Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Green Signals
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| We visit a massive German Train Factory – Alstom’s Hennigsdorf facility near Berlin | 28 Oct 2026 | 00:15:14 | |
On a recent trip to Berlin to attend the InnoTrans 2026 railway trade show, we had the opportunity to tour Alstom’s massive Hennigsdorf facility to the north west of Berlin. Whilst there, we saw the Avelia Stream Nordic EMU and new S Bahn stock for Hamburg and Munich, with the Munich stock being equipped for remote operation. We travelled on it whilst it was being driven from InnoTrans over 20km away! And to travel to and from the factory, we had our very own Coradia Continental Battery Electric Multiple Unit. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Supporters: Platinum Supporter - Siemens Mobility Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Siemens Mobility – The company building London’s new Tube Trains! [Sponsored Content] | 27 Oct 2026 | 00:27:32 | |
Siemens Mobility is one of the world’s leading providers of rail systems bringing together rolling stock, rail infrastructure, rail services, and software solutions. In the UK, 3 manufacturing facilities and over 30 sites employ more than 5,500 people who amongst other things design, deliver and maintain digital signalling and electrification systems for the East Coast Main Line and TransPennine routes, digital signalling and information systems for the Elizabeth line, digital main line trains for Thameslink and brand new tube trains for London’s Piccadilly line. Siemens Mobility UK & Ireland is led by Joint CEOs Aglaja Schneider and Rob Morris. I met up with them at Innotrans 2026 in Berlin, on board one of the stars of the show, a 2024 Piccadilly Line Tube Train to find out more about their current projects, their views on the state of the rail sector and most importantly perhaps, the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead as Britain’s railway undergoes its biggest change in a generation. This is sponsored content. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Supporters: Platinum Supporter - Siemens Mobility Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 159. GBR’s New HQ in Derby… and New Chairman are announced | 22 Oct 2026 | 01:02:27 | |
Sir John Kingman is the new Chair of GBR GBR’s new HQ in Derby is announced. Are things finallyhappening? And we hear from Dr Julia Buckley, MP for Shrewsbury aboutwhat she thinks of the ORR’s decision to reject an open access application **Enter the Traingift giveaway to be in with a chance ofwinning one of two £50 Traingift vouchers: https://www.traingift.com/en/greensignals/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=referral In this episode: (00:00) Intro (01:30) Sir John Kingman is new GBR Chair (09:30) GBR’s New HQ (13:04) Dr Julia Buckley interview (35:06) Railway News round-up (35:10) Alstom agreement for Class 720s (35:44) East Midlands Railways told to improve (38:51) Transport & Environment international servicespoll (40:08) CAF Class 197s on the Cambrian (41:04) Railway Mission Chaplain dies (42:01) SWR catering survey (43:57) ScotRail Adopt a Station (44:56) Newport bridge bash (47:00) Green Signals news (51:12) Heritage News round-up (51:16) Bala £850k grant (52:41) West Somerset Railway chairman dies (53:56) The Quiz (01:00:35) Steam train delights young footballers Credits: Thumbnail image - Department for Transport Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Supporters: Platinum Supporter - Siemens Mobility Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 158. Is Open Access finished? ORR rejects ALL applications for new West Coast Main Line services | 15 Oct 2026 | 01:02:34 | |
Is Open Access finished? We ask the question as ORR rejects ALL applications for new West Coast Main Line services Is London-style ticketing the answer everywhere, or has technology moved on? And Richard divides opinion on rolling stock financing. Again. In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:35) Is Open Access finished? (14:56) Is London-style ticketing the answer everywhere? (31:36) Rolling stock financing (40:19) Railway News round-up (40:22) Virgin new trains image (42:31) CrossCountry extra Voyagers (43:22) Class 350/2s to be refurbished for Northern (44:18) Retail Code of Practice for ticketing (45:16) 400k Cambridge South passengers (46:19) Grand Central withdraws Grimsby plans (47:17) Hereford Transport Hub nears completion (48:21) Thanks to Supporters (49:34) The Railway Ball (51:37) Heritage News round-up (51:40) RAIB report on Bluebell Railway incident (54:18) Severn Valley Raise the Roof update (55:40) Wensleydale Pacer unveiled in Northern Spirit (56:14) The Quiz (59:19) Lumo’s new beer ‘Brewmo’ Credits: Thumbnail image - Lumo Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| “Rock deals in Hope” – Exclusive interview with Rock Group Founder, Mark Swindell | 13 Oct 2026 | 00:50:42 | |
Few issues polarise opinion quite so much in the rail industry (and amongst those who follow what goes on in the industry) as the pros and cons of rolling stock leasing. One of the challenges is to understand exactly what people mean by rolling stock leasing though, because the model has changed so much in the 30 or so years since the practice burst on the scene as part of rail privatisation. One of the relatively new entrants in the market is Rock Rail, founded in 2014 and part of the Rock Group founded and led by Mark Swindell. They see themselves very much as a disruptor – and they’ve been successful too, winning major orders such as SWR’s Class 701 Arterio’s, much of the highly successful Greater Anglia fleet and most recently, the high-profile order from TransPennine Express for their new fleet of Alstom Adessia Stream Battery Electric Multiple Units. Green Signals had the chance to sit down with Mark Swindell recently to ask for his views on GBR’s Rolling Stock and Infrastructure strategy, the speech by Heidi Alexander at the recent Labour Party conference, and his general outlook for the future. It’s fair to say that what he said may well come as a surprise to many……. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Trains to Europe: Are lower fares and more trains coming? | 12 Oct 2026 | 01:02:19 | |
For thirty years, High Speed services between London, Paris and Brussels have been in the hands of single operator – Eurostar. Things may be about to change. On 13th August 2026, the ORR announced the pre-approval of Virgin Train’s Track Access Agreement for High Speed 1. Other operators are keen to join them. Not before time some would say. The rest of Europe is liberalising access to its high-speed network at an accelerating pace and the benefits have been dramatic. In Spain, prices between Madrid and Barcelona have fallen 44%. Between Madrid and Malaga, 52%. Across available routes, 85% of travellers now choose train over plane on corridors where both air and rail are viable. It’s a similar story in Italy and France. Trainline, Europe’s leading independent train and coachticket booking platform recently commissioned a report to look at the benefits of increased competition on high speed rail routes and to put some figures on the outcomes. And on Thursday 16th September 2026, their report entitled “Competition Delivers: What Europe’s high-speed lines reveal about the future of the Channel route” was published. To mark the occasion, a special event was held at London St Pancras station hosted jointly by Trainline and London St. Pancras High Speed. Read the report here. Credits: Thumbnail image - Virgin Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 157. Are trains now to be owned by the Government? New Rolling Stock Strategy suggests they might | 08 Oct 2026 | 01:03:27 | |
