A new Digital Lineside Notification (DLN) system is now live on Network Rail’s West Coast South route and is set to benefit over 100,000 residents living within 500 metres of the railway line between Euston and Crewe.
Railway neighbours can opt in and benefit from the new system by receiving information about upcoming railway engineering work by email. It will also allow residents to get updates about current maintenance and upgrade projects in ‘real-time’.
Network Rail’s West Coast South route spans over 1,000 miles of track, with engineers responsible for maintaining 868 bridges. Essential work carried out to keep passengers and freight services running reliably, not only impacts the millions who travel by rail daily nationally, but also those who live and work close to the railway.
The email service - that just needs neighbours to sign-up by visiting www.networkrail.co.uk/RailWorkNearMe - will keep people up-to-date with the latest information about any rail improvement work going on in their neighbourhood, especially those that might cause a disturbance, providing details in a clear, accessible and timely way. This is part of a wider national initiative that will benefit Network Rail’s 25 million neighbours nationwide.
Jonathan Cooke, head of communications for Network Rail’s West Coast South route, said: “We're pleased to announce the launch of our new digital notification system, a significant step in keeping our communities and neighbours informed.
“This eco-friendly and efficient service ensures timely updates on our projects, including maintenance and engineering work. We encourage all residents living near the railway to sign up and stay connected.”
The rollout follows a successful pilot scheme in 2023 across a selection of projects, including the Midland Main Line upgrade and Bolton to Wigan electrification scheme, with 207,114 notifications sent to neighbours with a saving of £362,988.
