On Monday 4^th March, Porterbrook were headline sponsors of the Peloton Rail Scotland Conference, an event bringing together key industry stakeholders to explore ways of delivering the best possible rail services for the people of Scotland.

To begin the day, Porterbrook CEO Mary Grant participated in a panel discussion alongside Bill Reeve, Director of Rail at Transport Scotland and Alan Ross, Director of Engineering and Asset Management at Network Rail.

The conversation centred around the need for a unified approach to drive growth and meet the evolving needs of Scotland’s rail network. Mary also emphasised the importance of long-term planning to ensure sustained value for rail.

During the session, the panel discussed how a robust supply chain is essential for a reliable and efficient railway, with Porterbrook’s 49% stake in Kilmarnock-based Brodie Engineering highlighted as an example of how we can contribute to Scotland’s plans for growth.

Later in the day, Porterbrook’s Head of Digital Engineering Services Chris Beales joined colleagues from ScotRail and Network Rail to consider the benefits of embracing digital technology. This included discussions on modernising assets and the introduction of remote condition monitoring on fleets to enhance efficiencies, and increase safety and reliability.

Porterbrook’s work with Network Rail in converting ex-passenger Class 153 vehicles into visual inspection units was used as an example of how embracing digitalisation can deliver significant safety benefits for the industry.