York student's rodent-deterrent device saves Network Rail £1m

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 06:08 · Archive

A 17-year-old York College student designed a device to stop rodents damaging signal boxes, saving Network Rail over £1 million in delay costs.

Jackson Hall, a 17-year-old T Level student at York College, designed a device to stop rodents and insects from damaging Network Rail signal boxes. The problem had repeatedly taken sections of track out of service, causing significant disruption.

Hall developed the solution during a work placement with AGH Engineering, a York-based company approached by Network Rail to address the issue. After a site visit, he used 3D scanning and computer-aided design software to create a prototype at the company's office. His initial polycarbonate model was refined into a second version that successfully prevented damage.

Hall said the device makes a difference because rodent or insect damage to even one signal box would create a short circuit stopping trains running across miles of track. Adam Wood, principal at AGH Engineering, confirmed two screens have already been installed in signal boxes, with 63 more planned. The solution has saved Network Rail more than £1 million in delay costs and improved AGH's standing in the rail industry.

How it is being reported

• York student designs new device to save Network Rail £1 millionJackson Hall, a 17-year-old T Level student from York College, designed a device to stop rodents from damaging signal boxes.Gazette & Herald (Malton) · 21 Oct, 05:00
• York student designs new device to save Network Rail £1 millionJackson Hall, a 17-year-old T Level student from York College, designed a device to stop rodents from damaging signal boxes.York Press · 21 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Jackson Hall · York College · AGH Engineering · Network Rail · York · Leeds

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