DB Cargo UK has begun major mobilisation works at its Toton Traction Maintenance Depot in preparation for the arrival of the first locomotives due to be retrofitted with the European Train Control System (ETCS) this July.
The project will see nine Class 66 locomotives fitted with ETCS by March 2026, requiring significant modifications across the Toton site. Inside the main engineering shed, four lanes have been designated for the retrofit works. To accommodate new cranes, the existing heating system is being removed from the roof.
At the north end yard, new track infrastructure is being laid to support the construction of a second load bank, which will be used to test locomotive engines. A new fully-automated wash plant is also being installed to replace the current manual operation housed in the main shed.
Elsewhere, vegetation clearance is underway adjacent to the oil tanks near the main crossing to make way for modular office accommodation and a new ERTMS Mobile Training Facility. This clearance work was scheduled to avoid disruption to local birdlife during the nesting season.
The new office units will host staff from Siemens Mobility, who are working alongside DB Cargo UK to deliver the retrofit contract. Siemens is the delivery partner for the East Coast Digital Programme, tasked with designing and installing its Trainguard 200 Onboard unit across freight fleets.
James Bodill, Traction and Rolling Stock Maintenance Manager at Toton, is coordinating the site preparation. He said there is growing anticipation as work ramps up.
“We’re working to a challenging timetable while ensuring that the mobilisation work does not impact other key engineering and maintenance activities on site,” he said.
A recruitment drive is also underway to support the expansion, with the new contract expected to create 24 additional roles for engineers and maintainers.
“This year the UK is celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway,” said James. “Here at Toton, we’re proud of the role we’re playing in the rollout of ERTMS in the UK, which we hope will inspire the next generation of pioneering young rail talent.”
Share on:
