Green Signals
Green Signals is a podcast about railways, covering their politics, economics, people and history. Hosts Nigel Harris, former managing editor and events director of RAIL magazine, and Richard Bowker, former chair and CEO of the Strategic Rail Authority, discuss current issues and speak with decision-makers. The show also explores notable events from nearly 200 years of railway history. It aims to be topical, sometimes controversial and frequently irreverent while remaining relevant to the industry.
Episodes
159. GBR’s New HQ in Derby… and New Chairman are announced
Sir John Kingman is the new Chair of GBRGBR’s new HQ in Derby is announced. Are things finallyhappening?And we hear from Dr Julia Buckley, MP for Shrewsbury aboutwhat she thinks of the ORR’s decision to reject an open access application**Enter the Traingift giveaway to be in with a chance ofwinning one of two £50 Traingift vouchers: https://www.traingift.com/en/greensignals/?utm_source=youtube&
158. Is Open Access finished? ORR rejects ALL applications for new West Coast Main Line services
Is Open Access finished? We ask the question as ORR rejects ALL applications for new West Coast Main Line servicesIs London-style ticketing the answer everywhere, or has technology moved on?And Richard divides opinion on rolling stock financing. Again.In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:35) Is Open Access finished?(14:56) Is London-style ticketing the answer everywhere?(31:36) Rolling stock financing
“Rock deals in Hope” – Exclusive interview with Rock Group Founder, Mark Swindell
Few issues polarise opinion quite so much in the rail industry (and amongst those who follow what goes on in the industry) as the pros and cons of rolling stock leasing. One of the challenges is to understand exactly what people mean by rolling stock leasing though, because the model has changed so much in the 30 or so years since the practice burst on the scene as part of rail privatisation. One
Trains to Europe: Are lower fares and more trains coming?
For thirty years, High Speed services between London, Paris and Brussels have been in the hands of single operator – Eurostar. Things may be about to change. On 13th August 2026, the ORR announced the pre-approval of Virgin Train’s Track Access Agreement for High Speed 1. Other operators are keen to join them.Not before time some would say. The rest of Europe is liberalising access to its high-spe
157. Are trains now to be owned by the Government? New Rolling Stock Strategy suggests they might
Are trains now going to be owned by the Government? The new Rolling Stock and Infrastructure Strategy suggests they might… Discontinuous electrification – a cost-effective answer to wires? Or short-term gain for long term pain?And RAIB releases their interim report into June’s fatal collision at Elstow.In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:34) Rolling Stock and Infrastructure Strategy(19:34) Discontinu
Vale of Rheidol – The Little Line in the Hills. With Tim Dunn
The Vale of Rheidol railway that runs between Aberystwyth and Devil’s Bridge in Mid Wales is unique. It survived the end of British Rail steam in 1968 and was only sold to a private Trust in 1989. It has been run ever since as a profitable, commercial railway with no volunteers, just paid staff. For those who work here, this is their job. Their livelihood. Yet this is no Disney attraction. This is
Reopening the branch line to Portishead. We get to see the work underway!
The Portishead branch closed to passenger services in 1964. The campaign to reopen it began almost immediately. Over the intervening years, there have many false dawns but finally, after decades of lobbying, the dream is about to become reality.Work is now well underway to reopen the railway and in September 2026, Green Signals was invited for a special visit to see the works underway first hand a
156. Government “calls time” on Avanti West Coast
Government “calls time” on Avanti West Coast performance and announces nationalisation date…The Prime Minister makes his own comments about troubled South Western Railway…Meanwhile, East Midlands Railway seems to be moving in the right direction** Book for the Beer & Music Festival at the KWVR **In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:27) Avanti West Coast nationalisation date(15:15) Andy Burnham on
155. Chiltern Railways returns to public ownership… and it raises some questions
Chiltern Railways returns to public ownership – and itraises some questions…ScotRail finally admits failures in its ticketing app launchAnd Richard reports from the world’s largest rail industryexhibition – InnoTrans!In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:31) Chiltern Railways joins GBR(06:36) ScotRail’s ticketing app(15:09) Railway News round-up(15:12) East Midlands Railway fleet refurbishment(15:47) B
Secret steam locomotives revealed – Inside Collection X with Tim Dunn!
