Speed Management Programme - Speed Database Development

To address the rail industry problem of train over speeding and the resulting risks, Network Rail has set up a Speed Management Programme with industry collaboration and oversight.

The SMP aims to develop a Speed Management System (SMS) that enables real-time, in-cab information for Permanent (including junction speeds), Blanket, Emergency and Temporary Speed Restrictions (PSR, BSR, ESR, TSR), thereby reducing the risk of overspeed incidents, improving safety, operational efficiency, and supporting network management.

To enable that, the SMS proposes a creation of the National Speed Database (SDB) which is the single version of the speed restrictions truth providing real-time warranted data to the industry.

As per predefined boundaries of the programme, the Railway Undertakings (RU) will install and maintain their own Speed Display System (SDS), be it an existing Driver Advisory System (DAS), Train Control Management System or another device. The broadcast of speed restriction information will conform to a national standard to ensure interoperability with the RUs chosen system and any future deployment of ETCS.

As part of the Speed Management Programme, Network Rail intends to procure a supplier to develop and deliver the National Speed Database (SDB). The SDB will act as the industry's authoritative source for speed restriction information and will support the provision of real-time speed restriction data to railway stakeholders through a nationally standardised interface. This exercise is intended to gather market insight, assess supplier capability and inform Network Rail's procurement strategy, requirements development and future tender approach for the delivery of this solution. We will confirm the Estimated Value when we start the Tender process.