Are trains now going to be owned by the Government? The new Rolling Stock and Infrastructure Strategy suggests they might… Discontinuous electrification – a cost-effective answer to wires? Or short-term gain for long term pain? And RAIB releases their interim report into June’s fatal collision at Elstow. In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:34) Rolling Stock and Infrastructure Strategy (19:34) Discontinuous electrification (30:32) Elstow collision interim report (38:17) Railway News round-up (38:20) RMT votes for strike action over EWR (40:08) ASLEF rejects CrossCountry pay offer (42:23) New ORR CEO (43:09) TfW Class 398 Tram Train problems (44:37) Level boarding for Elizabeth Line (45:50) West Yorkshire mass transit taskforce (47:25) Did bedbugs infest Southeastern trains? (50:11) Thanks to supporters (51:14) Heritage News round-up (51:18) Heritage Rail 75th anniversary train (52:40) Gartell Light Railway to close (53:42) Wycrail model railway exhibition returns (54:31) Class 91 guided tours (55:43) King Edward I on the mainline (56:28) The Quiz (01:00:31) Ten Best railway stations pubs Credits: Thumbnail image - Department for Transport Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Vale of Rheidol – The Little Line in the Hills. With Tim Dunn | 06 Oct 2026 | 00:35:40 | |
The Vale of Rheidol railway that runs between Aberystwyth and Devil’s Bridge in Mid Wales is unique. It survived the end of British Rail steam in 1968 and was only sold to a private Trust in 1989. It has been run ever since as a profitable, commercial railway with no volunteers, just paid staff. For those who work here, this is their job. Their livelihood. Yet this is no Disney attraction. This is a proper railway, showcasing the best possible mix of sensitive and accurate heritage and preservation with cutting edge commercial acumen and income generation. I spent 2 days on the railway in August 2026. Together with railway historian, TV personality and now Head of Collection Development at the Vale of Rheidol, Tim Dunn, we explored the famous Collection X of Peter Rampton, the museum and the workshops. I met with Llŷr Ap Iolo, CEO of the railway and travelled the entirety of the line. It may be a little different, but it’s a wonderful railway. Truly one of the Great Little Railways of Wales. Subscribe: If you liked this video, please give it a thumbs up. Better still, hit that subscribe button. It supports the channel and means you'll be notified whenever we publish something new. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Reopening the branch line to Portishead. We get to see the work underway! | 05 Oct 2026 | 00:14:20 | |
The Portishead branch closed to passenger services in 1964. The campaign to reopen it began almost immediately. Over the intervening years, there have many false dawns but finally, after decades of lobbying, the dream is about to become reality. Work is now well underway to reopen the railway and in September 2026, Green Signals was invited for a special visit to see the works underway first hand at Pill station, Portbury Junction and on the disused branch to Portishead itself. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 156. Government “calls time” on Avanti West Coast | 01 Oct 2026 | 01:04:29 | |
Government “calls time” on Avanti West Coast performance and announces nationalisation date… The Prime Minister makes his own comments about troubled South Western Railway… Meanwhile, East Midlands Railway seems to be moving in the right direction ** Book for the Beer & Music Festival at the KWVR ** In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:27) Avanti West Coast nationalisation date (15:15) Andy Burnham on SWR (23:37) East Midlands Railway performance (29:19) Railway News round-up (29:22) Balgray station opens (29:57) London Overground new route consultation (30:52) Oxhey Grange footbridge removal (31:35) Eurostar appeal accepted by ORR (36:05) Alstom BEMU update (47:37) Berlin’s Urbanliners (52:27) Thanks to supporters (53:23) Heritage News round-up (53:26) NRM Central Hall construction update (53:57) Railtours cancelled (56:22) Selside signal box to be moved (57:19) Police firearms training at Weardale Railway (59:32) The Quiz (01:01:30) GTR audio guides for the blind Credits: Thumbnail image - Avanti West Coast Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 155. Chiltern Railways returns to public ownership… and it raises some questions | 24 Sep 2026 | 00:59:54 | |
Chiltern Railways returns to public ownership – and itraises some questions… ScotRail finally admits failures in its ticketing app launch And Richard reports from the world’s largest rail industryexhibition – InnoTrans! In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:31) Chiltern Railways joins GBR (06:36) ScotRail’s ticketing app (15:09) Railway News round-up (15:12) East Midlands Railway fleet refurbishment (15:47) Bransty Tunnel news (17:14) Botley Road reopens (17:56) GCRE funding gap (19:01) Morden Traincare Centre celebration (21:06) InnoTrans highlights (25:15) Access & Use Policy freight interview (50:08) Thanks to supporters (51:38) Heritage Railway News round-up (51:41) Great Central Railway reunification news (52:30) NRM Adopt and Object scheme (53:19) Collection X locomotive re-steamed (54:32) East Lancashire Railway sign language special (55:19) The Quiz (57:03) NR’s sheep reveal hidden orchard Credits: Thumbnail image - Department for Transport Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Secret steam locomotives revealed – Inside Collection X with Tim Dunn! | 22 Sep 2026 | 00:30:00 | |
In the 1960s and 70s, the legendary Peter Rampton amassed a remarkable collection of steam locomotives and artefacts from around the world. He brought them back to his farm in Surrey, had a few open days in the 1970s and then pretty much locked the doors to the barns to keep the secrets within safe and hidden from view. Now, in the barn find of the century for narrow gauge railway enthusiasts, Collection X as it became known is starting to be shown to the public again. Tim Dunn - TV personality, railway historian and now Head of Collection Development at the Vale of Rheidol railway gives us an exclusive and personal tour and shows us some of the very special locomotives that comprise Collection X. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 154. TransPennine Express’s new train order is great news! But we have questions… | 17 Sep 2026 | 01:07:46 | |
TransPennine Express orders new rolling stock – and it’s excellent news for Derby! But we have plenty of questions Avanti West Coast cuts services AGAIN; and Tickets will soon be automatically valid on other services when yours is cancelled. But is there a catch? **LINK TO GREEN SIGNALS LISTENER SURVEY: https://tally.so/r/lbGWQp In this episode: (00:00) Intro (01:10) TPE’s rolling stock order (17:09) Avanti West Coast cut services (22:49) DfT announces ticket changes for cancelled trains (29:26) Railway News round-up (29:28) Cléon train derailment (30:47) New rail freight target (32:24) Funding secured for Cottam Parkway (33:42) First commercial freight to Sizewell C (34:46) RMT suspends EMR strike action (37:22) CAF Civity battery range test (38:36) ScotRail proposal to rename station (39:52) ORR independent review interview (56:59) Thanks to Supporters (58:13) Heritage News round-up (58:17) Nene Valley Railway vandalism (58:52) North Yorkshire Moors Railway Bridge 42 appeal (59:43) First female driver on the East Lancashire Railway (01:01:43) The Quiz (01:04:29) LNER marks National Quiet Day Credits: Thumbnail image - Alstom Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| £1bn NEW trains! Britain's first mainline battery electric trains ordered by TransPennine Express | 11 Sep 2026 | 00:08:56 | |