In the 1960s and 70s, the legendary Peter Rampton amassed a remarkable collection of steam locomotives and artefacts from around the world. He brought them back to his farm in Surrey, had a few open days in the 1970s and then pretty much locked the doors to the barns to keep the secrets within safe and hidden from view. Now, in the barn find of the century for narrow gauge railway enthusiasts, Col
154. TransPennine Express’s new train order is great news! But we have questions…
TransPennine Express orders new rolling stock – and it’s excellent news for Derby! But we have plenty of questionsAvanti West Coast cuts services AGAIN; andTickets will soon be automatically valid on other services when yours is cancelled. But is there a catch?**LINK TO GREEN SIGNALS LISTENER SURVEY: https://tally.so/r/lbGWQpIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(01:10) TPE’s rolling stock order(17:09) Ava
£1bn NEW trains! Britain's first mainline battery electric trains ordered by TransPennine Express
Massive news for Derby, Alstom and TransPennine Express withthe announcement that TransPennine Express (TPE) have placed an order with Alstom for 29 x 5 car battery electric multiple units using the Alstom Adessia platform.The deal is to be financed by Rock Rail and the new trains will enter service from 2032 with full deployment by December 2034 The order is a major boost for the Alstom Derby Lit
153. More diversions! GWR’s plan to keep customers on trains over Christmas
More diversions! We look at GWR’s plan to keep customers ontrains over Christmas.But GWR are also struggling with unreliable Class 175s…And Lumo re-fuels a train mid-service… yes, really.**LINK TO GREEN SIGNALS LISTENER SURVEY: https://tally.so/r/lbGWQpIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:27) GWR diversions plan(14:55) GWR Class 175 problems(27:28) RMT update(29:39) Chancellor on cost of rail projects
Inside HS2’s Only Double-Track Tunnel - The Giant Copthall Tunnel!
Away from the politics and the noise, from the debates about costs and benefits, the various teams at HS2 are quietly and diligently getting on with delivering some of the most remarkable engineering achievements this country has ever seen. Today, we have come to visit a section of railway that has more than its fair share of amazing engineering – from the West Ruislip portal of the western sectio
152. East West Rail – Has the RMT gone too far this time?
RMT ballots for strike action over Driver Only Operation onEast West RailHas Andy Burnham agreed a pay deal with ASLEF for AvantiWest Coast drivers?And digital signalling goes live between Welwyn Garden Cityand HitchinIn this episode:(00:35) RMT ballots for strike action(15:16) Pay deal for Avanti drivers(23:56) Railway News round-up(24:08) New Elizabeth Line trains enter service(24:57) ScotRail a
In The Cab - Digital Signalling Goes Live on the East Coast Main Line
A major milestone was reached on 31st August 2026 when the Welwyn to Hitchin Migration area of the East Coast Main Line went live for ETCS 2 operation. Whilst the system is still in what is called overlay mode, it nonetheless represents a major success for the project.Green Signals recently had the chance to spend time with members of the project team as well as the drivers using the system in ser
Commuting by Heritage Train - Riding the FIRST Bewdley Express!
Bewdley station on the Severn Valley Railway last saw a regular commuter service to Birmingham in 1970. Now, 56 years later, and thanks to a partnership between the Severn Valley Railway, the West Midlands Rail Executive and West Midlands Railway it is once again possible to catch a commuter service from Bewdley - and on a heritage train. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals
151. Is it time to get tough on CrossCountry after power outage causes widespread cancellations?
Is it time to get tough on CrossCountry, following a poweroutage that resulted in cancellation of most of its services?We ask why a £3m contract has been awarded for a GBR brandstrategy when the GBR brand has already been launched.And has West Coast Railways been denied an exemption to runMk 1s without CDL - AGAIN?In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:39) CrossCountry power outage(14:35) £3m GBR brandi
150. Is Britain’s railway prepared (and funded) to cope with climate change?
RAIB releases its initial report into the Lewes derailment Virgin Trains take a step closer to competing with Eurostar; and We take a look at the amazing HS2 station at Old Oak Common In this episode (00:00) Intro (01:04) The Lewes derailment and the challenges facing Network Rail (28:37) Virgin Trains secures track access to HS1 (35:19) DB Cargo UK up for sale (36:39) Disruption on LNER and East
We go behind the scenes at HS2’s new Old Oak Common Mega Station!
