Partnership to Enhance SSI Signalling Systems in the UK
Park Signalling, part of Unipart Group, has been awarded a prestigious £3m contract by Network Rail to develop a cutting-edge Design Workstation to support Solid State Interlocking (SSI) signalling systems in the UK. The workstation will provide critical hardware and software infrastructure for rail engineers, enabling them to test, configure, and make changes to SSI interlockings using a next-generation technology platform.
Modernizing SSI Signalling Systems
The new Design Workstation will replace outdated and unsupported technology that has been in use for several years. By developing this workstation, Park Signalling aims to provide a robust solution for configuring and managing SSI systems, which require specialist knowledge of railway signalling principles and interlocking logic. This is a vital step toward modernising the infrastructure that underpins the UK’s rail network.
Marc Winterton, Managing Director of Park Signalling, expressed enthusiasm about the long-term partnership with Network Rail, emphasising the importance of the project for enhancing the efficiency and safety of the UK’s railways. “We are delighted to continue our work with Network Rail,” said Winterton. “The new Design Workstation will play a pivotal role in improving the management and configuration of SSI signalling systems. It will empower rail engineers to create and modify interlocking logic, configure trackside equipment, and perform testing and simulations safely and efficiently.”
Delivering Innovation and Expertise
The Design Workstation will allow engineers to simulate real-world conditions in a controlled environment, ultimately helping to streamline maintenance processes and ensure minimal downtime for the rail network. As part of the contract, Park Signalling will provide ongoing technical support to ensure the system operates at optimal efficiency throughout its lifespan.
The workstation is designed with ease of use in mind, offering an intuitive interface that simplifies complex tasks while maintaining the high standards of safety and reliability that Network Rail requires. This technological advancement represents a leap forward for the industry, combining state-of-the-art software and hardware to create a comprehensive solution for railway signalling professionals.
Driving Future Innovation
Dr. David McGorman, Managing Director of Unipart Technologies Group, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration between Park Signalling and Network Rail. “Unipart has built a legacy of delivering innovative technology solutions to the global rail industry,” said Dr. McGorman. “This partnership further demonstrates our ability to address critical project requirements and deliver tangible results. By merging Park Signalling’s technical expertise with Unipart’s dedication to performance enhancement, we are strategically placed to drive innovation within the rail sector.
The project is expected to be completed by September 2026, marking a significant milestone in Park Signalling’s ongoing mission to support the future of the UK’s rail infrastructure.
Conclusion
The £3m contract with Network Rail represents a major step forward for Park Signalling, underlining the company’s leading role in developing advanced technological solutions for the rail industry. By modernising the way SSI signalling systems are managed, Park Signalling is helping to create a safer, more efficient rail network for the UK, with substantial benefits for both engineers and passengers alike.
