Network Rail announced on 19 January 2007 that it has awarded Ansaldo the contract for the first stage of a £60m project for the implementation of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) in the UK.

This new in-cab signalling system is based on information being relayed directly to the train via a digital radio instead of by lineside signal. With this new system, the time and distance needed to safely separate trains is managed dynamically, allowing for greater capacity on the line as well as efficiency and reliability improvements owing to the removal of the old signalling systems.

The plan is to replace the old signalling system on the Cambrian route between Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth and Pwllheli with the new in cab system. Ansaldo will work with the Network Rail to draw up designs for implementation.

The first stage contract is for the design of the system and it has been awarded to Ansaldo because of its significant experience in designing and implementing ERTMS systems in Italy, Spain and France. The design work will commence immediately and is expected to be complete by summer 2007.

Network Rail’s Director, Major Projects & Investment, Simon Kirby, said: “This is an exciting time for the Cambrian route. Network Rail is committed to enhancing and improving performance and this project could bring big benefits to the line while allowing us to learn more about ERTMS. After a very close examination of the competing bids, we felt that Ansaldo has the relevant experience and also demonstrates the best overall value.”

Mike Bagshaw, commercial director for Arriva Trains Wales, said: “The installation of modern signalling that will deliver increased reliability on the Cambrian route is good news and Arriva Trains Wales welcomes the opportunity to participate in the development of this system.”

The European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is a cab-based signalling and train control system that could deliver benefits to passengers by improving performance, increasing capacity and improving the cost efficiency of the railway. It also offers full automatic train protection (ATP). On the Cambrian line Network Rail and industry partners plan to implement level 2 of the ERTMS system. All trackside railway signals will be removed and new axle-counters, interlocking and balises will be fitted along the route, along with the digital radio link and a new Control Centre to manage the system to be built in Machynlleth. Using data from these systems the onboard computer on each train will allow it to reach its maximum permitted speed while maintaining a safe braking distance. The new system will replace the current RETB (Radio Electronic Token Block) signalling system on the 215km Cambrian route from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and Pwllheli. This route was chosen because it is a self-contained part of the network