In West London, London’s new mega station is taking shape. At Old Oak Common, a brand new 14 platform super hub railway station is rising from the ground and when complete, it will transform train travel. The 6 platforms for the semi underground HS2 station are nowbuilt, and Green Signals has been invited along to take an exclusive look.And it’s fair to say, it’s breathtaking!
Mega update on Channel Tunnel rail plans – with Jon Worth, EU Rail writer and campaigner
Finally, after years of inaction, it does finally look like there’s change coming to Channel Tunnel rail services between London, Paris and potentially many more destinations besides. There are brand new operators on the cards such as Virgin Trains, Gemini and Trenitalia. There’s the possibility of new trains as well as new services. There could be new capacity at St Pancras International, new dep
149. Manchester power outage – is the railway vulnerable?
24 hours of north west rail chaos following a power cut. Do mega signalling centres put too many eggs in too few baskets?East Midlands Railway – is there light at the end of the tunnel?And the latest proposal on Channel Tunnel services is seriously left field!In this episode:(00:00) Intro (00:27) Manchester Power Cut(12:56) East Midlands Railway timetable restoration(19:05) Channel Tunnel update –
Charing Cross: Exclusive access to the track during a major rail renewal project
It is one thing carrying out track renewals on the railway when it is being done away from urban centres. But when it is in the centre of the capital city on a section of railway that is amongst the busiest in the world, it is quite another. But that is exactly what Network Rail and South Eastern are doing in a major, 22 day blockade to replace track and rebuild platforms between Waterloo East and
148. ScotRail’s Ticket App Fiasco is sending a powerful warning to GBR
ScotRail’s ticket app fiasco which is sending a powerfulwarning to GBRWest Coast Railways is handed an Improvement Notice by theORR over droplight windowsAnd ASLEF threatens industrial action over toiletsIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:28) ScotRail’s ticket app fiasco(22:32) Okehampton Interchange opens(33:08) U-Cross roll out update(40:33) Railway News round-up(40:36) RMT strikes over EMR Aurora
Deltic D9015 Tulyar returns after 30 years. With cab ride!
It’s almost 30 years since Deltic No D9015 Tulyar turned a wheel in passenger service. But thanks to the remarkable efforts of the Deltic Preservation Society, Tulyar made a triumphant return to traffic on 31st July 2026 at the Great Central Railway.We were invited to go and see the locomotive put through its paces and we got the chance of a much coveted cab ride in D9015 from Loughborough to Leic
147. East Midlands Railway boss ‘steps down’ amid growing crisis – What now?
The boss of troubled East Midlands Railway leaves withimmediate effect – so what happens now? Will third-party ticket retailers face unfair competitionwhen GBR launches its own retail platform?And we speak to AllRail who represent independent railoperators as to why they think open access strengthens the railway, despiteclaims they abstract revenue.In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:39) EMR boss ste
The North Norfolk Railway: A steam train to the seaside
The North Norfolk Railway is one of Britain’s most delightful heritage railways. Beautifully preserved in an Edwardian time capsule, a visit to the North Norfolk Railway evokes memories of a long-gone Britain – of long, lazy summer days and holidays by the beach.Stef and Richard recently went to visit the railway and have a look behind the scenes at what it takes to keep this marvellous railway in
146. East Midlands Railway crisis – Unreliable trains trigger emergency timetable
East Midlands Railway is in crisis. Unreliable trains trigger a short-notice emergency timetable.Andy Burnham becomes PM – what does it mean for rail and devolution?And RAIB releases its initial findings into the fatal level crossing collision at Hoghton in Lancashire.In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:29) EMR emergency timetable(21:35) Andy Burnham and devolution(34:04) Manchester buses follow-up(3
Restoring the missing rail link in the Rother Valley
The Rother Valley Railway is a remarkable project to restore a missing 3.5 mile link to reconnect the Kent & East Sussex Railway with the London – Hastings main line at Robertsbridge. When it’s complete, this 14 mile long railway will take visitors through some of England’s most beautiful countryside past Bodiam Castle to Tenterden. The Rother Valley Railway recently passed a major milestone w
