28.06.12
Network Rail launches ‘information portal’
Network Rail has launched a new online ‘information portal’ to make it easier for people to get facts, figures and data about the infrastructure operator.
This is part of the company’s transparency agenda and includes information on pay and expenses, project data and budgets, level crossing risk assessments, and even real-time train running data.
David Higgins, Network Rail’s chief executive said: “I believe in transparency. It helps improve decision making and can drive culture change in an organisation. Given the amount of money that taxpayers put into the rail industry, it is only correct they are given the right to scrutinise what their money is paying for.
“I believe Network Rail has to take the lead in opening up the industry to new levels of transparency and I hope others will soon follow that lead.”
The company has also asked for suggestions on what else should be added to the portal, saying the current information available is only an “initial offering”.
Mark Farrow, Network Rail’s head of transparency, said : “Public feedback will help guide us as we decide what information and data we can make available in the future. We won’t be able to publish everything people suggest – there will be some times where security, cost or commercial confidentiality issues will intervene – but we will do everything we can to keep the scheme’s content fresh, relevant and informative.”
Visit www.networkrail.co.uk/transparency
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