What have been the major developments in the rail industry in the last few weeks? We take a look at some of the most interesting stories below.

Hurricane Gonzalo causes havoc

Earlier this week (October 21st), the residual winds of hurricane Gonzalo blew across Britain causing havoc on the roads, rails and runways. The tornado originated in Bermuda, where it was responsible for widespread damage and power blackouts.

Although the UK wasn’t hit with the full force of the hurricane, we were subjected to gusts of up to 65mph - winds strong enough to knock people off their feet.  

Poor conditions caused massive delays to commuter services on the railways, especially in the south of England. In south-east London, signalling issues led to delays, particularly for routes passing through Sydenham, which affected passengers using journeys undertaken by London Overground Southern  and Thameslink.

Broken-down trains were also an issue for many across Britain, with an immobile freight train causing havoc between Crewe and Shrewsbury and an unmoving train near Radlett in Hertfordshire being behind delays of 40 minutes for services travelling to London and Luton.

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “Strong winds, torrential rain and large quantities of fallen leaves are making conditions difficult on the railway today. Just like motorists on the roads adapt their driving style to the conditions, train drivers are having to take extra care accelerating and braking to avoid overshooting platforms or signals.”

Network Rail revealed Exeter flood prevention plans

On October 21st, Network Rail unveiled plans to protect Devon and Cornwall’s main rail line from flooding - an issue that has resulted in four weeks of disruption in the last two years alone, leading to delays and closures.

The prevention plans chosen by the organisation involve digging out three weirs and dredging the River Exe to improve the flow of water.

A new culvert will also be built to divert floodwater should disaster strike and new embankments will be constructed to reduce the likelihood of the river bursting its banks.

Tim Jones, from the Devon and Cornwall Business Council, welcomed the plans, but described them as “long overdue”. He added that without these measures, disruption will continue to happen until the investment - worth £15 million - is completed.

Joanna Grew, from Network Rail, said: "We are now working with the council and other stakeholders to gather their views on our proposal and will keep the local community updated on our progress."

National Rail holographic assistants deemed ‘spooky’

Holographic National Rail assistants, installed at several stations across the country including London and Leeds, are causing a bit of a stir among passengers, with some deeming them to be “creepy” and “spooky”.

According to the Guardian, the assistant gestures for you to come close and then advises you to not take luggage up the escalators and instead use the lifts if possible. Although ‘Louise’ is supposed to be helpful, she’s having the opposite effect with some people.

One Twitter user told the newspaper: “@guardian I can't believe this is actually a 'thing'!! Thought it was just me. Yes, they're terrifying! They talk when you least expect it!”

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