Following the installation of a new PA systemat all stations along the Matlock to Derby line, passengers travellingon this route are now benefitting from improved information about theirtrain service.

As part of a £10 million investment programmeto improve station facilities, East Midlands Trains has rolled out thenew micro-PA system to all seven stations on the line (Matlock, MatlockBath, Cromford, Whatstandwell, Ambergate, Belper and Duffield). The system,which is driven directly by East Midlands Trains’ Customer InformationControl Centre in Derby, means that passengers will receive real-time informationon train services on the route.  Departing trains are automaticallyannounced six and three minutes before departure, meaning that passengerswill have clear, concise and up-to-date information on their train service.

Rob Mason, Passenger Information Managerfor East Midlands Trains, said:  “Whilst we have made many improvementson this line, including refurbished trains and a better timetable, we knowthat from feedback that our passengers want access to better informationabout how their train service is running.

“The introduction of our new PA system,which has replaced the outdated system previously used on this route, willhelp to ensure that all passengers know exactly when their train is dueto arrive or depart.  Feedback so far has been very positive,and we hope that this will help to deliver a much improved service to ourpassengers.”

Councillor Garry Purdy, Chair of the DerwentValley Line Community Rail Partnership, added: “Getting improved passengerinformation 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 wason time and also at Belper informing me of a few minutes delay.  Iam sure that the new real time information system will give passengersextra confidence in the rail service, especially on the odd occasions thatthere are delays”. 

In addition, new digital departure screenshave been installed on both platforms at Belper station, which is one ofthe busiest stations on the route.  Another recent improvement onthe route is the introduction of an upgraded solar power help-point atMatlock station.