Following the installation of a new PA system at all stations along the Matlock to Derby line, passengers travelling on this route are now benefitting from improved information about their train service.
As part of a £10 million investment programme to improve station facilities, East Midlands Trains has rolled out the new micro-PA system to all seven stations on the line (Matlock, Matlock Bath, Cromford, Whatstandwell, Ambergate, Belper and Duffield).
The system, which is driven directly by East Midlands Trains’ Customer Information Control Centre in Derby, means that passengers will receive real-time information on train services on the route.
Departing trains are automatically announced six and three minutes before departure, meaning that passengers will have clear, concise and up-to-date information on their train service.
Rob Mason, Passenger Information Manager for East Midlands Trains, said:
“Whilst we have made many improvements on this line, including refurbished trains and a better timetable, we know that from feedback that our passengers want access to better information about how their train service is running.
“The introduction of our new PA system, which has replaced the outdated system previously used on this route, will help to ensure that all passengers know exactly when their train is due to arrive or depart.
“Feedback so far has been very positive, and we hope that this will help to deliver a much improved service to our passengers.”
Councillor Garry Purdy, Chair of the Derwent Valley Line Community Rail Partnership, added:
“Getting improved passenger information has been a key objective for the Community Rail Partnership, so I am very pleased that this new information system has been installed.
“I have heard the announcements at Cromford telling me that my train was on time and also at Belper informing me of a few minutes delay.
“I am sure that the new real time information system will give passengers extra confidence in the rail service, especially on the odd occasions that there are delays”.
In addition, new digital departure screens have been installed on both platforms at Belper station, which is one of the busiest stations on the route.
Another recent improvement on the route is the introduction of an upgraded solar power help-point at Matlock station.
