DB Cargo UK has officially opened a new state-of-the-art training centre at its headquarters in Doncaster to prepare its workforce for the upcoming introduction of the European Train Control System (ETCS).
The new facility features a Class 66 full cab simulator, six ultra-light simulators, training rooms, and breakout areas. It has been designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating energy-efficient technologies and recycled materials.
DB Cargo UK’s chief operating officer Neil Ethell said the new facility would deliver critically important ETCS training to drivers, groundstaff, maintainers and engineers alike. He added: “At DB Cargo UK we have more than 600 drivers, more than 400 groundstaff and over 600 engineers, so it’s fair to say that this centre, and the others we have developed with funding from Network Rail, will play a pivotal role in training a new generation of rail staff.”
“Doncaster has a long and rich association with the rail industry, so it is entirely fitting that we chose our headquarters in the city to host one of our new training centres of excellence.
Ed Akers, industry partnership director at the East Coast Digital Programme, said: “The success of ECDP depends on drivers, groundstaff, maintainers and engineers all being equipped for next generation’ railway operations. Facilities like this one in Doncaster are critical to enabling people to flourish and enjoy confidence in new ways of working. I thank our DB Cargo partners for all their efforts in making this happen.”
“Digital in-cab signalling will enable rail freight to operate more efficiently and reliably, contribute to its growth and help reduce carbon emissions.
The training centre, funded by Network Rail, is part of a broader initiative to prepare the UK rail industry for the transition to ETCS. DB Cargo UK has also invested in a training facility in Wembley and a mobile training unit to reach employees across the country.
