Alstom Delivers New Signalling System in South London
The updated system has been implemented as part of a major Network Rail upgrade initiative to modernise signalling on the lines into London Victoria, the UK’s fifth busiest station.
The updated system has been implemented as part of a major Network Rail upgrade initiative to modernise signalling on the lines into London Victoria, the UK’s fifth busiest station.
In the early hours of 2 November, Alstom’s Digital and Integrated Systems (D&IS) team activated the Tulse Hill Smartlock Interlocking system, which is now operational across Tulse Hill, Peckham Rye, and Crystal Palace stations.
This system is powered by Alstom’s Modular Control System Infinity (MCS-I) workstation, connecting the railway’s infrastructure to Network Rail’s Three Bridges Rail Operating Centre. This enables remote monitoring, streamlined control, and automated route-setting to ensure smoother train operations.
“I am incredibly proud and humbled to have been able to lead such a driven, committed and determined team that has achieved this milestone, and I would like to extend my thanks to all those involved.
“This commissioning will set the tone for Victoria Phase 5 to introduce further Alstom hardware into Three Bridges Rail Operating Centre and cement Alstom as a key delivery partner in the Southern Region going forward through Control Period 7 and into Control Period 8.”
The new system replaces equipment from the 1980s, with engineers installing 23 kilometres of signalling, power supply, and telecoms cables, along with 61 new signals.
The advanced digital interlocking technology transmits control information over an IP network, enabling more extensive remote coverage, faster processing, and reduced infrastructure needs, along with capabilities for data-driven maintenance.
“It's vital that we continue to invest to modernise our assets and give passengers the delay-free journeys they expect, and I want to thank our teams for the work they’ve carried out as well as passengers whose journeys were affected.
“Signalling upgrades between East Croydon and London Victoria in 2022 saw delays cut by more than half, and we hope this latest phase of signalling upgrades in the Crystal Palace, Tulse Hill and Peckham Rye areas will improve reliability and help contribute to improving the performance of this important stretch of railway.”