Nuclear Transport Solutions’ (NTS) rail division, Direct Rail Services (DRS), has strengthened its commitment to operational excellence with the arrival of cutting-edge driver training simulators.
The new simulators will play a key role in preparing DRS drivers for the rollout of the European Train Control System (ETCS) across the UK’s rail network, equipping them with the skills and experience needed to operate safely and confidently on the next generation of digital railway signalling.
ETCS is a digital in-cab signalling system that replaces traditional lineside signals, helping to improve safety, reliability and network capacity. ETCS has already been introduced on the East Coast Main Line through the East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP).
Located in DRS’s office at Regents Court, Carlisle, the simulators accurately replicate real-world driving conditions and ETCS operations. A ‘virtual cab’ simulator and a number of desktop simulators were installed, allowing drivers to experience a range of scenarios in a controlled setting. The technology enables drivers to build familiarity with ETCS systems, practise responses to operational situations and enhance decision-making skills without impacting live railway operations.
Tony Hewitson, Rail Director at NTS, said: “The introduction of these new ETCS training simulators marks a significant milestone for DRS and demonstrates our commitment to training excellence and the future of the railway.
“As digital signalling technology becomes more widely adopted across the network, it is essential that our drivers have access to the highest standards of training. This simulator provides a realistic and engaging environment that helps develop competence, confidence and operational readiness while maintaining our unwavering focus on safety.”
The simulators were designed and delivered by CORYS, a French specialist in high-fidelity train driving simulation technology and a long-standing supplier to the UK rail industry.
John Madden, Commercial Director at CORYS, said: “CORYS is proud to support DRS’s ETCS driver training as part of the East Coast Digital Programme. The DRS simulators benefit from the latest UK ETCS platform, built with UK freight and passenger operators since 2018 and continuously updated as the real system evolves. Working in partnership with the DRS team has been a genuine pleasure, and their Carlisle training facility is state-of-the-art. We look forward to supporting the wider ETCS rollout as it extends across the network.”
The simulators form part of DRS’s wider training and development programme, ensuring employees have access to the skills and technologies needed to support the evolving needs of customers and the rail industry.
Dale Howcroft, DRS ETCS Operations Specialist, added: “This simulator gives our drivers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with ETCS in a safe and controlled environment. It allows us to recreate a wide range of scenarios and support consistent, high-quality training that will benefit both our people and our customers.”
They were funded by Network Rail as part of the rollout of the ETCS system and offer much greater training opportunities compared with those available in a live rail environment.
Chris Hobden, Programme Director (ECDP), Network Rail, said: “Making a successful switch to digital signalling is about people as much as the technology involved. Network Rail is investing in these facilities to ensure drivers have both the competence and confidence to drive in ETCS. Digital signalling will provide a safer, more capable and more reliable railway for rail freight, supporting its growth and contribution to our economy and environment”.