Green Signals
Green Signals is a show about railways - its politics, its economics, its people and history. We turn over the issues of the day and talk to the people making the decisions that affect all our lives. We also dig into many of the amazing events in the history of an industry that spans nearly 200 years. Nigel Harris (former Managing Editor and Events Director of the leading industry and opinion forming magazine RAIL) and Richard Bowker (former Chair & CEO of the Strategic Rail Authority) steer the show to make it sometimes controversial, frequently irreverent - but always topical and relevant.
Latest episodes
Apr 24, 2025 • 53min
81. EXCLUSIVE Is Gemini Trains the REAL Eurostar competitor?
New Eurostar challenger Gemini Trains CEO Adrian Quine gives us an EXCLUSIVE interview.And we preview an upcoming interview with Northern Powerhouse Partnership’s Henri Murison, in which he does NOT hold back!In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:32) Gemini Trains interview(29:18) Henri Murison preview(36:12) Thanks to Supporters(38:51) Railway News Round-up(38:59) East Midlands Railway Class 170 refresh(39:46) Southeastern Class 376 Electrostar refresh(41:03) Coventry Very Light Rail system(41:51) Cardiff bridge repairs(46:12) The Quiz(49:43) Isle of Wight Steam Railway buys Ashey stationMembership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)Images - Shutterstock
Apr 23, 2025 • 36min
The Pioneer of Open Access on the Railway – Ian Yeowart interview
Open Access services are an emotive topic. They also risk becoming a real political headache in the process of reforming Britain’s railway. Politicians are talking up the benefits of re-nationalisation and control. Yet they can’t help themselves seemingly wanting to claim some credit for a deal they had no direct role in when the factory that’s building new trains for open access services announces its success to the world. Ian Yeowart is widely regarded in the railway as the guru of open access. He’s been described as the Godfather of open access (a term he dislikes) but he is uncompromising in his views. His focused approach has brought some disappointments but it’s brough considerable success.Richard went to York to chat with Ian and to discuss whether he remains as committed to open access now as he ever was, and what he thinks of the Government’s plans for the future. Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)
Apr 22, 2025 • 40min
Inside Northern Trains: COO Matt Rice on Fixing the North's Railway
Northern Trains operates one of the most complex and expansive rail networks in the UK, serving everything from scenic rural routes to busy urban lines across the North of England. But recent years haven’t been easy—staffing challenges, service cancellations, and political pressure have all taken their toll. In this rare and candid interview, we sit down with Matt Rice, Chief Operating Officer of Northern Trains, to discuss how the operator is turning things around. Filmed in York, Matt shares his vision, addresses criticism, and outlines what’s next for rail passengers across the North. Whether you're a rail enthusiast, transport professional, or just curious about the future of northern transport, this conversation is essential viewing.Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)
