Digital signalling tests to disrupt East Coast Main Line over bank holiday weekend
Rail journeys south of Peterborough may face disruptions due to final testing phase
Passengers travelling on the East Coast Main Line over the August bank holiday weekend should prepare for potential disruptions due to further testing of digital signalling systems.
Engineering works will affect journeys between Peterborough and London from 20.00 on Saturday, 29th August, until 08.00 on Monday, 31st August.
During this time, rail replacement bus services will be in operation for some routes.
This initiative is part of the £1.4 billion East Coast Digital Programme, which aims to introduce digital in-cab signalling, replacing traditional lineside signals with real-time information delivered directly to train drivers.
The project promises to provide more reliable, greener, and safer rail services in the long term.
Ricky Barsby, Network Rail's head of access integration for the programme, emphasised the importance of this work as part of the transition to digital signalling:
“The work taking place involves the final preparations for us to begin a gradual introduction of digital in-cab signalling on the East Coast Main Line. The ability to control trains in this way will enable a more resilient and reliable railway that is fit for the future."
Barsby also mentioned that efforts have been made to avoid the busiest travel times over the bank holiday, advising passengers to travel before or after Sunday, 30th August, if possible:
“We’re sorry to anyone whose journey is affected and grateful to passengers for their patience and understanding."
Additionally, train operators have coordinated with Network Rail to minimize disruptions, encouraging passengers to plan ahead:
"We encourage customers to plan ahead and check their journey before travelling so they can choose the option that best suits them."
In a special arrangement, on Sunday 30th August, LNER will divert two return services from Newcastle to Bedford, allowing passengers to connect onto Thameslink services to London St Pancras.
This will enable around 2,500 people to complete their journey by train.
Passengers are advised to check their routes with National Rail Enquiries or their respective train operators before travelling.
Currently, there is no step-free access to Thameslink platforms at London St Pancras due to lift refurbishment.
Travellers requiring step-free access should seek further information on alternative routes.