145. Will Andy Burnham splash the cash on rail?
Andy Burnham will be our next Prime Minister. But is theremoney for his rail promises?The Railways Bill starts its passage through the Lords – andRichard is underwhelmed!And Eurostar is said to have changed its new train order tobe able to cope with 55oC Heatwaves in future!In this episode:(00:00) Intro(03:00) Andy Burnham’s rail promises(09:55) Demystifying Fiscal Rules(30:00) The Railways Bill 2
I went behind the scenes on a luxury steam train holiday to the Alps!
When I was offered the opportunity to go behind the scenes on a Belle Trains luxury steam train holiday headed to the Alps, I jumped at the chance. Getting up close and personal with some huge steam locomotives, experiencing an abundance of delicious food, being looked after by some of the friendliest and most efficient staff I’ve ever come across… and the views. Well, breathtaking doesn’t really
144. Failure to electrify Britain’s railway is costing the UK £Billions!
Failure to electrify Britain’s railway is costing the UKbillions of poundsHow Network Rail is coping with the heat – we speak to NR’sDeputy CEO Jake KellyAnd an HS2 tunnel extension in Bromford is judged not tohave had the correct planning permission…** Book for the Green Signals Jolly on July 23rd hereIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:34) Electrification(25:34) HS2’s Bromford Tunnel(29:58) Railway
143. Why does heat wreak havoc with the railway? And what can we do about it?
Why does heat wreak havoc with the railway? And what can wedo about it?A so-called ‘near miss between two trains at Clay Cross turns out to be nothing of the sort…And the National Audit Office makes someremarkable recommendations on HS2** Book for the Green Signals Jolly on July 23rd here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/green-signals-jolly-to-the-keighley-worth-valley-railway-tickets-1986536021717?a
142. Bedford Train Crash Latest – What we know… And what we don’t.
Bedford train crash latest – What do we know? And, crucially, what don’t we know yet?RAIB releases its report into October 2024’s Talerddig rail accident – and there are a few surprises …And the ORR rejects Alliance Rail again over its Marchwood open access application.**Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to TicketyBoo website: https://myticketyb
Reunifying the Great Central - Europe’s only main line double track heritage railway
The Great Central Railway is unique. It is the only main line double track heritage railway in Europe. And it’s brilliant!However, they are not standing still. They have an ambitious and exciting plan to reunify the two surviving sections of the Great Central Railway to create an 18 mile, living museum of transport, anchored by that unique double track section where it is possible to see steam tra
We ride a Class 70 to Boulby - Rare track, freight only, semaphore signals. Wow!
The dramatic freight only railway line from Saltburn to Boulby potash mine on the Cleveland coast is a truly spectacular railway. Once forming much of the Saltburn to Whitby line, the 12 mile branch to Boulby is a railway delight with steep gradients, semaphore signals, closed stations, jointed track, token block signalling, even a tunnel on the section of the line that is privately owned and of c
141. Is the Government’s Rail Reform failing? And how do we fix it?
Is the Government’s Rail Reform failing? And how do we fixit?Andy Burnham says he’ll bring back HS2 to Manchester if he’ssuccessful at becoming PMAnd we catch up with RealTimeTrains founder TomCairns about the new RTT app**Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to TicketyBoo website: https://myticketyboo.com/ Use code GREENSIGNALS5 at checkout toget £5
Real people doing real engineering - at Wabtec UK
Two thirds of all Great British Railways spend will be with the railway supply chain. It’s a dynamic environment that is constantly adapting, constantly changing and constantly investing. One of the businesses at the heart of that supply chain is Wabtec and at the moment, they are changing more than most with a £30 million investment to create a new super site, a jewel in the crown of the UK rail
140. Government to cut Transport spend in favour of Defence?
Government plans to cut transport spend to fund defence –what could it mean for railways?Kernow Connect – Is the Okehampton to Launceston and Bodminnew railway proposal the most delusional scheme of the year?And DfT explains how GBR will be held to account – but isthe most important question still unanswered?**Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to Tick
