Delivery of longer, heavier freight trains

As part of our Rail Logistics solution for HS2, we collaborated closely with key stakeholders across the rail supply chain, including Network Rail, to facilitate the trial and successful deployment of longer, heavier trains to all three of the project’s rail connected disposal sites. Through Network Rails SPR (Service Plan Review) process we were able to undertake a coordinated review of our planned rail services to increase our overall train weights through running longer and heavier trains within the existing timetabled slots. Ultimately, delivering greater efficiency and capacity on a reduced number of trains.

On behalf of our Client, HS2, our team engaged with Network Rails Freight Delivery team to begin conversations regarding increasing train lengths and starting the SPR process. We were responsible for co-ordinating all key stakeholders and ensuring the trial conditions were put in place.
When we began operating spoil trains in 2021, all services were running at 20 wagons in length with a baseline payload of 1400 tonnes per train. Once we had completed successful trials through the SPR process over the Autumn period we were able to increase train lengths to an average of 22 wagons, delivering an average of 1600 tonnes per train.