ORR launches market study into rail signalling systems

Today the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has opened a market study into the supply of rail signalling systems to ensure the signalling supply chain is fair and competitive.

Signalling accounted for more than £4 billion of Network Rail’s spend over the five-year period between 2014 and 2019. This spend is forecast to significantly increase, as digital technology is rolled out across the network.

This study builds on previous work into signalling, notably ORR’s engagement with the European Commission about the proposed merger of Siemens/Alstom.

Tom Cole, Head of Competition at the Office of Rail and Road, said:

“Signalling systems are an essential part of the railway. They keep passengers safe by ensuring trains do not come into conflict with each other and play a key role in freeing up capacity on the network. The ability for Network Rail to drive value for money when buying high-quality signalling systems is vital to its delivery of a reliable and efficient railway. We consider now is the right time to open this market study as industry personnel and evidence is now likely to be available.”

Market Study Notice [Download]

Statement of Scope – Signalling Market Study [Download]

Click here, to find out more.