New signalling era begins as £61m Carlisle upgrade boosts West Coast Main Line reliability

Credit: Network Rail

Rail journeys on the West Coast Main Line are now more reliable following the completion of a major signalling upgrade in Carlisle, marking a new era for train traffic control on this critical route.

Network Rail has invested £61 million in the Kingmoor resignalling project, replacing outdated 1960s technology with modern, digital systems designed to improve reliability for both passenger and freight services. The project began in April 2025 and was delivered by principal contractor Siemens Mobility.

The upgrade includes 26 new lightweight LED signal heads, advanced detection systems to monitor train movements, upgraded track and points, overhauled signalling power supplies, and new control panels for signallers in Carlisle signal box. Digital operating systems have also been installed in the signal box relay room, alongside upgraded CCTV at Floriston level crossing.

All systems went live on Wednesday 7 January following a seven day closure of the line between Carlisle and Lockerbie to allow for final installation, testing and commissioning. Passengers affected by the New Year disruption have been thanked for their patience while the essential work was completed.

Christian Irwin OBE, Network Rail Capital Delivery director for the North West and Central region, said: “Today is the start of a new era for the way we signal freight and passenger trains through Carlisle and north into Scotland. This major investment, using the latest technology, benefits both passengers and freight, getting people and goods to where they need to be more smoothly and reliably on this crucial section of railway.

“We know this has brought disruption for passengers at the start of 2026, and we’d like to thank you for bearing with us while we made these essential upgrades, which will improve journeys for years to come.”

Matt Kent, director of operations and manufacturing, rail infrastructure at Siemens Mobility UK and Ireland, said: “We are proud to have partnered with Network Rail to successfully deliver the Kingmoor resignalling project, a key milestone in our mission to transform rail travel and transport on the West Coast Main Line.

“This extensive signalling upgrade includes state of the art digital trackside equipment, fully compatible with European Train Control System standards to enable future integration. These enhancements will help future proof the line, delivering enhanced reliability and efficiency for both passengers and freight.”

The Carlisle scheme was part of a wider programme of festive upgrades across the West Coast Main Line, including a £26 million junction renewal in Buckinghamshire, signalling improvements at Preston station, platform works at Milton Keynes and Wolverton, a £5.4 million bridge strengthening project in Stafford, and track upgrades at Roade in Northamptonshire.

Work is continuing on the demolition and rebuilding of a 130 metre railway bridge over the M6 near Penrith. The line remains closed between Oxenholme and Carlisle until Wednesday 15 January, with rail replacement buses in operation and Avanti West Coast running a diversionary service via the Settle to Carlisle line.

Chris Liptrot, Avanti West Coast operations director, said: “We’d like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while Network Rail carried out these improvements, which will help make journeys more reliable.”

The Christmas and New Year programme represents nearly £200 million of investment on the West Coast Main Line, forming part of a wider £400 million programme planned over the next four years.