Massive news for Derby, Alstom and TransPennine Express withthe announcement that TransPennine Express (TPE) have placed an order with Alstom for 29 x 5 car battery electric multiple units using the Alstom Adessia platform. The deal is to be financed by Rock Rail and the new trains will enter service from 2032 with full deployment by December 2034 The order is a major boost for the Alstom Derby Litchurch Lanesite as well as the customers of TransPennine Express. Green Signals looks at the announcement to find out what it means. Credit: Thumbnail image - Alstom Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 153. More diversions! GWR’s plan to keep customers on trains over Christmas | 10 Sep 2026 | 01:06:55 | |
More diversions! We look at GWR’s plan to keep customers ontrains over Christmas. But GWR are also struggling with unreliable Class 175s… And Lumo re-fuels a train mid-service… yes, really. **LINK TO GREEN SIGNALS LISTENER SURVEY: https://tally.so/r/lbGWQp In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:27) GWR diversions plan (14:55) GWR Class 175 problems (27:28) RMT update (29:39) Chancellor on cost of rail projects (38:37) Railway news round-up (38:40) Paddington fire (39:34) CrossCountry cancellations (41:17) Bristol Temple Meads new entrance (42:08) GBR branding on Scottish station (43:47) New Scottish station approved (44:29) Green Signals survey! (46:02) Another heritage commuter service? (50:32) Thanks to supporters (51:46) Lumo re-fuels mid-service (53:13) Lumo partners with Preston North End FC (55:57) Heritage Railway news round-up (55:59) HRA Awards launch (57:04) Class 507 battery conversion (58:36) Merchant Navy restoration (59:29) Saltburn Cliff Railway returns (01:00:40) The Quiz (01:03:29) 581-mile railway walk for theSamaritans Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Inside HS2’s Only Double-Track Tunnel - The Giant Copthall Tunnel! | 07 Sep 2026 | 00:21:07 | |
Away from the politics and the noise, from the debates about costs and benefits, the various teams at HS2 are quietly and diligently getting on with delivering some of the most remarkable engineering achievements this country has ever seen. Today, we have come to visit a section of railway that has more than its fair share of amazing engineering – from the West Ruislip portal of the western section of Northolt Tunnel to Copthall Tunnel and the Colne Valley viaduct. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 152. East West Rail – Has the RMT gone too far this time? | 03 Sep 2026 | 01:01:30 | |
RMT ballots for strike action over Driver Only Operation onEast West Rail Has Andy Burnham agreed a pay deal with ASLEF for AvantiWest Coast drivers? And digital signalling goes live between Welwyn Garden Cityand Hitchin In this episode: (00:35) RMT ballots for strike action (15:16) Pay deal for Avanti drivers (23:56) Railway News round-up (24:08) New Elizabeth Line trains enter service (24:57) ScotRail announces train builder shortlist (26:05) Thameslink seats to get cushioning (27:30) RMT calls for ROSCO levy (29:22) Nexus unveils Washington extension route (30:10) Burscough level crossing accident (30:59) Lewes line reopens after derailment (31:21) Jon Worth’s record attempt (33:28) Digital signalling goes live on ECML (39:35) Wickford derailment RAIB update (45:10) HS2 Copthall tunnel teaser (48:31) Thanks to supporters (50:00) Heritage Railway News round-up (50:03) Steam returns after dry weather (51:07) Kent & East Sussex youth programme graduation (51:35) North Yorkshire Moors classroom (52:15) Merchant Navy Brocklebank Line transfer (53:01) Bewdley Express launch (55:42) The Quiz (58:41) London Waterloo’s Paw Patrol Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| In The Cab - Digital Signalling Goes Live on the East Coast Main Line | 02 Sep 2026 | 00:31:18 | |
A major milestone was reached on 31st August 2026 when the Welwyn to Hitchin Migration area of the East Coast Main Line went live for ETCS 2 operation. Whilst the system is still in what is called overlay mode, it nonetheless represents a major success for the project. Green Signals recently had the chance to spend time with members of the project team as well as the drivers using the system in service to find out more with respect to what the system can do and why it’s such a potential game changer. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Commuting by Heritage Train - Riding the FIRST Bewdley Express! | 01 Sep 2026 | 00:11:22 | |
Bewdley station on the Severn Valley Railway last saw a regular commuter service to Birmingham in 1970. Now, 56 years later, and thanks to a partnership between the Severn Valley Railway, the West Midlands Rail Executive and West Midlands Railway it is once again possible to catch a commuter service from Bewdley - and on a heritage train. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 151. Is it time to get tough on CrossCountry after power outage causes widespread cancellations? | 27 Aug 2026 | 00:58:01 | |
Is it time to get tough on CrossCountry, following a poweroutage that resulted in cancellation of most of its services? We ask why a £3m contract has been awarded for a GBR brandstrategy when the GBR brand has already been launched. And has West Coast Railways been denied an exemption to runMk 1s without CDL - AGAIN? In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:39) CrossCountry power outage (14:35) £3m GBR branding contract (25:30) WCR Mk 1 exemption update (30:43) Railway News round-up (30:47) Lewes services to be restored (31:24) RMT strikes over Class 810s (32:30) Northern gateline reduction trials (33:46) Railway bridge crash near Kilmarnock (34:54) Paignton Platform 2 restored after arson attack (35:40) Network Rail sues over Llangennech oil spill (37:57) Green light for “HS2 lite” study (44:20) Thanks to supporters (45:43) Heritage railway news round-up (45:55) Castle Cary station transformation (47:32) Bewdley commuter services (48:08) Shark brake van moves to Locomotion (49:17) One : One collection open weekend (50:24) The Quiz (55:04) Amey apprentices complete charitychallenge Credits: Thumbnail image - CrossCountry Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 150. Is Britain’s railway prepared (and funded) to cope with climate change? | 20 Aug 2026 | 00:58:11 | |
RAIB releases its initial report into the Lewes derailment Virgin Trains take a step closer to competing with Eurostar; and We take a look at the amazing HS2 station at Old Oak Common In this episode (00:00) Intro (01:04) The Lewes derailment and the challenges facing Network Rail (28:37) Virgin Trains secures track access to HS1 (35:19) DB Cargo UK up for sale (36:39) Disruption on LNER and East Coast (37:04) Electrification of Borders Railway gets underway (37:54) Is a through service to London from Cleethorpes and Grimsby back on track? (39:28) HGV driver in Scotland fined for bridge strike (40:43) Excuses from TransPennine customers for not having a ticket! (42:12) Old Oak Common HS2 station - we get exclusive access (Excerpt) (45:47) Thanks to supporters (47:10) Rother Valley Railway - first level crossing (47:51) National Tramway Museum at Crich gets new Access Tram (49:11) Yeovil Railway Centre and its Parliament Wagon (50:21) The Quiz (54:18) Chateau Denmark Hill - Britain's first railway station with its own wine Credits: Thumbnail image - Network Rail Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| We go behind the scenes at HS2’s new Old Oak Common Mega Station! | 19 Aug 2026 | 00:12:02 | |
