Train name unites c2c and Network Rail

Rail Minister Derek Twigg today (6 September) joined c2c managing Director Mark Hopwood and guests as signaller Darren Smith named one of c2c's modern Electrostar trains Upminster IECC to mark the close working relationship between c2c and Network Rail that has, in the past eighteen months, consistently delivered some of the top punctuality figures in the country.

Upminster IECC (Integrated Electrical Control Centre) was built in 1994 and is the nerve centre that controls all c2c's services. c2c controllers work alongside those of Network Rail to ensure the smooth running of the service, manage any problems that arise and take the necessary steps to return services to normal as soon as possible.

Managing Director Mark Hopwood said: There are two parts of the rail industry that have to work together to provide a service. C2c provides and maintains the trains and is responsible for the provision of drivers. Network Rail are responsible for the track and signalling. In many parts of the country the two controls work form separate locations. On c2c they work together in the same building.

This has resulted in the levels of punctuality that c2c customers enjoy today. In November 2004 the average punctuality for the year topped 90% for the first time and has remained above that level ever since. Indeed over the past 12 months c2c has consistently jockeyed for top place not just in the southeast punctuality league but in the country as a whole. Just to remind everyone of the sort of figures we are talking about, over the past 4 weeks 95.03% of our trains reached their target, giving average for the year to date 93.23%.

I am delighted that today one of our c2c trains will be called after the IECC or Integrated Electrical Control Centre here at Upminster. This title - which might seem a bit of a mouthful - encapsulates our working relationship with the emphasis on integration: Network Rail and c2c Controllers work alongside each other, so when there are problems actions can be quickly agreed followed by instant decisions.

Rail Minister Derek Twigg added his endorsement of what had been achieved through integrated working by saying:

The Government has made it a priority to see performance on the railways improved. Punctuality has been at its highest level in the past 12 months. The integration of c2c and Network rail staff have helped make this possible. In naming the train Upminster IECC staff and passengers will be reminded of this success.

Network Rail's Route Commercial Manager, Phil Heath, said: We have made great strides towards improving performance over the last 18 months and it is a tribute to the excellent working relationship that has developed between Network Rail and c2c. It is fitting to name this train after the Upminster IECC that is the hub of the improved performance we have seen in recent months. I look forward to seeing the continued improvements Network Rail and c2c's hard work will bring passengers in the future.