How Network Rail is ensuring headlines of the 2022 Commonwealth Games is 'sport not transport'

With only 156 days to go until the beginning of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, there is still much to be done to ensure the rail network is equipped to deal with the increased capacity of passengers the event will bring.

Our blog will outline the steps that Neil Gaskin, the Route Delivery Director and Commonwealth Games Lead for Network Rail, is taking to ensure the headlines of the games will be “sport not transport”.

The challenge

With 11 days of sporting events and participants from 72 Commonwealth nations, Network Rail have forecasted there will be over one million passenger journeys between the 28th of July and the 8th of August. Therefore, Network Rail faces a key challenge in ensuring they provide a safe, high performing and customer focussed railway throughout the 14 key ‘event stations’ illustrated below:

To achieve this, the Network Rail team will have to work closely with the wider transport industry to support transport hub integration plans, whilst also delivering a multi million pound asset resilience programme by the end of June to ensure all attendees have a timely and enjoyable rail experience.

Increasing diversity to make a railway for all

Committed to being a diverse and inclusive organisation, Network Rail have pledged to conduct accessibility reviews at all 13 key event stations as part of their Diversity Impact Assessment. Additionally, the rail network will also be expected to cater for the full para schedule of events, including para swimming, wheelchair basketball and para athletics, making it vital these measures are in place.

To further ensure that the railway is accessible to all, Network Rail have an increased presence on stations to provide mobility assistance throughout the duration of the games.

Ensuring a sustainable approach

Following the announcement of the clean air zone launched in Birmingham in June 2021, Network Rail have made a clear commitment to ensuring that the Commonwealth Games does not significantly decrease the air quality for local residents.

To encourage spectators of the game to get on board, all attendees will receive local bus, train and tram travel included within the price of their tickets. As a single train can remove up to 500 cars from the roads, it is vital Network Rail provide a reliable and punctual rail service to serve the event.

Additionally, as the redevelopment of Birmingham New Street Station pushed the boundaries in low carbon technology and sustainability practices, it is critical that Network Rail continue to pledge to reduce emissions at key events such as The Commonwealth Games.

Utilising Operations and Maintenance Response Teams  

Following the announcement of the clean air zone launched in Birmingham in June 2021, Network Rail have made a clear commitment to ensuring that the Commonwealth Games does not significantly decrease the air quality for local residents.

To encourage spectators of the game to get on board, all attendees will receive local bus, train and tram travel included within the price of their tickets. As a single train can remove up to 500 cars from the roads, it is vital Network Rail provide a reliable and punctual rail service to serve the event.

Additionally, as the redevelopment of Birmingham New Street Station pushed the boundaries in low carbon technology and sustainability practices, it is critical that Network Rail continue to pledge to reduce emissions at key events such as The Commonwealth Games.

Aid from volunteers

For those who are wanting to support the Commonwealth Games in a different way, the Network Rail Project Management Office are currently coordinating a volunteering training programme to support the delivery of a great rail service.

It is estimated that over 700 volunteering shifts will be undertaken throughout the games duration. These volunteers will be trained by Network Rail in station operations and the delivery of excellent customer service, allowing everyone to get involved in putting passengers first.

Although The Commonwealth Games are fast approaching, it’s clear that Neil Gaskin and his team at Network Rail are taking the necessary precautions and measures to ensure the headlines are ‘sport not transport’.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Network Rail's preparations for the 2022 Commonwealth Games demonstrate the organization's commitment to delivering reliable and efficient rail services, even in challenging circumstances. With millions of visitors expected to travel to Birmingham for the games, Network Rail is taking a proactive and collaborative approach to ensure the rail network is ready to meet the increased demand.

One of the key elements of Network Rail's the preparations is collaboration with other stakeholders, including local authorities, event organizers, and transportation providers. By working together, these groups can share knowledge and expertise, identify potential issues, and develop effective solutions to ensure a seamless transportation experience for visitors to the games.

Another important aspect of Network Rail's preparations is investment in infrastructure and technology. This includes upgrading signaling and control systems, improving station facilities, and introducing the new digital technologies to optimize asset performance and improve reliability.

Network Rail is also taking steps to ensure its staff are fully prepared for the challenges of the Commonwealth Games. This includes providing training and support to frontline workers, as well as implementing new safety protocols and procedures to ensure the smooth operation of the rail network.

Overall, Network Rail's preparations for the 2022 Commonwealth Games demonstrate the organization's commitment to delivering reliable, efficient, and safe rail services, even in the face of significant challenges. By investing in infrastructure and technology, collaborating with stakeholders, and supporting its staff, Network Rail is well-positioned to meet the increased demand for rail services during the games and beyond.