Apr 17, 2025 • 49min
80. Tornado - First Digitally Signalled Steam Locomotive on the Main Line!
We dive into the ground breaking test of A1 Steam Locomotive Trust’s Tornado, the world’s first steam locomotive equipped with digital signalling equipment, ready for the planned introduction of ETCS. We also cover Rail Minister Lord Hendy’s admission about using his mobile phone while driving a vintage bus, and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander’s first major speech. #TornadoSteam #DigitalSignalling #UKRail #RailwayNews #TransportUpdate #HeidiAlexander #LordHendy #SteamLocomotiveIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:38) Tornado digital tests(07:15) Lord Hendy admits using phone while driving bus(09:31) Ian Yeowart interview preview(17:41) Transport Secretary speech(22:33) Northern Trains’ Matt Rice interview preview(29:18) Thanks to Supporters, Super Thanks & Members(31:39) Railway News Round-Up(31:42) Northumberland Line five times better than expected(34:23) SWR nationalisation to cost £250m more?(38:22) White Rose station impasse(40:12) Cirencester Community Rail Project celebration(42:05) 2000 days since last Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline(43:28) The Quiz(46:31) The Greatest Gathering artist in residenceMembership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)Image Credits:- Footage of 60163 Tornado on Test - Courtesy of Network Rail- Official portrait of Rt Hon Heidi Alexander MP - Creative commons https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/- All images of Greatest Gathering inc Greatest Gathering logo as well as images of Tim O'Brien and his works - courtesy of Alstom (Works by Tim O'Brien are his copyright)
Apr 16, 2025 • 52min
75. How late are YOUR trains? Train performance data shown at stations
How late are YOUR trains?! Train performance data to be displayed at stations to ‘rebuild trust’ – but will it really do that?Rail Minister Lord Hendy doubts passengers will be as patient as they need to be with the time it may take to fix the railway’s problems…And we speak to former Chair of the Transport Select Committee Iain Stewart CBE about rail reform and the challenges aheadIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:52) Train performance data at stations(07:19) Lord Hendy doubts passengers will be patient enough(17:40) Iain Stewart CBE interview(37:04) Thanks to Supporters, Super Thanks & Members(38:22) Railway News Round-Up(38:25) CrossCountry Turbostars refurbishment(39:24) Arriva ACE contract for CrossCountry ticketing(41:21) Places for London Southwark housing development(41:50) Virgin seeks money for Eurostar challenge(41:13) Harris hawks brought in to tackle pigeons on Northern stations(45:47) The Quiz(49:31) RSSB training coursesMembership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)Image Credits (unless stated on images):ORR - Passenger Rail Performance October - December 2024Image of Manchester Metrolink - Shutterstock (Licensed)Image of Sheffield Supertram - Shutterstock (Licensed)Image of DLR train at West India Quay - Shutterstock (Licensed)Image of West Midlands Tram - Shutterstock (Licensed)Image of West Midlands Class 321 - Shutterstock (Licensed)Images of Maverick and Zulu (Hawks) - Courtesy of Northern Trains
Apr 16, 2025 • 52min
77. Thousands of rail jobs to be axed… including on HS2?
Thousands of rail jobs to be axed, including on HS2? We discuss the reports in the context of the Chancellor’s Spring StatementNetwork Rail and the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) lock horns over access to the networkAnd… Network Rail’s Head of Safety Martin Frobisher talks to us about the ORR’s concerns on railway structure safetyIn this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:44) Thousands of rail job cuts(09:35) Network Rail and ORR on access to the network(17:57) Teaser of Huw Merriman interview on new Liverpool to Manchester railway(22:33) Martin Frobisher interview on railway structure safety(34:07) New hourly rail service between Oxford and Bristol?(36:49) Thanks to supporters, Super Thanks and members(38:25) Railway News Round-up(38:28) East Midlands Railway solar panels at East Midlands Parkway station(39:30) Latest passenger and revenue figures(41:04) Global Centre of Rail Excellence showcase(42:37) ‘Scrapped HS2 leg set to be replaced with new rail line’(44:15) Southeastern £5 Advance tickets(45:28) The Quiz(48:31) Transport for London celebrates 25 yearsMembership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)Image Credits (unless stated on images):Picture of empty office - Shutterstock (Licensed)25th Anniversary of Transport for London - Courtesy of Transport for London
Apr 15, 2025 • 23min
On track for £15M of track renewals on the Cambrian Line & The future of ‘Local Railways’
Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the major £15 million track renewal project on the Cambrian railway line near Machynlleth. In this video, we dive into the impressive 17-day blockade work, featuring full track renewal, bridge repairs, and innovative equipment like the Trac Rail Transposers. We also explore the exciting 'Local Railway' initiative – a collaboration between Transport for Wales, Network Rail, and other partners aimed at transforming local rail services. Learn about the project's impact, the technology involved, and how this could shape the future of Britain’s railways under the new Great British Railways model.Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)Image Credits- Drone footage of Machynlleth & Barmouth - Storycatchers- Map of Cambrian Railways - Shared under Creative Commons https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by=sa/4.0/