In West London, London’s new mega station is taking shape. At Old Oak Common, a brand new 14 platform super hub railway station is rising from the ground and when complete, it will transform train travel. The 6 platforms for the semi underground HS2 station are nowbuilt, and Green Signals has been invited along to take an exclusive look. And it’s fair to say, it’s breathtaking! | |||
| Mega update on Channel Tunnel rail plans – with Jon Worth, EU Rail writer and campaigner | 18 Aug 2026 | 00:30:25 | |
Finally, after years of inaction, it does finally look like there’s change coming to Channel Tunnel rail services between London, Paris and potentially many more destinations besides. There are brand new operators on the cards such as Virgin Trains, Gemini and Trenitalia. There’s the possibility of new trains as well as new services. There could be new capacity at St Pancras International, new depots to maintain trains – and there’s even talk of reopening Ebbsfleet and Ashford in Kent. Eurostar are getting in on the act as well with new trains and possibly new services too. And perhaps most remarkable of all, the Scottish Government are going to see if there’s a market for night sleeper services from Scotland to mainland Europe. We talk to Jon Worth, the popular independent EU Rail policy commentator, writer and campaigner to talk about the latest developments. | |||
| 149. Manchester power outage – is the railway vulnerable? | 13 Aug 2026 | 01:00:53 | |
24 hours of north west rail chaos following a power cut. Do mega signalling centres put too many eggs in too few baskets? East Midlands Railway – is there light at the end of the tunnel? And the latest proposal on Channel Tunnel services is seriously left field! In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:27) Manchester Power Cut (12:56) East Midlands Railway timetable restoration (19:05) Channel Tunnel update – Scottish Govt Night Sleeper study (20:25) Interview excerpt with Jon Worth (27:53) Lumo and issues with toilets! (36:59) Investigation into DRS drivers misuse of ticket for work travel (38:37) GTR to trial stopping some digital tickets to reduce fraud (41:05) Network Rail fined £1.2m for wall collapse in Rugby (42:11) DfT announces changes to 16-17 railcards for 18 year olds (43:12) The last span is installed on the Baker Viaduct, TRU (44:37) Charing Cross track renewals – exclusive trackside walk - Excerpt (48:14) Thanks to supporters (49:26) Naming of 800012 “The Greatest Gathering” at Paddington (50:54) The Bure Valley Railway - Excerpt (54:21) The Quiz (57:46) Betty the Junior Mouse Catcher at Sutton Coldfield Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Charing Cross: Exclusive access to the track during a major rail renewal project | 11 Aug 2026 | 00:14:23 | |
It is one thing carrying out track renewals on the railway when it is being done away from urban centres. But when it is in the centre of the capital city on a section of railway that is amongst the busiest in the world, it is quite another. But that is exactly what Network Rail and South Eastern are doing in a major, 22 day blockade to replace track and rebuild platforms between Waterloo East and Charing Cross. And best of all, Green Signals was invited to go and walk the track to the works up close! Subscribe: If you liked this video, please give it a thumbs up. Better still, hit that subscribe button. It supports the channel and means you'll be notified whenever we publish something new. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/join Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignals Green Signals: Website - http://www.greensignals.org Shop - http://greensignals.etsy.com Newsletter - http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-list Follow: X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltd Instagram - https://instagram.com/greensignallers Credits: Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail) Important Notes: The views and opinions expressed by any guests or interviewees on this channel / podcast are strictly their own and should not be assumed to reflect those of the hosts, the management or the Directors of Green Signals Productions Limited. The Green Signals podcast should not be considered professional advice, and listeners should consult appropriate and qualified professionals for advice tailored to their specific needs. The Green Signals podcast and YouTube channel is provided ‘as is’ and the information provided on the podcast may not be accurate or complete. None of Green Signals Productions Limited, its Directors, hosts or management are liable for any claims or damages in any form arising from the use of or reliance on any statement, advertisement, product, service mentioned or any discussion about any matter. None of Green Signals Productions Limited, its Directors, its hosts or its management are responsible for or any liability in respect of any third party advertiser content, claims or representations. The views, opinions or claims of any advertiser or commercial third party that may from time to time appear on, or be referenced by us, in any of our podcast shows or videos should not be taken to reflect our own views or opinions in any way.All copyright in the original content created by Green Signals Productions Limited and published on the podcast and the YouTube channel is owned by Green Signals Productions Limited and must not be used or reproduced without written consent.You can check our Privacy Policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/privacy-policy/ | |||
| 148. ScotRail’s Ticket App Fiasco is sending a powerful warning to GBR | 06 Aug 2026 | 01:06:09 | |
ScotRail’s ticket app fiasco which is sending a powerfulwarning to GBR West Coast Railways is handed an Improvement Notice by theORR over droplight windows And ASLEF threatens industrial action over toilets In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:28) ScotRail’s ticket app fiasco (22:32) Okehampton Interchange opens (33:08) U-Cross roll out update (40:33) Railway News round-up (40:36) RMT strikes over EMR Auroras (41:47) Is East West Rail dispute coming to an end? (44:13) Golborne station projects begins (45:17) HS2 signs new commercial contracts (46:15) Porthmadog level crossing incident (47:13) West Coast Railways Improvement Notice (50:40) ASLEF’s toilet campaign (55:41) Thanks to supporters (58:00) Heritage News round-up (58:05) Nene Valley Railway new project (59:02) ORR guidance on young volunteers (01:00:24) Churnet Valley Railway vandalism (01:01:20) The Quiz (01:03:40) Trespassing tortoise in Runcorn Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: Green Signals Productions Limited was commissioned to produce the Alpine Belle film by Belle Trains Limited. Our tickets and expenses were paid for by them. Notwithstanding that, the opinions expressed by us in the film are our own. You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Deltic D9015 Tulyar returns after 30 years. With cab ride! | 02 Aug 2026 | 00:27:38 | |
