Further testing ahead of digital signalling being introduced on the East Coast Main Line will affect journeys on the August bank holiday weekend.
Engineering work will affect passenger journeys south of Peterborough towards London between 20.00 on Saturday 29 August and 08.00 on Monday 31 August, with rail replacement bus services in operation for some journeys.*
The work forms the final stages of testing ahead of the £1.4 billion East Coast Digital Programme’s introduction of digital in-cab signalling – replacing traditional lineside “traffic light” signals with real‑time information sent directly into the driver’s cab. Over the long term it will deliver more reliable, greener and even safer journeys.
Digital signalling was successfully introduced on the Northern City Line in London in 2025 and will first be in use on the East Coast Main Line between Welwyn and Hitchin this summer.
Ricky Barsby, Network Rail head of access integration (ECDP), said:
“The work taking place involves the final preparations for us to begin a gradual introduction of digital in-cab signalling on the East Coast Main Line. The ability to control trains in this way will enable a more resilient and reliable railway that is fit for the future.
“We have carefully planned this work to avoid the busiest times of the August bank holiday weekend, and where possible passengers may be able to avoid this disruption by travelling before or after Sunday 30 August.
“We’re sorry to anyone whose journey is affected and grateful to passengers for their patience and understanding.”
A spokesperson for the train operators said:
“We’ve worked closely together and with Network Rail to keep customers moving and minimise disruption wherever possible. We encourage customers to plan ahead and check their journey before travelling so they can choose the option that best suits them.”
On Sunday 30 August, LNER will divert two return services from Newcastle to Bedford for the first time, allowing passengers to transfer onto Thameslink services to London St Pancras. This will enable about 2,500 customers to make their full journey by train thanks to significant work from rail colleagues across the industry. These trains are in addition to other existing LNER services planned to operate on the day.
Check all parts of your journey with National Rail Enquiries or your train operators before travelling.
Lift refurbishment at London St Pancras means there is currently no step-free access to or from the Thameslink platforms at London St Pancras. Get further information and alternative routes for those requiring step-free access.
Image credit: Network Rail