139. Why did the Government block train operators from buying cheaper fuel?!
Why did the Government block train operators from buying cheaper fuel?!Can HS2 trains be tested on HS1, or not?And… the Jacobite steam train returns! But NOT with Mark 1 carriages.**Link to download the TicketyBoo appLink to TicketyBoo websiteUse code GREENSIGNALS5 at checkout to get £5 off your first booking**In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:27) Government blocked fuel hedging?(09:28) Can HS2 tra
Building Freight Train wagons in the UK at W H Davis
Formed in 1908, WH Davis Ltd. has been based at Langwith Junction near Shirebrook its entire history and is today recognised as the UK’s last remaining independent rail wagon manufacturer.I’ve come to have look around this extraordinary place which remains a standard bearer of world class precision engineering and heavy duty manufacturing supporting the rail sector both home and abroad.Membership:
138. HS2 planned to use tech that “hasn’t been invented yet”… Really?!
HS2 planned to use a technology that “hasn’t been inventedyet”… Really?GBR’s livery begins rolling out on trains, but what happens next?And now Thameslink is following Avanti West Coast’s exampleand cancelling some summer services. What is going on?** Find out more about the Emerald Isle Belle here: https://www.belletrains.co.uk/emerald-belle-2027or by calling 01284 330123In this episode:(00:00) I
Open Access to Marchwood: “Shoddy, Unevidenced and Factually Incorrect” – Yeowart slams ORR
Over 25 years since the UK’s first open access passenger rail service, and the subject still divides opinion. Those for point to services to communities that had been forgotten, competition driving down prices as well as stimulating. Those against point to revenue abstraction not outweighed by the growth and to adding serious performance challenges on an already congested network. One person who h
Running an integrated railway - South Western Railway MD Lawrence Bowman interview
On the morning of Sunday 25 May, the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander MP boarded the first South Western Railway service to depart London Waterloo. The company’s new Managing Director, Lawrence Bowman, has been steadily working hard since to create an integrated SWR and Network Rail team, responsible for both train operations and infrastructure. As Great British Railways continues
Artificial Intelligence is coming to the railway - But what does it mean?
Artificial Intelligence is no longer science fiction. It’s increasingly science fact. And it’s coming to the railway whether we like it or not. GBRX has created the AI Industry Action Plan to show how Britain’s railway will move from isolated AI pilots to safe, scalable, system-wide adoption. Green Signals went along to the glitzy launch event for the AI Industry Action Plan at the Science Museum,
137. HS2’s ‘Original Sins’. Up to £102bn cost. Slower speeds. Years late. What went wrong?
HS2’s ‘Original Sins’. Up to £102bn cost. Slower speeds.Years late. What went wrong?Avanti West Coast prepares to cut 38 daily weekday servicesfor six weeks.Bristol to Oxford direct services are restored!And Artificial Intelligence is coming to the railway fasterthan ever…**Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to TicketyBoo website: https://myticketyboo.
Fighting the Fight against flooding on Devon and Cornwall’s railways
There is considerable debate about the causes of, and future predictions for, climate change. But what is not in any doubt is that our weather has become more unpredictable and extreme. The South West of England has always suffered more than most and the railway has always been at the forefront of meeting the challenge. In 2014, a serious breach of the sea wall at Dawlish caused the railway to be
136. Great Western Railway nationalisation date confirmed
Great Western Railway will be nationalised in December… and that much-loved historic green livery will soon disappear HS2’s big ‘reset’ is delayed AGAIN. Or is it? GB Railfreight’s Class 99s take a big leap towards entering serviceAnd… an LNER overspeed incident might have been caused by driver distraction.**Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to Ticket
135. Blackpool Trams - “This isn’t the end for heritage trams” says Blackpool Transport
It’s not the end of heritage trams in Blackpool! We ask Blackpool Transport what its plans are now that Tramtown has closed…Ending ‘Boom and Bust’ on the railway – the Government responds to Transport Select Committee recommendations once again... but will Richard be as supportive this time?And we celebrate 150 years of the Settle & Carlisle Railway.** Find out more about the Emerald Isle Bell
Sacked from DfT Operator! The exclusive full interview with Chris Gibb
Chris Gibb is one of the country’s most respected and experienced railway operators. His storied career includes a period as Chief operating Officer of Virgin Trains. Few people know how to get the most out of operating the West Coast Main Line as much as Chris Gibb. He’s spent time running Scotrail and sitting on the Board of Network Rail. Latterly he’s been the Senior NED on the Board of DFTO. H