It’s almost 30 years since Deltic No D9015 Tulyar turned a wheel in passenger service. But thanks to the remarkable efforts of the Deltic Preservation Society, Tulyar made a triumphant return to traffic on 31st July 2026 at the Great Central Railway. We were invited to go and see the locomotive put through its paces and we got the chance of a much coveted cab ride in D9015 from Loughborough to Leicester. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: Green Signals Productions Limited was commissioned to produce the Alpine Belle film by Belle Trains Limited. Our tickets and expenses were paid for by them. Notwithstanding that, the opinions expressed by us in the film are our own. You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 147. East Midlands Railway boss ‘steps down’ amid growing crisis – What now? | 30 Jul 2026 | 01:07:47 | |
The boss of troubled East Midlands Railway leaves withimmediate effect – so what happens now? Will third-party ticket retailers face unfair competitionwhen GBR launches its own retail platform? And we speak to AllRail who represent independent railoperators as to why they think open access strengthens the railway, despiteclaims they abstract revenue. In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:39) EMR boss steps down (12:37) Third-party ticket competition (26:00) Railcard sales initiative (34:26) Railway News round-up (34:29) Paignton railway station arson (35:45) Botley Road reopening delayed (37:09) Portishead railway reopening work under way (38:17) Trams for Bristol? (39:49) West Midlands strikes off (40:50) Greater Anglia weather disruption (42:28) Hoghton crossing collision clarification (43:44) AllRail open access interview (49:04) Thanks to supporters (50:32) Heritage Railway News round-up (50:36) Severn Valley Railway Birmingham to Bewdley services (54:00) Swindon & Cricklade Railway thefts (54:59) Isle of Man horse tram tracks extension (56:23) Deltic No. 9015 Tulyar to return to traffic (57:33) Vale of Berkeley Line return (59:08) The Quiz (01:03:11) Northern hands out fish and chips Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Credits: Thubmnail image - East Midlands Railway Important notes: Green Signals Productions Limited was commissioned to produce the Alpine Belle film by Belle Trains Limited. Our tickets and expenses were paid for by them. Notwithstanding that, the opinions expressed by us in the film are our own. You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| The North Norfolk Railway: A steam train to the seaside | 28 Jul 2026 | 00:26:39 | |
The North Norfolk Railway is one of Britain’s most delightful heritage railways. Beautifully preserved in an Edwardian time capsule, a visit to the North Norfolk Railway evokes memories of a long-gone Britain – of long, lazy summer days and holidays by the beach. Stef and Richard recently went to visit the railway and have a look behind the scenes at what it takes to keep this marvellous railway in such superb condition. They even manage to find time to visit the beach and enjoy fish and chips – out of the wrapper of course! The North Norfolk Railway truly is a “steam train to the seaside”. Important NotePermission was secured from the parents of the child shown operating the signal box levers for those images to appear in the video. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 146. East Midlands Railway crisis – Unreliable trains trigger emergency timetable | 23 Jul 2026 | 01:10:36 | |
East Midlands Railway is in crisis. Unreliable trains trigger a short-notice emergency timetable. Andy Burnham becomes PM – what does it mean for rail and devolution? And RAIB releases its initial findings into the fatal level crossing collision at Hoghton in Lancashire. In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:29) EMR emergency timetable (21:35) Andy Burnham and devolution (34:04) Manchester buses follow-up (38:48) Railway News round-up (38:53) GBR West Midlands launch (39:42) Gemini Trains announces London to Koln plans (41:25) Glasgow Central fully reopens (42:40) Canadian railway wildfire (44:13) SWR receives Defence ERS Gold Award (45:26) £33.4m ticket gate plan (46:49) Hoghton level crossing collision update (49:08) ORR revenue abstraction report (56:09) Thanks to supporters (57:14) North Norfolk Railway video teaser (59:07) Heritage Railway News round-up (59:10) N2 returns to NNR service (01:00:04) Hagley Hall incident at the Severn Valley Railway (01:04:24) Signal box up for auction (01:05:13) The Quiz (01:07:42) Glasgow subway car becomes podcast studio! Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Credits: Thubmnail image - East Midlands Railway Important notes: Green Signals Productions Limited was commissioned to produce the Alpine Belle film by Belle Trains Limited. Our tickets and expenses were paid for by them. Notwithstanding that, the opinions expressed by us in the film are our own. You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Restoring the missing rail link in the Rother Valley | 17 Jul 2026 | 00:14:42 | |
The Rother Valley Railway is a remarkable project to restore a missing 3.5 mile link to reconnect the Kent & East Sussex Railway with the London – Hastings main line at Robertsbridge. When it’s complete, this 14 mile long railway will take visitors through some of England’s most beautiful countryside past Bodiam Castle to Tenterden. The Rother Valley Railway recently passed a major milestone with the opening of Robertsbridge station and the rededication of the link to Network Rail. Naturally, Green Signals went along to join in the fun and met, amongst others, Lord Hendy, Huw Merriman, John Smith of GB Railfreight and Suzy Eddie Izzard, the Actor and Comedian. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: Green Signals Productions Limited was commissioned to produce the Alpine Belle film by Belle Trains Limited. Our tickets and expenses were paid for by them. Notwithstanding that, the opinions expressed by us in the film are our own. You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 145. Will Andy Burnham splash the cash on rail? | 16 Jul 2026 | 01:03:15 | |
Andy Burnham will be our next Prime Minister. But is theremoney for his rail promises? The Railways Bill starts its passage through the Lords – andRichard is underwhelmed! And Eurostar is said to have changed its new train order tobe able to cope with 55oC Heatwaves in future! In this episode: (00:00) Intro (03:00) Andy Burnham’s rail promises (09:55) Demystifying Fiscal Rules (30:00) The Railways Bill 2nd reading (39:46) Railway News round-up (39:50) Bedford train crash update (40:51) Fires on the network (43:53) Northern Trains to lease 350/2s (45:00) Europhoenix Rail rises again (46:32) Balgray station to open early (47:26) Jude Bellingham station supports England (48:39) AI misidentifies snake as track defect (49:55) Eurostar specifies trains to cope with 50C (53:04) Thanks to supporters (54:16) Heritage Railway News round-up (54:21) Cholsey & Wallingford Railway closure (54:56) Vale of Rheidol ‘Collection X’ news (57:20) The Quiz (59:55) Hest Bank signal box becomes classroom Credits: Thumbnail image of Andy Burnham - andyformayor.co.uk Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: Green Signals Productions Limited was commissioned to produce the Alpine Belle film by Belle Trains Limited. Our tickets and expenses were paid for by them. Notwithstanding that, the opinions expressed by us in the film are our own. You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| I went behind the scenes on a luxury steam train holiday to the Alps! | 14 Jul 2026 | 00:37:58 | |
