201811 – Lemon, Smith, Talbot & Heibel – Beyond the New Transformational Frontier: Digital Systems to Enable ‘More Trains, More Services’ in Sydney

Transport for NSW’s (TfNSW) Digital Systems program will transform Sydney’s rail network using world class technology to create high capacity turn up and go services to meet growing demand. The Program will replace legacy signalling and train controls with modern, internationally proven, intelligent systems based around European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 technology.

Digital Systems contains three main elements:
– Replacing trackside signalling equipment with the latest ETCS Level 2 technology
– Implementing Automatic Train Operation (ATO), which will be used to assist drivers – who will still remain in control – and provide faster and more consistent journey times
– Introducing a Traffic Management System (TMS) for more effective incident management and service
regulation across the network.

These elements will deliver significant customer, performance, cost and safety benefits. The modern technology will allow for data driven operations such as dynamic timetabling, and lead to reduced maintenance possessions and increased passenger and freight capacity.

An equally significant component of the program is the organisational transformation required to realise the benefits of the new technology, specifically for the resident operators and maintainers – Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink.

This paper provides an overview of this major signalling technology and change program including the latest developments, delivery considerations and tactics aimed to maximise the potential for successful program delivery.