eatures

Growth at Grand Central
The open access operatora€ s future ambitions

Network Rail investment programme
Our annual update on plans to upgrade the network

Wires through history
A look at the challenge of electrifying historic routes and structures

Trade unions a€ a score draw?
ASLEFa€ s Mick Whelan reviews the changing role of the unions

NEC prepares to welcome Railtex
A look ahead to next montha€ s event

Regulars

Welcome
An introduction from the Editor

Railtalk
Modern Railwaysa€ editorial view

Trackwatch
Our monthly look at changes on the national network

Pan Up
Ian Walmsley reviews the IPEMU concept and asks why seats are getting less comfortable

Blood and custard
Our diary column

Forum
Readers comment on topical issues around the railway today

Moving Wheels
Rolling stock news

In Business and small ads
Latest happenings in industry

People
Recent appointments

Crossrail update
Track and rolling stock suppliers for Londona€ s new railway

Alan Williams
Cause for optimism in the north?

News

News Front
Virgin begins East Coast operation; Transformation for the North; a€~Northern Electricsa€ in service; Harbury reopens early

Rail Freight
Freightliner sold; Eversholt sells wagon fleet; Coal slips again

Infrastructure News
NR buys fifth ballast cleaner; Scarborough bridge work completed

Informed Sources
Network Raila€ s 140mph plan for East Coast; McLoughlin signs Pacer death warrant; Signalling in crisis a€" continued

Europe View
Keith Fender presents a round-up of news from across the Channel