When I was offered the opportunity to go behind the scenes on a Belle Trains luxury steam train holiday headed to the Alps, I jumped at the chance. Getting up close and personal with some huge steam locomotives, experiencing an abundance of delicious food, being looked after by some of the friendliest and most efficient staff I’ve ever come across… and the views. Well, breathtaking doesn’t really do them justice. THIS was going to be the trip of a lifetime. Booking Details re The Emerald Isle Belle Full details can be found on the Belle Trains website at: https://www.belletrains.co.uk/emerald-belle-2027 If you have any questions, would like to request a physical copy of the Emerald Isle Belle brochure or would like to book with Belle Trains, please contact the team at enquiries@belletrains.co.uk or by calling +44 1284 330123, Monday-Friday, 09.30 – 16.30 (UK Time). Footage of the steam train in Ireland is: Shutterstock.com / BlackBoxGuild Green Signals Productions Limited was commissioned to produce this film by Belle Trains Limited. Our tickets and expenses were paid for by them. Notwithstanding that, the opinions expressed by us in the film are our own. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: Green Signals Productions Limited was commissioned to produce the Alpine Belle film by Belle Trains Limited. Our tickets and expenses were paid for by them. Notwithstanding that, the opinions expressed by us in the film are our own. You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 144. Failure to electrify Britain’s railway is costing the UK £Billions! | 09 Jul 2026 | 01:01:20 | |
Failure to electrify Britain’s railway is costing the UKbillions of pounds How Network Rail is coping with the heat – we speak to NR’sDeputy CEO Jake Kelly And an HS2 tunnel extension in Bromford is judged not tohave had the correct planning permission… ** Book for the Green Signals Jolly on July 23rd here In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:34) Electrification (25:34) HS2’s Bromford Tunnel (29:58) Railway News round-up (30:02) Concerns over Railways Bill wording (31:59) CAF opens Manchester maintenance depot (32:42) New Scottish railway control hub (34:03) HS2 worker injured at Coleshill (35:06) WCML delayed by… cows (36:07) How Network Rail is coping with the heat (46:03) Alpine Belle video teaser (49:38) Heritage news round-up (49:42) Furka Pass 100th anniversary (50:58) Pulling with Purpose: The Steam Locomotive Challenge (52:08) REPTA donates £15k to Barclay No. 2068 (52:52) Mallard inspires football kit (53:53) Thanks to supporters (55:21) The Quiz (57:44) Nala the station cat to receive statue Credits: Thumbnail image - LNER Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: Important notes: Green Signals Productions Limited was commissioned to produce the Alpine Belle film by Belle Trains Limited. Our tickets and expenses were paid for by them. Notwithstanding that, the opinions expressed by us in the film are our own. You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 143. Why does heat wreak havoc with the railway? And what can we do about it? | 02 Jul 2026 | 01:05:13 | |
Why does heat wreak havoc with the railway? And what can wedo about it? A so-called ‘near miss between two trains at Clay Cross turns out to be nothing of the sort… And the National Audit Office makes someremarkable recommendations on HS2 ** Book for the Green Signals Jolly on July 23rd here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/green-signals-jolly-to-the-keighley-worth-valley-railway-tickets-1986536021717?aff=oddtdtcreator In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:30) Heat and the railway (19:09) Clay Cross incident (23:17) HS2 NAO report (33:02) Railway News round-up (33:05) Bedford recovery completed (34:39) Hoghton level crossing accident (36:05) Cambridge South station opens (37:52) Cambridge University vs East West Rail (39:17) Camp Hill Line passenger numbers (41:09) Etihad Rail passenger service launched (42:59) Germany Railways GSM-R fault (44:12) Norwood Junction access ramp report (52:36) Heritage News round-up (52:38) Heritage railways close due to heat (53:44) North Dorset Railway receives Wickham railbus (55:13) Railway 200 Inspiration train completes tour (57:30) Thanks to supporters (58:45) The Quiz (01:01:23) Downpatrick & County Down Railwayaward Credits: Thumbnail image - Network Rail Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 142. Bedford Train Crash Latest – What we know… And what we don’t. | 25 Jun 2026 | 01:07:51 | |
Bedford train crash latest – What do we know? And, crucially, what don’t we know yet? RAIB releases its report into October 2024’s Talerddig rail accident – and there are a few surprises … And the ORR rejects Alliance Rail again over its Marchwood open access application. **Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to TicketyBoo website: https://myticketyboo.com/ Use code GREENSIGNALS5 at checkout toget £5 off your first booking** In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:29) Bedford train crash latest (19:15) Talerddig rail crash report (26:55) Railway News round-up (27:01) Passenger journeys reach highest level since 1920 (28:34) Doncaster Plant Works celebration (31:24) First Group CEO questions cuts to services (32:56) Rawtenstall reopening hopes from MP (34:37) Is Transport Scotland for the chop? (35:44) Do Not Travel notices during heatwave (37:38) Railway Children Three Peaks fundraiser (39:58) New PM good for the railway? (42:49) ORR rejects Alliance Rail AGAIN (55:58) Heritage Railway News round-up (56:01) South Devon Railway restoration shed (56:42) Severn Valley Railway Large Prairie returns to steam (57:46) Haslemere signal box museum (58:31) SONO Switch Tower museum (59:33) Swanage Railway £25k public appeal (01:00:47) Thanks to Supporters (01:01:52) The Quiz (01:04:43) West Mids railway celebrates 50 years Credits: Thumbnail image - East Midlands Railway Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Reunifying the Great Central - Europe’s only main line double track heritage railway | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:26:58 | |
The Great Central Railway is unique. It is the only main line double track heritage railway in Europe. And it’s brilliant! However, they are not standing still. They have an ambitious and exciting plan to reunify the two surviving sections of the Great Central Railway to create an 18 mile, living museum of transport, anchored by that unique double track section where it is possible to see steam trains passing each other. A truly exhilarating sight, sound and experience. Green Signals went to the Great Central Railway to have a look behind the scenes – and to find out more about the plans to Reunify! Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| We ride a Class 70 to Boulby - Rare track, freight only, semaphore signals. Wow! | 19 Jun 2026 | 00:57:39 | |
The dramatic freight only railway line from Saltburn to Boulby potash mine on the Cleveland coast is a truly spectacular railway. Once forming much of the Saltburn to Whitby line, the 12 mile branch to Boulby is a railway delight with steep gradients, semaphore signals, closed stations, jointed track, token block signalling, even a tunnel on the section of the line that is privately owned and of course heavy haul freight trains pulling 1000 tonnes of potash from the mine to Tees Dock on a regular basis. Join us on this exclusive ride with the driveras we travel over this brilliant line from end to end. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 141. Is the Government’s Rail Reform failing? And how do we fix it? | 18 Jun 2026 | 01:04:52 | |