The UK's Most Beautiful Railway? Settle & Carlisle Railway Celebrates 150 Years
It is the railway line that survived against all the odds. It became a high profile cause celebre for campaigners and a political football for railway administrators over a long drawn out period beginning in the 1960s with the publication of Richard Beeching’s infamous report and ending in the late 1980s with a remarkable reprieve. On 1st May 2026, this glorious railway celebrated its 150th annive
134. Exclusive - Sacked from DfTO Chris Gibb interview
The sacking of an experienced railwayman from DfT Operator…Chris Gibb gives Green Signals an exclusive interviewBreaking news that Blackpool’s Tramtown has been closed ‘permanently’Shock, horror! Richard agrees with the Government on its response to Railways Bill recommendations from the Transport Select CommitteeAnd… Bransty Tunnel on the Cumbrian Coast Line. Why have repairs still not started ni
Inside a Railway Research Lab! We go behind the scenes at the University of Southampton
Britain has a proud history of advanced railway research. It was British Rail who conceived the hugely successful High Speed Train. The BR Research Centre then came up with the brilliant tilting train design of the Advanced Passenger Train until it was scrapped, only for it to reappear years later, when it was sold back to us by a French Italian consortium in the form of the Pendolino. The Railway
Reflections of a Rail Regulator - John Larkinson, outgoing CEO of the Office of Rail and Road
Few railway organisations have witnessed as much change in their role and structure over the past 30 years as the Office of Rail and Road (ORR). This, despite being a constant feature of the landscape. And yet the next few years will bring about the biggest changes so far in their role.John Larkinson has been CEO for over 7 years, the culmination of a long and distinguished career in the railway i
133. 1 Trespasser. 426 Trains delayed. 10k+ Passengers stranded - What happened?
A single trespasser on the East Coast Main Line causes 426 trains to be delayed and tens of thousands of passengers to be stranded. So, what happened?Will Leeds ever get its trams? A leaked report raises doubts – and questions – for Chancellor Rachel Reeves and West Yorks Mayor Tracy BrabinAnd a railwayman of nearly 50 years’ experience is fired from DfT Operator for breaching the civil service ‘s
Does he have the biggest job on the railway? Network Rail’s CEO Jeremy Westlake is in the hot seat
Network Rail is pivotal to whether GBR is a success or not. The reality will always be that Network Rail, with its resources, people, assets and role drives pretty much whether the railway performs day to day both now and in the future.Jeremy Westlake is the CEO. In taking over from Andrew Haines he stepped out of the relative shadow of Chief Financial Officer role into the full glare of the top j
132. Jacobite steam train: Has a deal been done? Or not?
Jacobite steam train – Has a deal finally been done to fit Central Door Locking? …Or hasn’t it? Mini Switzerland – is Swiss-style integrated transport coming to the UK? We speak to the man behind the visionAnd Space weather – could the phenomenon that gives us the Northern Lights also disrupt our railway systems?**Link to buy Platform 5’s BR Locomotives & Coaching Stock 2026. Use code GREENSIG
Running the world’s largest integrated transport system – in conversation with Andy Lord
It’s the biggest integrated transport undertaking in the world. So it follows that running it and being accountable for its day-to day operation, is one of the biggest jobs in world transport.For Andy Lord, Commissioner of Transport for London (and Commissioner means Group CEO), it’s clearly a privilege and a job he relishes despite all the challenges it throws up. From the world famous and iconic
131. Integrated Transport Strategy – Wishy-Washy Waffle? Or Sensible, Solid, Strategy?
A new Integrated Transport Strategy is launched, but is it all wishy-washy waffle, or a sensible, solid, strategy?We preview an interview with Transport for London Commissioner Andy LordAnd, we have news of our very own upcoming event in June!**Green Signals KWVR Jolly booking link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1986536021717aff=oddtdtcreatorIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:41) Integrated Transport
130. The Beeching Report turns 63. Controversial… But was he right?
The Beeching Report turns 63… We ask the controversialquestion: Was Beeching unfairly and unreasonably criticised?We learn more about how the Railways Bill will affectScotland and WalesAnd Richard heads to the West Somerset Railway to celebrateits 50th anniversaryIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:51) Beeching Report turns 63(15:32) Railways Bill devolved nations MOUs(21:28) 1Timetable interview(39:
OxRail 2040. Is rail in Oxfordshire about to be transformed?
