sector

Railways connect society together and enable economic growth in the regions they serve.

Accelerate innovation in the UK rail ecosystem – addressing technology and market barriers – bringing supply chain and challenge owners closer together.

Alan Peters

Ecosystem Director – Rail and Stations

A person walks along a platform next to a train in a large, modern railway station, with a curved roof featuring intricate ironwork.

Passenger experience

Inclusive innovation is a lead priority as Bristol Temple Meads becomes the UK’s first ‘Station Innovation Zone’. In partnership with Network Rail and Innovate UK we’re helping the station test new technologies designed to improve how passengers experience the station. Discover more about the journey so far.

A person with a backpack and red suitcase walks along a train platform beside a stationary train, while another person walks in the opposite direction.

Report / Station Innovation Zone Playbook and Strategic Guide

A Playbook and Strategic Guide that supports stakeholders through the process of developing innovation at stations and how to set up and run a Station Innovation Zone.

CONNECTED INTELLIGENCE

Connected intelligence at Connected Places Catapult in rail integrates data analytics, IoT, and AI to optimise rail systems, enhancing safety, efficiency, and passenger experience through smart infrastructure and predictive maintenance solutions.

News / Rail Maintenance AI Tech Developed in the UK Goes Global

Technology that enables real-time infrastructure monitoring and predictive maintenance has been commercialised by Hitachi Rail following UK-led research and development.

CLIMATE ACTION

As part of the wider West Midlands Innovation Accelerator designed to bolster the region’s innovation and R&D capability and capacity to spark commercial growth and investment. Connected Places Catapult has launched the Clean Futures Accelerator for SMEs in the West Midlands. Learn more about the challenges and our work.

A teacher and students working on a project

Podcast / Inclusive innovation in the West Midlands

In this episode we explore some of the latest thinking on inclusive innovation and what it means for places – specifically one of the UK’s most diverse and vibrant city regions: the West Midlands.

The art of rail innovation

News

Accessibility innovators chosen for Bristol Temple Meads testbed

Two technology specialists selected for six-month trials as part of the Station Innovation Zone.
A logistics hub featuring trucks, shipping containers, a cargo ship, and an airplane in flight during sunset serves as the perfect backdrop for the TRIG 2022 event.
Opportunity

Expression of Interest: TRIG Advisory Board

The Department for Transport (DfT) and Connected Places Catapult are inviting expressions of interest for the brand new TRIG Advisory Board. The Advisory Board will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the TRIG programme, by providing strategic guidance, sector insights and industry expertise.
Article

Meet the Innovator creating 3D printed concrete structures

Aiming for profit with social purpose, Natalie Wadley is developing rail and water infrastructure and aims to tackle homelessness by building affordable houses.