South Eastern Railway is set to expand a pioneering programme that turns passenger trains into mobile inspection platforms, covering more routes and trains across South-East London, Kent, and parts of East Sussex. The initiative is a collaboration between Southeastern, the passenger operator, and Network Rail Kent Route, the infrastructure provider, aimed at improving performance across the network.

Earlier this year, a pilot programme fitted thermal imaging cameras on a small number of Class 707 ‘City Beam’ trains. These cameras successfully detected 41 overheating incidents and helped prevent over 9,000 minutes of delays for passengers. Following the success of the trial, the technology is now being installed on 20 Class 375 ‘Electrostar’ Main Line trains in addition to the 12 Class 707 units already equipped. This expansion makes South Eastern Railway the first operator in the UK to permanently install on-board cameras on this scale.

The thermal imaging cameras identify ‘hot spots’ along the rail network and quickly relay this information to asset engineers. Engineers can then assess whether repairs are needed and decide on the required equipment and staffing, all without the need for physical site visits. This helps resolve issues before they can disrupt journeys, improving both safety and efficiency.

Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said:

“This Government is fundamentally reforming how our railways are run, creating a network that works better for the people and freight using it. The cutting-edge technology South Eastern Railway is installing on its trains is key to achieving this and should serve as an example of the kind of smart investments we’re making as publicly owned rail companies work to improve services. These upgrades will prevent disruption and reduce delays, supporting local jobs, growth, and housing as part of the Government’s plan deliver an efficient and reliable railway.”

Dan Paris, South Eastern Railway’s Fleet Maintenance Director, added:

“Our integrated railway is using train-borne cameras to provide the early warnings we need to identify and fix problems before they cause disruption for our customers. The cameras on the City Beams are monitoring our London Metro routes and now with a new set of cameras being added to 20 of our Class 375 trains we can look out for any issues on a much wider area across East Sussex and Kent. I’m confident that they will really help us in our drive to improve performance and reduce delays.”

Emily Kent, Director of One Big Circle, the company providing the technology, said:

"It's been fantastic to work with South Eastern Railway to deliver this cutting-edge technology onboard the fleet. The can-do spirit and collaboration of all involved has ensured faster, more effective outcomes that will bring real benefits to passengers and staff across the network."

In addition to the main cameras, five of the Class 375 trains will also feature under-body cameras to monitor track slipperiness and the condition of the conductor rail and shoes, which transfer electricity to power the trains. These assessments will provide further improvements, particularly during adverse weather conditions, helping to maintain reliable services for passengers across the network.

Image SouthEastern Trains