Oxfordshire is a one of the UK’s regional powerhouse economies. Furthermore, Rail is big business in Oxfordshire. In 2024/25, the estimated total entries and exits at Oxfordshire stations was some 19.6 million, a 17% increase from the previous year. It’s not quite at pre-pandemic levels but the growth is strong. The OxRail 2040 strategy was widely consulted on during September 2025 and now forms t
129. Are High Speed 2 trains going to be a bit less ‘High Speed’?
Are High Speed 2 trains about to get a little bit less ‘high speed’?Glasgow Central reopens and Network Rail make the most of its partial closure to catch up on maintenanceAnd we speak to Liam Johnston MBE from the Railway Mission about their important work**Link to download the TicketyBoo app:https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to TicketyBoo website:https://myticketyboo.com/ Use code GREE
Transpennine Route Upgrade – is this rail’s best kept secret?
There’s a revolution underway on the railways in the north, and no, it’s not Northern Powerhouse Rail, but rather something that will provide the bedrock to anything that NPR may become. Its name? The Transpennine route between Manchester, Leeds and York. We don’t hear too much about the Transpennine Route Upgrade outside of the Manchester – Leeds – York corridor although that may be because it’s
Northern Powerhouse Rail – is it good value for money?
The National Audit Office or NAO is an independent parliamentary body. It is the independent public spending watchdog. It audits Central Government Departments, agencies and NDPBs. But it also carries out value for money audits into the administration of public policy. One such value for money audit was into the recently re launched Northern Powerhouse Rail project, something that will be increasi
128. Remember Network North? An FOI request reveals more than you might think…
Network North – remember that? A Freedom of Information request reveals more than you might think…We speak to the National Audit Office about its recent report into Northern Powerhouse RailAnd we preview an upcoming special feature on the Transpennine Route UpgradeIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:31) Network North FOI(27:21 )NPR NAO report interview teaser(34:44) TRU video teaser(40:05) Thanks to
HS2’s final TBM starts tunnelling to Euston! And we go onboard….
HS2 has started excavation of the final tunnel bore on the 140-mile railway between central London and the West Midlands – the down tunnel from Old Oak Common station in west London towards Euston – HS2’s terminus. The tunnel boring machine (TBM) is named Karen after Karen Harrison, one of the first female train drivers in the UK, who drove out of Old Oak Common depot.Best of all, Green Signals wa
Holding Government to account - In conversation with Ruth Cadbury MP
Select Committees work in both Houses of Parliament. They scrutinise and report on a wide range of activities from the work of Government departments to economics affairs. They run inquiries on specific topics, the outcomes of which are public and many require a response from the government. They are to be taken seriously by all those who are asked to give evidence.The Transport Committee is nomin
127. Is the £2bn HS2 train contract about to be rewritten?
Is the £2bn contract for 54 HS2 trains about to be rewritten?And is it true that HS2 is going to ‘end in a field’, as was reported last week?Plus, we preview some very exciting upcoming videos, including an interview with Chair of the Transport Select Committee RuthCadbury MP, and a Class 66 cab ride on East West Rail.**Link to download the TicketyBoo app:https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Lin
126. New Tube trains for Piccadilly Line are delayed AGAIN!
New Piccadilly Line trains are delayed AGAINNetwork Rail takes control of the Barking Eurohub rail freight terminalAnd we’re shocked to discover that Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak fares are to become non-refundable on the day of travel from April 1st.*BELLE TRAINS* Visit https://www.belletrains.co.uk/ or call 01284 330123 to book your luxury steam holiday on the Alpine BelleIn this episode:
The Railways Bill – Will it work?