Apr 11, 2025 • 21min
The killer you didn’t see coming… Shocking railway trespass near misses
Every year, thousands of people, especially teenagers, risk their lives by trespassing on railway tracks, often unaware of the deadly consequences. In this eye-opening video, we reveal shocking footage of near misses, showing the true dangers of railway trespassing. With trains reaching speeds of up to 125mph and overhead wires carrying 25,000 volts, stepping onto the tracks is far more dangerous than most people realise. Join us as we explore why this problem persists, the efforts being made to prevent it, and the real-life impact it has on lives and the railway system. Watch now to understand why trespassing on the tracks is never worth the risk.Membership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)Image Credits:Images of Trespass - courtesy of and approved by Network RailPantograph breakage - Network RailSign - Warning do not trespass on the railway - Shutterstock (licensed)Excerpt from film "Shattered Lives" - Network RailExcerpt from You v Train trespass education video - Network Rail
Apr 10, 2025 • 1h
79. Will HS2 trains cause a ‘sonic boom’ effect? AND Exclusive Rail Minister interview
We dive into the intriguing topic of whether HS2 trains could cause a ‘sonic boom’ as they speed through the UK’s high-speed rail network. High-speed trains in other countries, like Germany and Spain, have experienced this phenomenon when entering tunnels, but what about the UK's HS2 project? Join us as we explore the science behind sonic booms, the technology used to prevent them, and take a close look at the world-first Chilterns Tunnel south portal on HS2. We also have an exclusive interview with Rail Minister Lord Hendy at the launch of Siemens Mobility’s new £100m research site in Chippenham.In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:42) Sonic booms on HS2?(15:05) Siemens Mobility ground-breaking event(18:57) Exclusive interview with Lord Hendy(26:55) Railway Industry Association on railway supply chain challenges(33:57) Cambrian line track work preview(39:29) Trespass video preview(42:35) Thanks to supporters, Super Thanks and Members(43:57) Railway News Round-up(44:00) Network Rail £1.1 billion contracts(45:05) Grand Central contract extension(47:28) HS2 TBM completes tunnel drive(49:14) Keswick rejoins rail network!(50:28) Severn Valley Railway landslip update(51:25) Railway 200 Inspiration Train locations(52:47) The Quiz(57:16) Northern Engineer retires after 53 years of serviceMembership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)Image Credits:- Images of Trespass in the excerpt of Trespass video - courtesy of and approved by Network Rail- Footage of animation of TBM completing tunnel drive - Courtesy of HS2 Limited- George Stephenson statue goes to Locomotion - Courtesy of National Railway Museum- Northern Engineer retires about 53 years - Courtesy of Northern Trains
Apr 3, 2025 • 53min
78. £415 million for rail in the North… or government spin?
The Prime Minister announces £415m investment in railways in the north! But what’s the real story?Virgin Trains moves a step closer to challenging Eurostar… but it’s still a long way off being a done dealAnd… passenger numbers are increasing… but revenue is still lagging miles behind. We investigate.In this episode:(00:00) Intro(00:47) £415m for railways in the North(11:24) Virgin Trains challenge against Eurostar(20:39) Passenger revenue investigation(35:52) Thanks to Supporters, Super Thanks and Members(38:41) Railway News Round-up(38:46) Wareham level crossing campaign(40:33) LNER test run to London St Pancras(41:40) S&DR200 All Change spectacular(42:27) RIA Stations: Engines of Communities paper(44:12) Northern passenger assistance trial(46:06) The Quiz(50:29) Andrew Pennington Lifetime Achievement AwardMembership: If you want to see even more from Green Signals, including exclusive content, become a member and support the channel further too.YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@GreenSignals/joinPatreon -https://www.patreon.com/GreenSignalsGreen Signals: Website -http://www.greensignals.orgMerchandise - http://greensignals.etsy.comNewsletter -http://www.greensignals.org/#mailing-listFollow: X (Twitter) -https://twitter.com/greensignallers LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-signals-productions-ltdInstagram -https://instagram.com/greensignallersCredits:Presenters - Nigel Harris (@railnigel on X) & Richard Bowker CBE (@SRichardBowker). General Manager: Stef Foster (@stefatrail)Image Credits:Picture of Virgin Pendolino at Liverpool Lime Street - Shutterstock (Licensed)Various screengrabs of Government website (No 10 Press Release)Image of LNER Azuma London St Pancras - Courtesy of LNERPicture of Andrew Pennington winning lifetime achievement award - Courtesy of CIRO
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