Hima-Sella and Funkwerk ITK have been awarded a contract to deliver a 53-station Customer Information System by Spring 2009.

The contract combines two separate orders, one from train operator Northern Rail whose trains service the stations, and one from Thales UK, one of Network Rail’s telecommunications framework contractors who were selected after a formal tender process.

Originally procured by Northern Rail in 2007, the scope of the contract includes both final engineering and delivery of the CIS solution and work involves replacing the existing ATOS Origin Local Information Control Centre (LICC) system based in Leeds, and Ke Tech Ditra long line public address technology at all stations. The system will consist of a dual redundant server suite installed at Newton Heath, connected to a Station Interface Unit (SIU) at each station and connected through the existing, secure IT network. The system will be controlled by two workstations located at Northern Rail’s operations room in Leeds. This architecture will allow operational personnel to provide real time passenger information and automated public address announcements over the network using pre recorded wav file technology.

To ensure cost-effective project delivery, Hima-Sella will train Thales UK commissioning engineers to install and commission its SIU equipment. On completion and following handover, Northern Rail will seek to award a separate maintenance contract for the system.

Hima-Sella account manager Chris Elliott commented, “This project is another success in our joint venture, demonstrating the benefits of having both project delivery and engineering expertise based in the UK. We’re looking forward to working closely with Northern Rail, Thales UK and Network Rail to complete this project."

Northern Rail project manager Don Jary commented, “Providing our customers with clear and up-to-date information is imperative and something we value highly. The new Customer Information System will help ensure hassle free journeys for customers through our stations.”