Media centre

Wednesday 15 Oct 2003

NETWORK RAIL’S AUTUMN PREPARATIONS WELL UNDERWAY

Region & Route:

National

  The autumn season presents every railway in the world with a challenge and will continue to do so this year but Network Rail is as prepared as it can be to counter the 2003 autumn leaf fall season.   This year has seen the most extensive preparations ever and the testing of new laser technology to help mitigate the effects of ‘leaves on the line’. You are invited to a press conference to explain what Network Rail will be doing to reduce service delays attributable to poor track/train adhesion caused by the autumn weather.   We will be holding a photo opportunity where we will demonstrate some of the technology available.  Robin Gisby, Director, Southern, Network Rail will be giving a presentation and is available for interview. The event starts at 11.00 at Wimbledon train care depot, Durnsford Road, Wimbledon, SW19 8EG on Monday 20th October.  The nearest tube station is Wimbledon Park station.  Turn right out of the tube station and down Arthur road until you get to the junction with Durnsford Road. Turn right and Wimbledon train care depot is on the other side of the road.                                      The timetable is as follows: - 10.30               Press arrive for refreshments and safety briefing   11.00               Presentation by Robin Gisby, Director, Southern, Network Rail. 11.30               Demonstration of multi-purpose vehicle fitted with "sandite" applicators, water jetting facility and lasers.  (The lasers are currently being tested and therefore will not be operated for safety reasons). - more - Autumn - 2 11.45               "Hot spot" team demonstrates how work is done manually. 12.00               Robin Gisby available for interview. 13.30               Event ends.  Parking will be provided on site so 'lives' can be carried out if required. For more information please contact Jane Vincent in the Network Rail press office on 0207 557 8292 / 3