Network Rail has selected Alstom for a major design and delivery contract as part of a £194 million investment for the renewal of the signalling systems in the Cambridge area.

The Cambridge re-signalling project aims to replace the existing systems with a modern, state-of-the-art signalling technology which means better reliability for passengers and reduced maintenance. It will also provide a platform ready for digital technologies such as the European Train Control System (ETCS).

The £130 million contract awarded to Alstom is the largest single contract to be awarded by Network Rail under the Major Signalling Framework Agreement (MSFA) during the current five-year investment cycle. As part of the project, Alstom will deliver the complete renewal of the signalling system for the Cambridge area to replace the existing equipment which was installed in the early 1980s. The contract includes the replacement of almost 700 items of life expired signalling equipment with a modern signalling system and:


• Upgrade of the signalling control equipment at Cambridge power signal box with Alstom's control systems and workstation

• Upgrade of the signalling safety interlocking equipment in the Cambridge area with a modern signalling technology using the Alstom Smart Lock 400GP Computer- Based Interlocking (CBI) system

• Upgrade of seven level crossings from half barrier to full barrier to improve safety for all crossing users

• Renewal of the telecommunications and power supplies to support the new systems

• Relocating control of signalling to the Cambridge power signal box and decommissioning of three mechanical signal boxes.

This signalling renewal project covers 125 miles of track, stretching from Meldreth and Elsenham to the south, through central Cambridge, up to Ely and Thurston to the east. The project also enables the delivery of wider re-signalling works within the Anglia region, including future integration with the proposed new Cambridge South station, as well as the potential future integration with East West Rail.

Design work has commenced, with the work on the ground expected to be delivered during four key commissioning stages to minimise disruption of the operational railway. The final commissioning of the new signalling system is scheduled for winter 2024.