06.12.13
Industry debates the Future of Rail
The Future of Rail provided a fresh look at the biggest issues in rail, where industry leaders discussed the way forwards for franchising, capacity, and better maintenance to move to a preventative, not reactive model of asset management.
RTM attended, and heard about the latest technology, systems and working practices that can deliver this future.
Transport minister Baroness Kramer kicked off the event with a speech setting out the strategic priorities for the rail industry and the three main challenges it faces; the need to meet increasing demand, provide value for money, and improve accessibility.
Run by Marketforce and the Institute of Economic Affairs (IAE), the event brought together rail professionals for informative presentations, networking opportunities and the chance to discuss the big issues in rail.
Delegates heard from Network Rail, train operators, builders and engineers, as well as DfT officials, the ORR and representatives from HS2.
Sessions focused on alliancing, the importance of digital communications, franchising, capacity, new technology and asset management. A case study from the Netherlands also called for smarter connections between cities and their stations – a project the Campaign for Better Transport’s Stephen Joseph speaks to RTM about in the next edition.
For a full report of the conference, see the Dec/Jan edition of Rail Technology Magazine.
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]
(Image shows Alistair Dormer, chief executive of Hitachi, addressing delegates.)