New Digital Signalling System Enhances Travel Experience on Welsh Rail Routes

Transport for Wales and Comms Design have successfully tested a new digital signalling system, Request to Stop (RtS), on rural rail routes. This trial, conducted at Llanfairpwll and Ty Croes stations on July 23-24, promises to significantly improve the travel experience for passengers exploring Wales.

The RtS system allows travelers to request a train to stop using an on-platform communication system, which sends a signal directly to the driver of the inbound train. This ensures that passengers waiting to board are efficiently accommodated, eliminating the need for manual signaling or uncertainty about whether a train will stop.

For travelers, especially those visiting the picturesque rural areas of Wales, this innovation means a more seamless and convenient journey. No longer will they need to worry about missing a train or dealing with the frustration of an unscheduled stop. The RtS system enhances timetable reliability and efficiency, making it easier to plan trips and explore the beautiful Welsh countryside.

This development is particularly beneficial for those carrying luggage, pushchairs, or bicycles, as it simplifies the boarding process. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues or health conditions that make manual signaling difficult will find the new system much more accessible.

In a similar initiative, the Far North Line in Scotland has also introduced RtS kiosks at several stations, enhancing travel for passengers in remote areas. These kiosks allow passengers to request a stop with the push of a button, significantly improving the travel experience by ensuring stops are made only when needed. This system has been well-received, leading to its expansion across more stations, providing a safer and more reliable method for train operations.

The project, funded by the Department for Transport (DfT) and Innovate UK, as part of the First of Kind (FOAK) competition, aims to bring novel technologies to the rail market. By utilizing GSM technology, the trial has laid the groundwork for future enhancements with GSM-R.