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As the West Midlands Metro network expanded, the existing traction power of SCADA and Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) infrastructure was becoming increasingly constrained by obsolescence.
The legacy architecture had originally been deployed with dual-server redundancy but had degraded to a single-server operating environment, creating a potential single point of failure. Existing RTUs were based on legacy PLC platforms with limited communication capabilities and restricted integration options.
At the same time, the network required:
Any upgrade programme also needed to be delivered within a live transport environment where service disruption was not an option.
iconsys developed and delivered a phased lifecycle modernisation programme designed to evolve the infrastructure without requiring wholesale replacement.
The programme included:
SCADA Modernisation
The existing SCADA platform was replaced with a fully redundant architecture designed to improve resilience and operational continuity.
Key enhancements included:
The new environment preserved operator familiarity while significantly improving functionality and maintainability.
RTU and Control System Upgrades
Legacy RTUs were progressively replaced with modern automation controllers through a carefully managed rollout programme.
Each upgrade was:
The upgraded RTUs incorporated:
Multi-Vendor Integration
A key requirement throughout the programme was the ability to integrate equipment supplied by multiple technology providers.
iconsys delivered an open and scalable architecture capable of supporting equipment and systems from:
This approach eliminated dependence on a single supplier and provided a platform capable of supporting future technology evolution.
Supporting Network Expansion
As West Midlands Metro expanded its operational footprint, new substations and traction power assets were integrated into the centralised control environment.
The architecture was deliberately designed to accommodate future growth, ensuring new infrastructure could be incorporated without fundamental redesign of the existing system.
An Ongoing Modernisation Journey
Unlike a conventional upgrade project with a defined start and finish date, the West Midlands Metro programme represents an ongoing infrastructure evolution strategy.
As the network continues to expand and operational requirements evolve, iconsys remains actively involved in the modernisation, integration and future development of the traction power and control systems.
Working alongside several delivery partners, iconsys continues to support:
This continued engagement ensures the control infrastructure evolves in line with network growth, operational demands and emerging technology requirements, protecting previous investments while enabling future development.
Long-Term Infrastructure Partnership
The West Midlands Metro programme demonstrates the value of lifecycle-based infrastructure modernisation.
Rather than relying on isolated asset replacement projects, the network has benefited from a phased strategy that continuously evolves operational technology while maintaining service continuity.
Through successive projects delivered under multiple framework and delivery partners, iconsys has established a trusted role supporting the long-term development of one of the UK’s most significant light rail networks.
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