EMR and partners scoop award for work introducing 360 trains

East Midlands Railway (EMR) has won an industry award in recognition for its work with partners in introducing the EMR Connect fleet.

The project team, which included members from EMR, Network Rail and Siemens, won the Golden Whistle Award in the category of Outstanding Operator/Operating Team.  

The award recognises the project that helped solve a key issue with the certification of Network Rail's overhead power lines that EMR Connect uses. 

Network Rail and EMR worked together to overcome a number of hurdles to be able to fit special equipment to a 12 car Class 360. The equipment enabled them to gather the information needed to certify the overhead lines as safe for passenger use by the May 2021 timetable launch.

The judges were impressed with the speed EMR worked at to solve problems and how it efficiently collaborated with Siemens and Network Rail to successfully deliver the project. They said: "Those passengers are now benefiting from upgraded Siemens trains that are running faster and more sustainably thanks to the work by the EMR, Network Rail, Serco and Siemens Mobility team.”

Paul Barnfield, Operations Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “We are delighted to win this award. It highlights the hard work and dedication of our team to quickly and efficiently collaborate with other partners to meet deadlines that were critical to bring our new EMR Connect service to customers.”

Steve Hopkinson, East Midlands Operations Director for Network Rail, said: “Winning this award is testament to the fantastic alliance we have with East Midlands Railway. By working together, we’re able to provide passengers with a forward-thinking, safe railway. Many of our teams worked incredibly hard to make this happen – and it’s great to see them being recognised.”

Sambit Banerjee, Managing Director, Rolling Stock & Customer Services, Siemens Mobility Limited, said: "This much deserved award shows what collaboration can achieve. I’m very proud that our Customer Services colleagues were able to play their part in delivering for East Midland Railway and, most importantly, the passengers."