Station and car park alarm systems.
• Monitoring and support for colleagues working alone.
• Incident coordination across multiple sites

In the future, it is planned to expand the centre to support the management of contractors and volunteers across the rail environment.

The effect of trespassing on the railways can be seen when a single trespass incident in 2025 caused delays that cumulatively cost the railway £500,00. The trespasser was later sentenced to 18 months in prison for trespassing on one of the country’s busiest railway lines.

“It was my pleasure to open GWR’s new Security Operations Centre. The centre demonstrates how innovation and technology can improve safety across our railways. “By bringing together real-time intelligence and surveillance in one location the centre will provide BTP with vital support in tackling crime and ensuring the railway is a safe place for both passengers and rail staff.”

Lucy D’Orsi, BTP Chief Constable

“The launch of our Security Operations Centre represents a major milestone in modernising rail security and sets a benchmark for future developments across the UK rail network. At its heart, this centre is about protecting the people who make our railway run – our customers and colleagues. Their safety is our top priority, and by harnessing advanced technology and real-time collaboration, we are creating a safer, more secure environment for everyone who travels on or works within our network.”

Joe Graham, GWR Business Assurance and Property Director