Is the Government’s Rail Reform failing? And how do we fixit? Andy Burnham says he’ll bring back HS2 to Manchester if he’ssuccessful at becoming PM And we catch up with RealTimeTrains founder TomCairns about the new RTT app **Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to TicketyBoo website: https://myticketyboo.com/ Use code GREENSIGNALS5 at checkout toget £5 off your first booking** In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:29) Is Rail Reform failing? (16:49) Andy Burnham vows to bring back HS2 North (23:22) RealTimeTrains interview (35:11) Railway News round-up (35:17) Bridge strike in Bedworth (37:01) Jacobite derails (38:38) Sinkholes at Purley (39:38) Midland Metro tramlink extension delay (41:38) Stuttgart 21 delay (44:15) East West Rail services to launch? (46:36) Great Central Railway video preview (49:22) TSC follow-up (52:02) Heritage News round-up (52:07) Severn Valley Railway pubs win awards (52:50) Welsh Railbus special trip (53:50) West Somerset Railway mannequin mystery (54:47) Doncaster Works event (56:06) Thanks to supporters (57:20) The Quiz (01:00:49) Northern Explorer ticket launch Credits: Thumbnail image - Department for Transport Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Real people doing real engineering - at Wabtec UK | 16 Jun 2026 | 00:18:34 | |
Two thirds of all Great British Railways spend will be with the railway supply chain. It’s a dynamic environment that is constantly adapting, constantly changing and constantly investing. One of the businesses at the heart of that supply chain is Wabtec and at the moment, they are changing more than most with a £30 million investment to create a new super site, a jewel in the crown of the UK rail supply sector as Managing Director Tim Bentley describes it, in Barton, near Burton on Trent. And recently, Green Signals went to have a good look around this remarkable facility. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 140. Government to cut Transport spend in favour of Defence? | 11 Jun 2026 | 01:05:13 | |
Government plans to cut transport spend to fund defence –what could it mean for railways? Kernow Connect – Is the Okehampton to Launceston and Bodminnew railway proposal the most delusional scheme of the year? And DfT explains how GBR will be held to account – but isthe most important question still unanswered? **Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to TicketyBoo website: https://myticketyboo.com/ Use code GREENSIGNALS5 at checkout toget £5 off your first booking** **Link to book in person tickets for 85Years of Letting Off Steam – An Evening with Christopher Awdry: https://full-steam-ahead.co.uk/ ** In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:40) Transport funding cuts? (10:18) Reaction to fuel hedging segment (15:30) Kernow Connect (28:50) Railway News round-up (28:55) Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre opens (31:28) New Elizabeth Line trains unveiled (32:35) Blackpool Transport Improvement Notice (33:46) TfW disappointment over Carmarthen to Bristol (36:28) Final Tyne and Wear metro Class 599 run (38:03) Network Rail Scotland employs sheep (39:20) Realtime Trains app launch (40:00) Europhoenix to cease trading (41:31) Railways Bill news (47:43) Wabtec video teaser (51:50) Heritage News round-up (51:56) National Railway Museum £3m funding (52:53) Great Central Railway graffiti frustration (53:45) Avon Valley Railway street art carriage (54:55) West Somerset Railway hopes dashed (56:44) Thanks to supporters (58:10) The Quiz (01:02:03) TransPennine Express 44-year railwayman retires Credits: Thumbnail tank image - Ministry of Defence Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 139. Why did the Government block train operators from buying cheaper fuel?! | 04 Jun 2026 | 01:00:11 | |
Why did the Government block train operators from buying cheaper fuel?! Can HS2 trains be tested on HS1, or not? And… the Jacobite steam train returns! But NOT with Mark 1 carriages. **Link to download the TicketyBoo appLink to TicketyBoo websiteUse code GREENSIGNALS5 at checkout to get £5 off your first booking** In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:27) Government blocked fuel hedging? (09:28) Can HS2 trains be tested on HS1? (17:30) HS2 TSC – Euston, rolling stock, WCRM (39:36) Railway News round-up (39:40) GWR Security Operations Centre (40:40) Tyne and Wear Metro leaks fix (41:31) £20m wires renewal for North Clyde lines (42:42) WiFi upgrade for 1,400 trains (43:39) Greater Anglia catering trial (44:13) Lightning strikes the North (45:03) Thameslink timetable changes (45:55) Jacobite steam train returns (49:59) Heritage News round-up (50:04) Nene Valley Resilience Fund (50:38) Class 33 D6535 rededicated (51:12) Steam from Southwold (51:45) NYMR Bridge 42 £50k award (52:32) Thanks to Supporters (53:54) The Quiz (57:22) Pitlochry Station Bookshop £500k donation Credits: Thumbnail image - TransPennine Express Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Building Freight Train wagons in the UK at W H Davis | 02 Jun 2026 | 00:23:35 | |
Formed in 1908, WH Davis Ltd. has been based at Langwith Junction near Shirebrook its entire history and is today recognised as the UK’s last remaining independent rail wagon manufacturer.I’ve come to have look around this extraordinary place which remains a standard bearer of world class precision engineering and heavy duty manufacturing supporting the rail sector both home and abroad. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 138. HS2 planned to use tech that “hasn’t been invented yet”… Really?! | 28 May 2026 | 01:05:33 | |
HS2 planned to use a technology that “hasn’t been inventedyet”… Really? GBR’s livery begins rolling out on trains, but what happens next? And now Thameslink is following Avanti West Coast’s exampleand cancelling some summer services. What is going on? ** Find out more about the Emerald Isle Belle here: https://www.belletrains.co.uk/emerald-belle-2027or by calling 01284 330123 In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:56) HS2 at the Transport Select Committee (26:56) GBR livery rollout (33:12) Thameslink cuts summer services (35:50) Railway News round-up (35:55) Operators’ names rumour (36:49) Feasibility study to reopen Boulby Line (37:45) Hire a luxury train (39:12) Railways Bill report stage (40:28) £500k station toilets (41:58) Open access news (48:18) Heritage railway news round-up (48:22) VAT cut for tourist attractions (49:31) GCR campaign to clean up Stanford Viaduct (50:41) N2 locomotive passes Steam Examination Test (51:28) Romney Hythe and Dymchurch solar panels (52:36) W H Davis wagon building teaser (55:27) Thanks to Supporters (56:41) The Quiz (01:01:47) Preston Tram Bridge replaced Credits: Thumbnail image - HS2 Ltd Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Open Access to Marchwood: “Shoddy, Unevidenced and Factually Incorrect” – Yeowart slams ORR | 27 May 2026 | 00:27:39 | |
Over 25 years since the UK’s first open access passenger rail service, and the subject still divides opinion. Those for point to services to communities that had been forgotten, competition driving down prices as well as stimulating. Those against point to revenue abstraction not outweighed by the growth and to adding serious performance challenges on an already congested network. One person who has led the charge for Open Access and has been unquestionably successful in the process is Ian Yeowart. He is tenacious, focused and very experienced. Ian’s latest venture though, the running of services between Marchwood on a reopened Waterside branch, through Southampton, Winchester and Basingstoke to London Waterloo has been comprehensively rejected by the ORR – and he’s not best pleased. I caught up with Ian to hear his views and he is characteristically forthright in his opinions. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Running an integrated railway - South Western Railway MD Lawrence Bowman interview | 26 May 2026 | 00:36:41 | |
