RIN Derby (11 September 2025) had a real buzz from the moment doors opened. As Matt put it, “there was an air of excitement in the Derby Arena just before kick off,” and that set the tone for a morning of proper conversations rather than casual browsing.
For us, the win was quality over quantity. Tony summed it up well: “footfall could have been better, but the engaging clients was really good.” We had people coming over with specific projects to talk through TM plans, permits, temporary signals, lane closures and how to keep programmes.
Debbie called the day “very vibrant, friendly and informative,” and it showed. We were able to get the Paragon message across clearly, while learning more about adjacent sectors and how we can help them deliver effectively. Those chats have now turned into follow-ups so nothing goes cold.
The team energy made a difference. “Exhibiting is great—I really enjoyed it,” Matt said. “My colleagues are amazing and I’m very lucky to say that! And there are opportunities out there; I’ve just got to go get them and not be afraid of putting myself in the deep end.” That mindset mirrors our approach to planning: get close to the problem early, make the plan clear, and execute confidently.
Experience also keeps us grounded. Tony reminded us that “years of experience from these events not every event is the same, but grab what you can from your time there.” Next time we’ll dial up pre-event outreach, bring extra collateral, and keep the momentum with same-week calls and site visits.
Debbie’s final comment ties it together: “people were so friendly, and I learned a lot about different businesses and sectors, Matt helped me understand the rail sector more and what teams need to undertake their work.” That’s exactly why we show up: to listen, refine, and bring better planning to the next job.
If we met at RIN Derby, we’ll be in touch to move things forward. If we missed each other, we’d still love to help map a clear, compliant TM plan that keeps your programme on track.
Paragon Traffic Management — Safety by Choice, Not by Chance.
We are proud to announce that we are now officially RISQS Audited, a significant milestone that reflects both our commitment to quality and the ongoing hard work of our entire team.
What does RISQS Audited mean? RISQS (Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme) is the recognised supplier assurance scheme for the UK rail industry. To achieve “audited” status, suppliers undergo an in-depth audit against rigorous standards covering quality management, health and safety, and environmental management giving buyers confidence that the businesses they work with meet the highest levels of compliance and professionalism.
For Paragon, this is more than just another accreditation. It reflects who we are: a business built on trust, transparency and doing things the right way, every time.
Why does this matter for our clients? In an industry where delays and compliance failures can have major knock-on effects, our RISQS Audited status gives our rail and infrastructure partners peace of mind. When choosing Paragon, clients know they are working with a team that understands the specific challenges of rail traffic management from securing the right permits and closures to ensuring every project is delivered to exacting standards.
Raising the bar — together Achieving audited status was very much a team effort and we are especially proud to have passed our first RISQS audit with no major non-conformances, a rare achievement. It’s a testament to the systems, processes and culture we’ve built at Paragon and to the dedication of our staff, both on the ground and behind the scenes.
What’s next? As a business, we are always focused on moving forward. Our RISQS Audited status is just one part of our wider commitment to continuous improvement and we will be using the insights from the audit to push our standards even higher over the coming year.
If you’re looking for a trusted, rail-ready traffic management partner — one that combines 24-hour quote turnaround, in-house permitting and CAD, dedicated project management, and seamless national delivery we’re here to help.
Take a look at our latest rail articles and updates [link to articles/newsletter section], or get in touch to discuss your next project.
Delivering traffic management for rail infrastructure isn’t just about road signs and cones — it’s about understanding the scale, complexity, and critical safety measures required to support some of the UK’s most high-pressure, time-sensitive works. And when it comes to long-term collaboration, few projects illustrate this better than our 4-year involvement in the Midland Mainline Electrification Programme from Kettering to Wigston.
Reliable Support Across 4 Years of Rail Works
As a trusted supplier to one of the UK’s leading electrification contractors, we provided end-to-end traffic management services to support a major upgrade of the Midland Mainline on behalf of Network Rail. From initial planning and permitting to boots-on-the-ground implementation, our team delivered consistency, responsiveness, and technical expertise across every stage of the project.
