Half a century ago, railways were widely regarded as an obsolete and loss-making 19th century technology which would gradually wither and disappear. The development of high speed passenger trains, heavy haul freight and high-capacity urban services have helped to change that perception, along with regulatory reform and the restructuring of many railway companies. 

Today there is widespread political and public recognition that rail needs to play a bigger role in the transport mix. Global economic drivers such as urbanisation, globalisation, and environmental awareness provide huge opportunities for the rail sector, offering the prospect of massive growth in traffic over the next 50 years.

Reflecting on recent developments around the world, Chris Jackson looks at what the rail sector needs to do in order to meet that demand. This means focusing on what railways do best, and continuing to develop the core technologies to deliver huge increases in capacity, as well as a better quality of service. 

Innovation in infrastructure and vehicles must be matched by advances in train control and information systems. Many research projects are underway in different countries, and there is a greater exchange of knowledge at an international level.

To make the most of the emerging opportunities, the structure and regulation of railway organisations must continue to evolve, in order to match these technical advances with the demands of a changing market. 

About the speaker

Christopher M A Jackson, BSc (Hons) FCILT AIRSE

Chris Jackson is editor-in-chief of the Railway Gazette Group at DVV Media UK Ltd, and Editor of Railway Gazette International. 

Chris has been editor of Railway Gazette International since April 2006, having served as Deputy Editor from 1991. He joined the magazine in April 1982, and held a variety of posts including production editor and assistant editor. He has also acted as editor of Metro Report, managing editor of Rail Business Intelligence and webmaster for www.railwaygazette.com. He was named editor-in-chief of the Railway Gazette Group in 2007. 

Brought up in south London, Chris studied Business Administration and Transport Planning (Combined Honours) at the University of Aston in Birmingham. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Transport & Logistics, an Affiliate of the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers and a member of the UK’s Railway Study Association. He has travelled extensively during his career, visiting and reporting on railway developments in more than 45 countries. 

Programme for IET lecture

18:00  Arrival and registration. Tea and coffee will be served.

18:30  Lecture begins

19.30  Q&A

20:00  Networking drinks reception

Reasons to attend

A fascinating lecture for anyone interested in the evolution of the railways, their role in wider society, and the future of this important transport system.