Reference Group met in December 2018 to review and consider findings of report commissioned from ARUP. Report demonstrated that no quick or easy infrastructure interventions were available to increase line speeds, limited journey time saving’s were achievable from lots of small line speed improvements and doubling Montrose- Usan does not provide any journey time benefits. Benefits from line doubling are in capacity, reliability / punctuality and in flexibility.
Removal of constraint at Montrose would provide poor value for money due to a very high financial cost and possibly a significant environmental impact. It may not on its own, provide a step change in journey times, and needs to be considered in context of whole route.
Consensus across Reference Group was that further work is required to identify maximum possible benefits achievable for £200 million available.
Signalling capacity constraints immediately south of Aberdeen were identified and work is underway to install new signalling between Newtonhill and Craiginches. This will support capacity for Revolution in Rail (RiR) between Aberdeen and Stonehaven.
The Reference Group met on 12 September 2019 when it was established that delivery of this commitment would be best achieved through signalling investment between Dundee to Aberdeen. It was agreed that the £200 million would be used for a significant signalling investment, which would open up capacity for consideration and progression of the following:-
- Freight / Passenger loops;
- Targeted Linespeed Improvements; and
- Decarbonisation of the rail network.
This approach would also aid in delivery of the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government commitment to decarbonisation by 2035, as it will enable full exploitation of the potential of any future electrification and new rolling stock.
The members confirmed the close out of the A-CB Reference Group and the commencement of a project delivery group. The arrangements, name and structure for this Group are to be confirmed.