On the morning of Sunday 25 May, the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander MP boarded the first South Western Railway service to depart London Waterloo. The company’s new Managing Director, Lawrence Bowman, has been steadily working hard since to create an integrated SWR and Network Rail team, responsible for both train operations and infrastructure. As Great British Railways continues to develop and form, Lawrence Bowman finds himself in arguably the hottest of all hotseats. The last 11 months has been a challenge though for all sorts of reasons, and those opposed to renationalisation have wasted no time pointing out that at times, performance has dipped below what it was under private operation. As ever, the story is much more complex than that. To find out what has been going on and more importantly what is planned, I have come to Wimbledon Train Care depot to meet with Lawrence and ask what the plan is and how challenging it’s going to be to deliver it. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Artificial Intelligence is coming to the railway - But what does it mean? | 22 May 2026 | 00:21:43 | |
Artificial Intelligence is no longer science fiction. It’s increasingly science fact. And it’s coming to the railway whether we like it or not. GBRX has created the AI Industry Action Plan to show how Britain’s railway will move from isolated AI pilots to safe, scalable, system-wide adoption. Green Signals went along to the glitzy launch event for the AI Industry Action Plan at the Science Museum, London, at the end of April to see what the fuss was about – and learn more about the plans and technologies that could shape the way that people interact with the railways for decades to come. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 137. HS2’s ‘Original Sins’. Up to £102bn cost. Slower speeds. Years late. What went wrong? | 21 May 2026 | 01:10:41 | |
HS2’s ‘Original Sins’. Up to £102bn cost. Slower speeds.Years late. What went wrong? Avanti West Coast prepares to cut 38 daily weekday servicesfor six weeks. Bristol to Oxford direct services are restored! And Artificial Intelligence is coming to the railway fasterthan ever… **Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to TicketyBoo website: https://myticketyboo.com/ Use code GREENSIGNALS5 at checkout toget £5 off your first booking** **Link to buy BR Times books fromTransport Treasury Publishing: https://ttpublishing.co.uk/product/br-times-issue-1/ Use code brsummer26 at checkout to get£2 off** ** Book the Green Signals Jolly to theKeighley & Worth Valley Railway here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/green-signals-jolly-to-the-keighley-worth-valley-railway-tickets-1986536021717?aff=oddtdtcreator In this episode: (00:00) Intro (00:39) HS2’s ‘original sins’ (20:02) Bristol-Oxford direct reinstated (26:00) Artificial Intelligence in rail (29:27) Railway News Round-Up (29:57) LNER Flying Scotsman service restored (30:36) TfW service improvements (31:28) Darlington station transformation (32:00) GBR livery applied to Class 387 (33:50) GB Railfreight redundancies (34:57) Settle-Carlisle discounted tickets (36:14) Last relay from Siemens historic Chippenham site (49:07) Avanti West Coast cuts services (52:39) Lawrence Bowman interview teaser (57:10) Heritage Railway news round-up (57:16) Pocket Rocket sold to Strathspey Railway (58:19) Bridgnorth Cliff Railway wall dispute (59:30) Stockton & Darlington Railway plan restored (01:00:13) Greatest Gathering Legacy event (01:01:26) Four-coach teak carriages to the NYMR (01:02:04) Thanks to Supporters (01:03:16) The Quiz (01:06:59) Bridal party on a South Wales Metro Credits: Thumbnail image - HS2 Ltd Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| Fighting the Fight against flooding on Devon and Cornwall’s railways | 18 May 2026 | 00:30:31 | |
There is considerable debate about the causes of, and future predictions for, climate change. But what is not in any doubt is that our weather has become more unpredictable and extreme. The South West of England has always suffered more than most and the railway has always been at the forefront of meeting the challenge. In 2014, a serious breach of the sea wall at Dawlish caused the railway to be closed for 2 months whilst it, and the sea wall, were rebuilt. 2026 provided an opportunity for the defences to be tested like never before with multiple named storms that battered the region. The Main Lines held up well and were quickly reopened. The branch lines were not so fortunate and the lines to Barnstaple, Okehampton, Looe and Newquay were closed for extended periods. The Tarka Line from Exeter to Barnstaple was closed for around 24 days between January 27th and February 20th, yet this is no sleepy branch line but a vitally important community railway carrying almost 1 million passengers a year, that’s a serious problem. I was keen to see what was being done to address the problem and so at the kind invitation of Network Rail, I travelled down to Devon and Cornwall to have a look first hand. The mixture of collaborative working and new technology I saw first hand was really impressive…. Credits: Thumbnail image - Balfour Beatty Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||
| 136. Great Western Railway nationalisation date confirmed | 14 May 2026 | 00:58:36 | |
Great Western Railway will be nationalised in December… and that much-loved historic green livery will soon disappear HS2’s big ‘reset’ is delayed AGAIN. Or is it? GB Railfreight’s Class 99s take a big leap towards entering service And… an LNER overspeed incident might have been caused by driver distraction. **Link to download the TicketyBoo app: https://myticketyboo.com/app_download/ Link to TicketyBoo website: https://myticketyboo.com/ Use code GREENSIGNALS5 at checkout to get £5 off your first booking** ** Book the Green Signals Jolly to the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/green-signals-jolly-to-the-keighley-worth-valley-railway-tickets-1986536021717?aff=oddtdtcreator In this episode: (00:00) Intro (01:54) GWR nationalisation date announced (12:24) Is HS2’s ‘reset’ delayed? (17:45) Railway news round-up (17:52) GSM-R fault causes disruption (18:33) Oxley freight derailment (19:32) British Steel to be nationalised (20:03) Severn Tunnel major work (21:08) Mid Cornwall Metro launch (21:53) ORR rejects Grand Union open access application (24:23) Class 99s gain Statement of Compatibility (30:17) Grantham overspeed caused by ‘driver distraction’? (36:26) South West weather resilience video teaser (42:10) Heritage news round-up (42:19) East Lancs graffiti attack (42:52) Vale of Rheidol Railway Prince of Wales oil conversion (44:06) Talyllyn Railway celebrates 75thanniversary (44:53) Severn Valley Railway platform extension (45:55) Avon Valley Railway £150k fundraising appeal (46:43) Kent & East Sussex Railway Morning Bird-Song Tours (47:32) Museum of Scottish Railways new exhibition (48:35) Thanks to Supporters (50:36) The Quiz (55:24) Wabtec Doncaster Open Day Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too. Green Signals: You can view our legal disclaimer, copyright information and privacy policy here - https://www.greensignals.org/legal/ | |||