For a national rail infrastructure owner and operator, we provided analytical support to ascertain the various impacts of investment in rail infrastructure on train operations (e.g., route capability, route capacity, and journey time). Our primary tasks included calibrating a sketch-level train-performance model using field-collected data and limited outputs from a more expensive engineering model; interpreting prevailing signaling rules and achieving an understanding of existing hardware to ascertain maximum practical and theoretical line capacity; conceptual design of alternatives for infrastructure alterations to relieve identified bottlenecks; and cash flow analyses to ensure that the proposed enhancement schemes fit within the available budget. About half of the ideas we identified resulted in investment, although not always in the form initially envisaged. The strategic route investment planning process continues on a cyclical five-year basis.
Related Publications/Presentations:
Network Management Statement (incorporating Route Strategy for Scotland Zone)
