This weekend, over Saturday and Sunday, 24th and 25 June, critical work in connection with the East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP) was completed between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin in Hertfordshire.

The East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP) is a billion-pound programme that will create a more reliable railway with digital technology that will improve the movement of trains and result in lower emissions.

Instead of traditional lineside signals, continuous signalling information will be displayed on screens in drivers’ cabs.

This weekend’s work included installing a tall radio communications mast and preparatory power and telecommunications work at 63 locations.

The next set of work in connection with the programme will affect services from late evening on Saturday, 26th August to early morning on Bank Holiday Monday, 28th August. It is planned that signalling in the area will become digital from 2025.

The East Coast Digital Programme is introducing digital signalling using the European Train Control System (ETCS). This is a proven technology that many countries in Europe and elsewhere already use but is the first time that it has been used on an intercity mainline in the UK.

It will provide the basis for digital signalling to be rolled out throughout the rest of the UK, although ETCS is already in use on the Cambrian Line in Wales.

Ed Akers, Network Rail’s Principal Programme Sponsor, ECDP, said: “The work carried out this weekend provides more progress towards a digital East Coast railway that will work better for all who depend on it.

“I thank passengers for their patience while we carried out this important work. Digital signalling will enable a more capable railway, providing more reliable passenger and freight services while reducing carbon emissions.”

Jenny Saunders, Thameslink and Great Northern Customer Services Director, said: “Work like this is essential but, sadly, also disruptive for our customers. We do our very best to keep everyone on the move but it would have been a lot harder for many to travel this past weekend, so thank you for your patience.”

Linda Wain, LNER Engineering Director, said: “The East Coast Digital Programme is one of the biggest transformations on the railway – bringing it into a digital age. This vital investment in digital signalling will enable LNER’s Azuma fleet to realise its full potential and we are proud to be working with our industry partners to bring long-term benefits for customers.”