The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has requested additional funding for infrastructure in reaction to Network Rail’s financial proposals
The funding is part of the upcoming five-year period starting from April 1, 2024, referred to in Network Rail’s Control Period 7 (CP7) proposal.
In the updated proposals, the total budget allocation across the UK amounts to £43.1bn, with a greater allocation of funds for essential infrastructure projects.
Improving performance and infrastructure in the UK
The proposal emphasised improving train performance and boosting investment tracks and infrastructure.
While the ORR acknowledges that Network Rail’s plans align with government priorities, it stressed the need for a stronger focus on train performance and ensuring the resilience of core assets, given climate change challenges.
These plans result from over two years of collaboration with various stakeholders, guided by the Department for Transport’s (DfT) High-Level Output Statement (HLOS) for England and Wales.
While the CP7 plans for England and Wales are part of a national framework, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Each region and function tailor their strategies to specific situations and challenges, considering the local stakeholders’ priorities.
Transport Scotland provided a similar framework for Scotland’s Railway in February 2023.
ORR pleased with new funds
The regulator said: “ORR welcomes Network Rail’s increase in spending on renewing core assets (such as track, structures and earthworks).
“ORR considers that Network Rail has a suitable framework to understand and manage the change in risk from carrying out fewer renewals and a move to greater maintenance of existing assets.”
Next, Network Rail will roll out delivery plans for the CP & investment programme.