This long-standing partnership included:
Site surveys and planning meetings
Design and production of traffic management drawings
Permit acquisition and liaison with local authorities
Day and night access traffic management
Support for abnormal access blockades
Protection for staff during critical outage works
One of the most complex and rewarding moments of the programme was the delivery of the Wigston MPATS Substation — the largest of its kind in the country. Our team also supported a 9-day Christmas blockade that ensured safe and uninterrupted access for works in the Radlett area, reinforcing our ability to deliver even during peak seasonal pressures.
Restoring Confidence in Traffic Management Providers
In a sector where reliability and safety can’t be compromised, we’re proud to have earned the trust of rail professionals through hard work, transparency, and real delivery. As shared in the client’s words, our involvement helped rebuild faith in traffic management providers after several poor industry experiences — a reminder of the importance of working with a supplier who truly understands the nuances of railway access, blockades, and collaboration with local authorities.
“The team at Paragon have restored my faith in traffic management suppliers after several negative experiences with others in the industry.”
This testimonial speaks volumes for our commitment to not only meeting deadlines and regulatory requirements, but also to building lasting relationships grounded in trust and results.
Why Rail Project Managers Trust Paragon
We know the challenges you face — tight timelines, public safety, permitting headaches, and the need for total reliability. Our dedicated team works closely with project coordinators and stakeholders across the UK rail network, providing a complete package:
24-Hour Quote Turnaround
In-House CAD, Permits & Licensing
National Coverage with Depot Support
Direct Access to Your Dedicated Project Manager
RISQS Verified Supplier
Whether it’s an urgent blockade, long-term infrastructure upgrade, or a last-minute access solution, we have the experience and infrastructure to deliver safely, efficiently, and at scale.
Let’s Talk Rail Traffic Management
If you’re planning rail works and need a traffic management partner who understands your pressures and delivers without the stress, let’s talk. We’ve built our reputation on reliability, communication, and service that goes the extra mile — and we’d love to show you what that looks like in practice.
The Rail Infrastructure Networking (RIN) event in London was a fantastic opportunity for Paragon Traffic Management to strengthen relationships, engage with industry leaders, and gain valuable insight into the challenges and trends shaping the rail sector. Our Business Development Manager, Matt Hardy and Seniors Business Development Manager Ben Simons, attended the event, speaking with professionals across the industry and gathering key takeaways that will help Paragon refine and expand our services in the rail infrastructure space.
The Value of Face-to-Face Networking
One of the biggest advantages of events like RIN is the opportunity for direct engagement with clients and industry leaders. Matt highlighted how in-person conversations create stronger relationships compared to emails or calls, which can sometimes be misinterpreted as persistent follow-ups. In an environment like RIN, everyone is there to network, making conversations productive and valuable from the start.
Ben echoed this sentiment, noting that discussions at RIN London focused on upcoming infrastructure changes nationwide and how businesses are preparing for these shifts. Being part of these conversations allows Paragon to anticipate industry needs and adapt our services accordingly.
TM Challenges in Rail Infrastructure
Through multiple discussions at RIN London, some recurring pain points emerged regarding traffic management within rail projects. The biggest concerns highlighted by industry professionals included:
Slow turnaround times for quotations – Many rail project managers expressed frustration with waiting 1-2 weeks for a quote, which slows down planning and disrupts project timelines. At Paragon, we deliver quotes within 24 hours, offering a seamless and efficient service.
Lack of understanding from TM providers – One company shared a case where a traffic management provider specified the incorrect TM setup, leading to a night-time project cancellation and further delays. With Matt’s background in the rail industry, Paragon brings specialist knowledge that ensures we fully understand the scope of works and provide the right TM solutions from the outset.
Inconsistency in service quality – Some project managers reported unreliable experiences with TM providers, making it difficult to plan effectively. Paragon’s commitment to high standards, RISQS verification, and in-house permits and licencing team positions us as a trusted partner for rail projects requiring efficiency, accuracy, and reliability.
The Current State of the Rail Industry
Another key takeaway from RIN London was the current quiet period in the industry, largely due to the slow start of Control Period 7 (CP7). While this has impacted projects nationwide, it also presents an opportunity for businesses like Paragon to enhance service offerings, strengthen relationships, and position ourselves as a go-to provider for upcoming projects as activity ramps up.