The Railways Bill is the most important piece of railway legislation since the 1993 Railways Act that brought about the era of privatisation. The current Railways Bill (and Act) will bring about an era of re-nationalisation. Except it’s more complex than that. Great British Railways will be a massive organisation with substantial reach but it will still have to exist in a world of devolution, thir
125. £14 billion funding commitment for Welsh Railways! Except it isn’t
Seven new stations for Wales in a £14bn “funding promise” bythe UK Government! Except that it isn’t.Is the Jacobite steam train about to be saved by West CoastRailways finally fitting central door locking?And we speak to the Chair of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway about the challenges of replacing a 180-year-old bridge, one that is vital for the railway’s continued existence.**BELLE TRAINS**Vis
124. Government vs Great British Railways – Could there be trouble ahead?
Transport Select Committee publishes their report into the Railways Bill and warn of future tensions between the Government GBR unless addressed.Richard is accused on his own ‘ideological bias’ over last week’s We Own It report…And is the Jacobite steam train under threat again as wehead into the 2026 season?**BELLE TRAINS**Visit https://www.belletrains.co.uk/ or call 01284 330123 to book your lux
Private Finance in Rail – Is it going to finally happen?
Private finance and the rail sector are often talked about but frequently misunderstood. And where it is well established in sectors such as rolling stock leasing, it can be divisive with strong and opposing views. Yet the attitude of private investors and in particular their appetite to invest in UK infrastructure seems especially strong at the moment. That’s the view of leading consultancy Atkli
New Look CrossCountry Voyager: We attend the glitzy launch event!
The Voyager and Super Voyager trains are one of the least loved on Britain’s railway. But why is that? Operationally and mechanically, they are robust, reliable and capable. And they’re super quick too! Reasons for their unloved status may include their interiors and their underfloor engines. Opinions will always differ on such things. Where opinions differ far less is that their interiors are ta
123. New poll calls for fares cuts & new services… but is that the whole story?
A recent poll says 7 in 10 Brits want the government to use savings made from nationalising the railways to cut rail fares and open new services. It has us raising our eyebrows…The Tarka Line is still shut and a petition has been signed by 3,000 people is calling for improvements…And we discuss whether you’d need to be mad to take on the role of GBR’s first chair?In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:3
Class 37 test running on HVO! With cab ride!
The Class 37 is one of the most successful British locomotive designs of all time. 309 locomotives were delivered between 1960 and 1965 and despite even the youngest now being over 60 years old, close to 100 examples still survive to this day, around two thirds of which still run on the mainline.Europhoenix Rail is one such operator of Class 37s. The spot hire business has 11 Class 37s including c
122. Blackpool Trams: Are we about to see the end of heritage trams in service?
Blackpool Trams – Are we about to see the end of the heritage trams in service?A Fatal Accident Inquiry has launched in Scotland over the tragic accident at Carmont in 2020.And Standedge Tunnel repairs are completed after a fire caused significant damage.In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:35) Blackpool Trams(26:20) Carmont Fatal Accident Investigation(31:53) Standedge Tunnel fire(42:23) LNER Peterbo
Exclusive interview with Mark Phillips, CEO, Rail Safety and Standards Board RSSB
“The evidence is that Driver Only / Driver Controlled operation [DOO / DCO] is safer than being dispatched by a conductor or even a platform member of staff.” That’s the view of Mark Phillips, the highly experienced Chief Executive of the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB). The RSSB was established in 2003, in the aftermath of the Ladbroke Grove rail crash. It is a membership organisation that
UK’s first battery only train enters service. We ride it!
On Saturday 31st January 2025, GWR (Great Western Railway) introduced the UK’s first battery-only powered train into passenger service.Naturally, Green Signals was on board to experience the first day of operation and we had a chance to not only experience the train but also speak to Julian Fletcher, Technology Development Manager, Battery Train Project, GWR about how it’s going, the battery techn
Curzon 2: The Highest Viaduct on HS2!
Curzon 2 (dubbed the Bellingham bridge by the HS2 team) isgoing to be the highest viaduct on HS2 when it’s complete. An enormous 25-metre-high truss will transform Birmingham’s skyline – you can already see it looming over the surrounding warehouses and industrial units if you take the train into Birmingham.Unlike most of HS2’s other viaducts, which sit low in thelandscape, this one is the complet
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