A milestone event aimed at shaping the future of rail innovation in the Southwest took place in Swindon last Thursday (26th). The event, organised by the Western Gateway in partnership with D2 and local Swindon business, The Future Smiths, marked a significant step forward in the implementation of the Western Gateway 2050 Rail Vision.
The aim of this inaugural event was to unite industry experts and influential businesses from across the region, as well as innovators and decision makers, and facilitate discussions on improving rail infrastructure and cost efficiency in the area.
“We have the pleasure of working with some of the most creative minds in Swindon and Wiltshire. I really see ourselves as champions of what they do.” Said Simone Ward-Baptiste, Co-Founder of The Future Smiths. “As part of that work, we’re keen to connect them to the people that matter most in their sector. That’s why it’s important that we host events like the Rail Innovation Series, alongside partners like D2 and The Western Gateway.”
The event was attended by influential figures, including Frank Anatole, Principal Architect of Network Rail, The Deputy Director of the Western Gateway James Cooke, as well as representatives from Innovate UK and Transport for Wales.
Local MP the Rt Hon Sir Robert Buckland was also in attendance and emphasized the pivotal role of an efficient rail system in achieving environmental goals and enhancing productivity. He said: “I was delighted to attend this exciting event. It really highlighted the importance of collaborative working and the benefits of bringing together industry and decision makers to create delivery opportunities. A fully functioning and efficient rail system is essential if we are to reach our carbon emission targets and improve our below average productivity and this has been the focus for the Western Gateway Rail Vision 2050.”
Dan Smith, Head of Engineering at D2, also commented: “D2 Rail provide project management services for major infrastructure projects and for a company like ours, building a team in Swindon to facilitate our growth was of course the natural choice. As someone who grew up here, I also know the challenges and the opportunities of the area. It’s great to see the Knowledge Quarter getting the regeneration it deserves and to see the area start to come to life again. This evening’s event was all about bringing together a community of designers, manufacturers and suppliers so we can all work together to understand the vision for the Western Gateway and how we can support it.”
Deputy Director of the Western Gateway, James Cooke, highlighted their commitment to cost-effective delivery and high-quality design standards. The event coincided with the formal endorsement of the Global Centre for Rail Excellence Vision, demonstrating the organisation’s determination to propel its vision forward.