Systems integration specialist Ashby-based Hima-Sella, UK agent for Funkwerk Information Technologies Karlsfeld GmbH, has completed improvements to the Customer Information System (CIS) at Harrogate station for Northern Rail. Hima-Sella delivered new Long Line Public Address and information screens as part of Northern Rail's long-term commitment to improve customer information for rail passengers at all its stations.

Harrogate station was previously served by a standalone control solution for CIS. This project involved connecting Harrogate to the Funkwerk system at Newton Heath and Northern Rail's Central Operations Room in York. A Station Interface Unit (SIU) connects the station to the CIS severs via the existing secure IT network, allowing operational station staff to issue real time passenger information and automated public address announcements, using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology.

Chris Elliott, Hima-Sella's UK account manager for Funkwerk commented, "The successful delivery of this contract demonstrates Hima-Sella's continued success in working in partnership with Funkwerk. We look forward to working with Northern Rail in the future to expand and improve their CIS systems further."

It is hoped that 2011 will bring further station enhancement schemes. Hima-Sella currently has a CIS service contract until 2013 with Northern Rail, for third line support services including 24/7 telephone helpdesk, emergency engineers and support required for annual planned preventative maintenance activities and the two major timetable changes each year. Hima-Sella supports Northern Rail's operational personnel and nominated first line maintainer, responsible for day-to-day maintenance of station-based SIU equipment.