Wales and Western – Possession Optimisation

Possession Optimisation Programme: Powering the Future of Rail Delivery

We’re revolutionising how we plan and deliver works on the operational railway through the Possession Optimisation Programme—a bold, tech-powered initiative that’s making engineering access safer, smarter, and more efficient than ever.

Whether you’re trackside or behind the scenes, this programme is designed to give you better tools, clearer visibility, and more time to focus on what matters most—working safely and effectively.

And with other Network Rail regions starting to explore the approach, there’s real potential for this to become a game-changer across the network.

PodFlo: Possession Delivery Reinvented

We’re proud to be at the forefront of transforming possession delivery across Wales & Western with PodFlo—our very own digital platform that’s reshaping how we manage engineering access on the railway.

What began as a digital PICOP pack has evolved into a comprehensive, safety-first delivery system, developed hand-in-hand with our frontline colleagues to make it truly fit for purpose. PodFlo is more than just an app—it’s a safer, smarter, and more connected way to deliver possessions.

What We’re Delivering:

  • Safety-First Design: Real-time updates and built-in workflows reduce irregularities and keep everyone informed and protected.
  • PICOP Packs: PICOP Packs: Emailed to frontline staff involved in safety-critical activities during possessions.
  • Digital Workflows: Streamlining the communication of safety actions and records. From RT3198/3199 forms to line-clear verification and WIREs, everything is managed in-app—no more paper, fewer phone calls.
  • Offline Capability: Possession delivery continues even without signal, ensuring resilience in the field.

The Impact So Far:

  • Over 25,000 digital PICOP packs issued in just 8 weeks
  • More than 6,000 users, including 60+ work delivery groups and 300+ resourcers

Built by Us, Backed by You

From shadow pilots and desktop exercises to live trials, our teams have shaped PodFlo every step of the way. Your feedback has driven improvements, and your involvement is helping us roll out safely and effectively across the region. It’s not just a tool—it’s a movement.

Ready to Explore?

Find out more about PodFlo—our award-winning digital platform that’s transforming how we deliver possessions across the railway!

Railworks: Real-Time Coordination, Smarter Delivery

We’re proud to lead the way with Railworks—our flagship app for coordinating construction projects across the Wales & Western region. Designed with planners and field teams in mind, Railworks bridges the gap between office and trackside with real-time access to project data.

Planners input project details directly from the office, and field teams can view and act on them via the mobile app. It’s fast, intuitive, and built to keep everyone aligned.

The latest updates include:

  • End-of-shift reporting: A streamlined, pre-filled system that replaces texts and emails.
  • Live dashboards: Red/green indicators give Capital Delivery Directors instant visibility into progress.
  • Integrated CRAs: Change Request Applications are now fully embedded in Railworks for a more robust access plan and future-ready process.

And we’re not stopping there—real-time progress reporting from construction sites is just around the corner.

Curious about how we’re transforming rail project coordination?

Railworks See how real-time updates, smarter planning, and streamlined reporting are changing the game across Wales & Western.

Community-Driven Development

From daily drop-in sessions to demos at events like Rail Live, the programme thrives on feedback. Whether you’re testing in staging, joining briefings, or mentoring others, your voice shapes the future of rail delivery.

Questions or feedback? Reach out to us at WalesandWesternDigitalTeam@networkrail.co.uk

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