Thameslink trials digital signalling that could boost rail capacity

Thameslink has tested an upgraded signalling system on one train, supporting a shift toward in-cab signalling for the East Coast Main Line passenger fleet. The core section currently uses ETCS version 2 but depends on trackside equipment to detect train locations. ETCS 3.6.0 enables continuous reporting of precise train positions, reducing reliance on trackside infrastructure, lowering maintenance costs, and improving reliability by removing equipment that can fail. Govia Thameslink Railway has already adopted ETCS 3.6.0 on the Northern City Line and removed redundant signals. The latest tests with Network Rail and Siemens Mobility verify seamless operation with existing onboard systems and readiness for future digitally signalled routes. Level 3 signalling is expected to increase capacity through dynamic spacing and improve flexibility during disruption while reducing future signalling installation costs. Passenger ETCS services on the ECML between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin are expected later this year using Class 717 trains, with Class 700 migration starting in 2027 and further upgrades preparing for other main lines.

"At the moment, the Thameslink core section uses European Train Control System (ETCS) version 2 signalling, but it still relies on trackside equipment to detect train locations. Switching to the upgraded ETCS 3.6.0 allows trains to continuously report their precise positions. That could reduce the need for trackside infrastructure, cut maintenance costs and improve reliability by removing equipment that can fail on the railway itself."

"Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) recently switched to ETCS 3.6.0 on the Northern City Line and has started removing the now- redundant trackside signals. With the latest test, Thameslink is moving to the same system in the core network via Blackfriars station. The latest tests, carried out alongside Network Rail and Siemens Mobility, were designed to ensure the upgraded software works seamlessly with the train's existing systems while preparing the fleet for future operation on digitally signalled routes."

"In the longer term, Level 3 signalling is also expected to allow trains to safely run closer together by creating more dynamic spacing between services, increasing capacity on busy routes without needing major new infrastructure. Railway engineers also expect it to offer operational flexibility during disruption while reducing the cost and complexity of installing signalling on future upgrades."

"The first passenger services using ETCS on the ECML, between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin, are expected to begin later this year using Class 717 trains. Thameslink's Class 700 fleet is expected to start migrating to ETCS operation on the ECML from 2027, with the software upgrades also helping prepare the trains for future digital signalling on the Brighton Main Line and Midland Main Line."

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