£32m signalling upgrade delivers reliability boost east of Edinburgh

A sweeping modernisation of railway signalling east of Edinburgh has been completed, with Network Rail finishing a major upgrade between Portobello and Edinburgh Waverley aimed at boosting reliability on one of Scotland’s most heavily used routes.

The work focused on renewing the signalling systems that control train movements, ensuring drivers receive clear instructions on when to proceed and when to stop. These systems combine trackside signals, monitoring equipment and technology within control centres to keep trains safely spaced and services running smoothly.

Key elements of the project were delivered over Christmas Day and Boxing Day, when engineers commissioned new signalling equipment at Portobello Junction. The junction, located just outside Edinburgh Waverley, is among the most complex sections of infrastructure on the route. Long-serving assets that had been in use for more than four decades were removed and replaced, reducing the likelihood of failures and improving overall performance.

The signalling upgrade marks the completion of a £32 million investment programme carried out by Network Rail over the past three years. Alongside the new equipment on the main line, the scheme also included renewed controls at Craigentinny depot, enhancing the flow of trains in and out of one of the busiest rail depots in eastern Scotland.

Scheduling the commissioning work over the Christmas period allowed the most disruptive elements to be carried out while passenger numbers were at their lowest. With the railway closed on Christmas Day and quieter services on Boxing Day, engineers from Network Rail and Siemens were able to complete the complex work safely while limiting the impact on travellers.

Dan Holder, Head of Engineering and Asset Management for Network Rail Scotland, said:

“The Signalling system is our ‘hidden’ asset and is critical to how we run the railway. It keeps trains moving safely and efficiently, so maintaining and upgrading these systems is one of our most important responsibilities. We’re constantly reviewing our infrastructure to identify where improvements will make the biggest difference for passengers. In this case, the equipment had reached the end of its life, so it was vital to replace it and take the opportunity to upgrade supporting infrastructure at the same time. These improvements will reduce the risk of faults and help deliver more reliable journeys across the route. It’s a significant investment in the performance of the railway and in the experience of the people who rely on it.”

Image: Network Rail