10 November 2023
Catherine West MP last week visited her local rail depot in Hornsey to gain further insight to railway operations and investment behind the scenes.
The visit was part of the Railway Industry Association (RIA) Rail Fellowship Programme, which helps senior stakeholder valuable better understand the rail sector and the wider rail supplier community.
The Hornsey rail maintenance depot, operated by Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), is the home of Rock Rail's first UK fleet, the Class 717s.
During the visit, the Hornsey and Wood Green MP witnessed various aspects of the depot's operations including stops at the wheel lathe/bogie drop, the signal panel, and the maintenance shed. She also rode in the cab of a Cl717 to appreciate the perspective from the front of the train.
Rock Rail, an independent developer, owner, and asset manager of rolling stock and rail infrastructure, has provided innovative funding approaches for strategically important passenger rolling stock and other rail infrastructure since its establishment in 2014. With over £3 billion of institutional investment secured since 2016, Rock Rail has played a pivotal role in transforming passenger journeys and delivering enhanced value for money to the public sector.
The RIA Rail Fellowship Programme remains instrumental to providing stakeholders and politicians like Catherine West with the knowledge, information, and insights necessary to make informed decisions about the rail sector. The visit reflects the commitment of MPs like Catherine to understand and support the vital work carried out within the rail industry.
Catherine West MP said: ‘Witnessing the collaboration between Govia Thameslink Railway and Rock Rail in replacing Britain's oldest electric rail fleet highlighted the transformative impact of strategic investments in our rail infrastructure. Rock Rail's innovative funding approaches have played a crucial role in reshaping passenger journeys and my tour of the depot offered insight into this vital work stream within the rail industry, witnessing first-hand how local residents of Hornsey and Wood Green are helping to build a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient rail network for local communities across the UK.
Matt Allen, Rock Rail Chief Investment Officer said: “We really appreciated engaging with Catherine as a key stakeholder in a local community where our rail fleet investment is supporting the local economy and creating employment and skills opportunities. We were very proud to showcase the difference that investment from institutional and public sector pension funds into the railway is making. I am also grateful to the team at the RIA for developing the programme.”
Neal Blackman, Business Engagement Manager RIA London & South, said: “Rock Rail’s innovative approach to financing new trains has provided real benefits for passengers in Hornsey and Wood Green and communities across GTR’s network. It’s a reminder that private investment in infrastructure and rolling stock can turbocharge public funding and deliver a better railway for passengers and taxpayers”.