Electrifying trains 'could give passengers value-for-money rail'

Date: 29/2/2012

Network Rail is investigating ways of replacing diesel traction with electric-powered trains to improve the UK's tram and rail network.

It believes this will give passengers better value-for-money and is calling on consumers and partners to submit plans and ideas.

The organisation has established an alternative solutions route utilisation strategy (RUS), which it hopes will help it to meet the challenge of providing customers with an effective transport network.

Network Rail's Group Strategy Director Paul Plummer said: "It is only by rising to that challenge that the industry can continue to play a significant role in transporting people and goods in an efficient, sustainable and environmentally friendly way."

He added that a second draft of the RUS will be published for consultation later this year.

The group recently revealed plans to establish a new rail operating centre in York, which will offer training facilities and control operations along the east coast from King's Cross to the Scottish borders.

Posted by Mary Treen