Looking Ahead: Exhibiting at RIN Derby & Harrogate
After the success of RIN London, we’re excited to be exhibiting at the RIN Derby and Harrogate events later this year. While attending RIN London allowed us to engage with industry professionals, exhibiting will provide even greater opportunities to demonstrate our capabilities and unique selling points to a wider audience.
Ben highlighted how these upcoming events will be the perfect platform to showcase our CRM system and service offering, reinforcing what makes Paragon different from competitors. Engaging potential clients and demonstrating our efficiency, reliability, and in-house expertise will be central to our presence at these exhibitions.
Matt is particularly looking forward to being on the other side of the stand, allowing us to connect not just with attendees but also with other exhibitors and industry professionals looking for trusted traffic management partners.
Final Thoughts
The RIN London event was a resounding success for Paragon Traffic Management’s research, providing invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the rail sector. With a firm understanding of industry pain points and a clear roadmap for improvement, we’re committed to delivering fast, reliable, and industry-specific traffic management solutions that help our clients stay on track.
With RIN Derby and Harrogate on the horizon, we’re gearing up to make an even bigger impact—so if you’re attending, be sure to visit us and see how Paragon Traffic Management is leading the way in rail infrastructure traffic management.
📅 Interested in learning more about our rail traffic management solutions? Get in touch today to discuss how we can support your next project!
Setting the Standard in Rail Infrastructure Traffic Management
In the regulated world of rail infrastructure, compliance, safety, and reliability are non-negotiable. Paragon Traffic Management is proud to be RISQS Verified, demonstrating our commitment to meeting the highest industry standards. This verification ensures that we are a trusted supplier, providing safe and efficient rail traffic management solutions across the UK.
What Does Being RISQS Verified Mean?
The Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme (RISQS) is the UK rail industry’s supplier assurance scheme, designed to ensure that companies working within rail infrastructure meet stringent safety and operational requirements. Being RISQS Verified means we have undergone a thorough compliance check, ensuring that our policies, procedures, and qualifications align with the expectations of rail operators, contractors, and other industry stakeholders.
For our clients, this means confidence in choosing a traffic management provider that operates at the highest level of safety and compliance. Whether it’s coordinating level crossing closures, facilitating bridge inspections, or managing compound access for major rail projects, our verification under RISQS ensures we’re fully equipped and approved to handle these critical tasks.
Why RISQS Verification Matters for Rail Traffic Management
Rail projects are complex, requiring meticulous planning, coordination, and compliance with strict health and safety regulations. By working with a RISQS Verified supplier, rail contractors and operators benefit from:
Compliance Assurance – Guaranteed adherence to Network Rail and industry-wide safety requirements.
Reduced Risk – Ensuring all operations meet the strictest health and safety protocols.
Efficient Project Delivery – Streamlined traffic management solutions to keep projects on schedule and within regulation.
Trusted Partnerships – Confidence in working with a fully qualified and vetted supplier.
Our Expertise in Rail Infrastructure Traffic Management
At Paragon Traffic Management, we provide bespoke traffic management solutions tailored to the unique needs of the rail sector. Our services include:
Bridge Replacement & Inspection Support – Managing road closures, crane/machine permits, and safety zones.
Compound Access & Logistics – Organizing controlled access for heavy machinery, deliveries, and construction teams.
Permit Acquisition & Coordination – Handling all required TTROs, road closures, and licensing requirements in-house to eliminate delays.
Our RISQS Verification solidifies our role as a leading provider of rail traffic management services, ensuring every project is delivered with precision, safety, and efficiency.
Looking Ahead: Our Upcoming RISQS Audit
As part of our ongoing commitment to excellence in rail traffic management, we have scheduled our RISQS Audit for May. This next step in our compliance journey will further enhance our standing as a fully audited supplier, allowing us to take on higher-risk, larger-scale projects within the rail sector.
Partner with a RISQS Verified Traffic Management Specialist
If you’re working on a rail infrastructure project and need a trusted, RISQS Verified traffic management partner, Paragon is ready to assist. Get in touch today to discuss your requirements and see how we can support your next rail project with expertise, compliance, and seamless service.
At Paragon Traffic Management, innovation and safety are at the heart of everything we do. With our recent investment in Slimstack Pedestrian Barriers, we’re taking another leap forward in enhancing road and pedestrian safety while streamlining operations for our team. These new barriers are a game-changer, reflecting our commitment to modernising traffic management and staying ahead in 2025.
