Digital signalling now leading the way in North London

Govia Thameslink
Govia Thameslink

Over 50% of Govia Thameslink’s Great Northern trains between Finsbury Park and Moorgate are now controlled by digital signals allowing a greater frequency of trains to operate on the line.

Adoption of the European Train Control System (ETCS) means the trains can run with lower separation as they are continually fed safe target speeds via computer systems meaning more reliable and consistent services.

Govia Thameslink Railway ran its first digitally signalled train in 2023 and has been steadily increasing the number to now being over half of the trains going to the City of London.

Oliver Turner, head of digital signalling (Head of ERTMS) at GTR, said: “We are delighted that our Great Northern commuters can now expect at least every other train to be digitally signalled.

“It represents a significant step towards a digital future in which technology will improve customer journeys on both the Northern City Line and, eventually, the East Coast Main Line. We are proud to share our knowledge and experience gained here with the rest of the rail industry.”

The introduction of ETCS is part of the wider programme East Coast Digital Programme, which will see digital ETCS rolled out on the East Coast mainline, a first for the UK and will provide the foundation for future expansion of digital signalling across the UK rail network.

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