RSSB2722 - T1158 - Assessing the Case for Implementing a Long-Term Gauging Strategy

Across Europe the distance between the rails (the track gauge) has long been harmonised. However, due to the historical nature of the development of Britain's infrastructure, compared to Continental Europe, GB has much less space around the tracks (known as the loading gauge) and there remains a large degree of variability in vehicle clearance around the network. There are potentially significant benefits to having both larger and more consistent loading gauges. Larger gauges could enable greater capacity by allowing use of larger passenger rolling stock and larger freight to be transported. More consistent gauging would improve route interoperability, improved utilisation of rolling stock, and a better platform train interface for the passenger. With the ambition to unlock these benefits, the Vehicle Structures Systems Interface Committee (V/S SIC) have drafted a Gauging Strategy (V/S GS) that outlines a vision for very long term (50 years) planning in Great Britain which is outlined in A. - D. below: A. Maximise Capacity on Great Britain's Rail Network by adopting the largest cost-effective gauge over a core, nationwide network; B. Define and implement standard infrastructure and vehicle gauges and provide an optimised Customer experience at the Platform / Train Interface; C. Lower Costs of gauging to the industry; D. Contribute to Great Britain's reduction in Carbon emissions through modal shift. However, gauging enhancements are typically expensive, and the very long asset life of civil engineering structures means that benefits from such enhancements can take a very long time to be realised. The justification of any significant gauging enhancement therefore requires a good business case for progression. In addition to the current appraisal process, the justification of individual enhancements will likely require consideration of benefits to the wider system, however the approach to quantifying these benefits is not established and are likely complex. Finally, for the benefits to be realised, an approach must be agreed and defined with support at both the policy and practitioner level, and this approach needs to be consistent over the long term. This VS GS has been endorsed in principle by the Technical Leadership Group (TLG) and the Planning Oversight Group (POG) , with the caveat that before full commitment can be given to the strategy, there is a requirement for evidence-based research to support the principles. A detailed economic study was therefore recommended by the groups to better understand the costs and benefits of implementing such a strategy, and if applicable, how it can be implemented to optimise this investment.   Previous work There has already been a significant amount of work in this area. The Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) published a Gauging Policy .