What Makes the Slimstack Barrier Exceptional?
The Slimstack Barrier is modern take on the traditional roadside/ pedestrian barrier. Designed to be lighter and more compact, these barriers offer several key benefits:
Space-Saving Design: Compared to traditional barriers, the Slimstack is both physically slimmer and significantly lighter. This allows our operatives to fit twice as many barriers on their vans, maximising efficiency during transport and deployment.
Professional Appearance: Each barrier is embossed with our Paragon logo, enhancing the professional look of our work sites and making them far less appealing to theft.
Easier Handling for Operatives: The reduced weight makes the barriers much easier to manage, requiring fewer trips to and from the van. This not only saves time but also reduces the amount of time operatives spend working on the roadside, directly contributing to their safety.
Enhanced Safety for Operatives and the Public
Safety is at the core of our company ethos, embodied in our motto: “Safety By Choice, Not By Chance.” The Slimstack Barrier significantly reduces the physical strain on operatives and decreases the risks associated with handling heavier, bulkier equipment. Fewer trips to the roadside mean less exposure to passing traffic, enhancing safety for everyone involved.
The barriers’ durability and design also provide a secure and reliable solution for managing traffic and protecting pedestrians, ensuring that every worksite we manage meets the highest safety standards.
A Sustainable and Strategic Investment
The Slimstack Barrier isn’t just about functionality—it’s also a step towards sustainability. The lighter design and compact stacking reduce the environmental footprint of transporting barriers, leading to fewer trips and lower fuel consumption. This aligns with our commitment to reducing carbon emissions across our operations.
Rolling Out Success Nationwide
Following a successful initial rollout from our Scunthorpe head office, the Slimstack Barrier is already making waves across our operations. Feedback from operatives has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the system’s ease of use and practical benefits. Clients, too, have taken notice, highlighting the barriers’ fantastic appearance and the enhanced safety they bring to work sites.
With such strong results, we’re rolling out these barriers to all our depots across the UK. As our older barriers become unserviceable, they will be phased out in favour of the Slimstack system, ensuring that this forward-thinking solution becomes our standard nationwide.
Setting the Standard for 2025 and Beyond
This investment is part of a broader strategy to make 2025 a standout year for Paragon Traffic Management. From the cutting-edge Slimstack Barriers to our fleet of new bespoke vans, every step we take is focused on delivering better solutions for our clients, improving safety for our operatives, and reducing our environmental impact.
At Paragon, we’re not just keeping up with industry standards—we’re setting them. The Slimstack Barrier is yet another example of how we’re leading the way in modern traffic management, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible service and solutions.
We’re always striving to raise the bar in how we deliver safety, efficiency, and reliability on the road. To kick off 2025, we’ve made a significant investment in our fleet with the addition of brand-new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans. But these aren’t just any vans—they’ve been custom-built with bespoke traffic management beds designed to enhance every aspect of our work. This investment reflects our commitment to road safety, environmental sustainability, and making life easier for our operatives.
The new Sprinter vans come with innovative features designed specifically for traffic management. They include built-in storage cages near the cab for neatly storing signs, sandbags, and other essentials giving much easier access, along with improved onboard work lights for safer loading and unloading at night. The lower tail lifts have been a hit with the team, making equipment handling far easier and yes, the vans can now fit through McDonald’s drive-thrus! These thoughtful upgrades are more than just convenient; they are designed to create a safer and more efficient working environment for our teams on the ground.
An Investment in Innovation and Road Safety
Upgrading to these vehicles isn’t just about staying current—it’s about pushing forward and setting the standard in traffic management. The lightweight design of the bespoke beds reduces the overall weight of the vans, which translates to better fuel efficiency and a significant reduction in carbon emissions. By investing in these vans, we’re making strides toward our sustainability goals while also reducing operational costs. It’s a win-win for the environment and for the business.
This investment also supports the day-to-day operations of our traffic management operatives, who have already shared how these upgrades have made a real difference in their work. From easier equipment handling to safer working conditions at night, these vans have been designed with our teams in mind. Feedback from our operatives highlights how much better organised and accessible their equipment is now, saving them time and effort on-site and allowing them to focus on what really matters—getting the job done safely and efficiently.
