Further ETCS tests completed on ECML

On Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December 2024 further testing of the newly installed ETCS between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin was carried out. This involved a Grand Central Class 180 DMU and a Great Northern Class 717 EMU and required the railway to be closed in and around the affected section. The testing went well and brings the project a step closer for trains to run on this route using digital signalling from late 2025.

Ricky Barsby, Network Rail’s head of access and integration, ECDP, said: “We completed further testing to check the new system is working well under a range of scenarios. We thank all passengers whose journeys were affected for their patience. The vital work is bringing us a step closer to a more punctual, reliable and greener East Coast Main Line.”

The testing will continue at various stages in the coming months, involving different trains and sets of equipment. Much of the work is done overnight, avoiding any impact on regular passenger services.