Wales and Western Region Research & Development Engagement Event

Network Rail is exploring future research and development (R&D) opportunities in collaboration with the supply chain to address key operational and safety challenges across our infrastructure. This early engagement aims to identify suppliers, technology providers, and innovators who are capable of supporting the development of innovative solutions in a range of priority areas.

The scope of this potential procurement includes, but is not limited to, the following areas of interest: Track – Development of solutions for the detection of pre-1979 rail types to identify defects or high-risk sections that may pose performance or safety concerns. Track – Innovative techniques for cutting and grinding back edge lipping to reduce the need for ultrasonic testing and milling interventions.

Freight Operations – Systems or technologies to ensure scrap wagons are loaded safely and correctly, minimising the risk of operational incidents during transit. Infrastructure Maintenance – Automated cleaning systems to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of debris catchment management across the network.

Energy Systems – Enhanced secondary cell battery technologies that improve asset reliability, reduce maintenance burdens, and ease manual handling for railway operatives. Safety and Security – New or improved solutions to detect, prevent, and manage trespass incidents on the rail network.

Points and Switching – Continuous monitoring technologies that can measure the residual switch opening against the stock rail on RT60 points assets, supporting early fault detection and preventative maintenance. Network Rail seeks to understand the level of market interest and capability in each of these areas to inform potential future procurement strategies and innovation funding routes.