Driving a Safer, Smarter Future
This fleet upgrade is just one of the ways we’re continuing to innovate and invest in the future of traffic management. These vans reflect our commitment to providing industry-leading solutions while ensuring our teams are equipped with the best tools for the job. It’s all part of our mission to enhance road safety, deliver exceptional service, and work toward a more sustainable future.
Our investment in these bespoke vans isn’t just about logistics; it’s about reinforcing our core values. Whether it’s making life easier for our operatives, reducing our environmental impact, or delivering better results for our clients, every detail has been considered.
If you’re interested in learning more about how our innovative approach to traffic management can benefit your next project, get in touch today. Let’s shape the future of road safety together.Receive your traffic management quote within 24hrs here.
Driving Rail Infrastructure Projects with Advanced Traffic Management
The rail infrastructure sector is a cornerstone of modern connectivity, requiring precision, safety, and efficiency at every stage. Managing the challenges of rail projects demands a traffic management partner who understands the complexities and unique requirements of rail infrastructure. That’s where we excel.
Comprehensive Services for Rail Infrastructure
We deliver tailored traffic management solutions across key areas of rail infrastructure:
Level Crossings Ensuring smooth operations during re-rails and blockades by managing TTROs (Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders) and line block schedules. Our team coordinates closures, allowing safe and timely access to critical areas.
Bridge Replacements and Inspections Supporting bridge projects by obtaining highway permits and managing traffic during complex operations. Whether cranes are lifting new structures or MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms) are inspecting existing ones, our services cover it all. Additionally, we establish safe drop zones for abseiling inspections.
Compounds and Access Management Facilitating the movement of machinery and personnel with expertly planned access and egress strategies. We manage traffic flow to ensure operations within compounds are seamless and efficient.
Deliveries and Set-Down Areas Coordinating traffic during material deliveries, such as rail, ballast, and heavy plant. We create safe set-down areas to handle high-volume deliveries at the start of rail upgrades, minimizing delays and risks.
Why Choose Us?
RISQS Accreditation As a RISQS-verified supplier, we meet the highest standards in safety and quality, ensuring compliance with industry requirements. This accreditation is crucial for all suppliers in the rail infrastructure sector, and it reflects our dedication to excellence.
Permit and Licensing Expertise Our in-house team handles all necessary permits and licenses, streamlining the approval process and ensuring no delays.
Safety and Efficiency Safety is at the core of everything we do. “Safety By Choice Not By Chance” Our experienced operatives use advanced technology and industry best practices to ensure every project is delivered seamlessly
Investing in Rail’s Future
Our commitment to rail infrastructure extends beyond day-to-day operations. We continuously invest in cutting-edge equipment, training, and technology to provide unparalleled service to our clients. By fostering strong collaboration with stakeholders, we ensure that every project meets its goals while prioritising the safety of workers and the public.
Partner with Experts in Rail Traffic Management
Whether it’s managing large-scale bridge replacements or coordinating traffic during complex rail upgrades, we are your trusted partner for rail infrastructure projects. Our tailored solutions, proven track record, and commitment to safety set us apart.
Looking for traffic management solutions for your next rail project? Visit our Rail Infrastructure Traffic Management page to learn more and get a quote today!
As the seasonal period approaches, embargoes are about to take effect across most industries. These restrictions, enforced by councils, can create significant challenges for project timelines if not planned for in advance. Whether it’s construction, utilities, or events, the blanket “no’s” issued by councils during embargoes can bring works to a complete halt, regardless of their urgency or scale.
Why Act Now?
Embargoes typically kick in over the first couple of weeks of December, affecting road closures, diversions, and other traffic/ project management requirements. Once they’re in place, securing approvals or moving forward with your plans becomes nearly impossible. By acting now and booking your traffic management requirements early, you can avoid delays and ensure your projects stay on track.
How We Help You Stay Ahead
We understand the urgency that comes with preparing for embargoes. That’s why we offer:
24-Hour Quote Turnaround: Get your traffic management needs sorted quickly.
In-House Permitting Team: Avoid delays with efficient permit handling before the embargoes hit.
Industry Expertise: We’ve navigated countless embargo periods and know exactly how to help you maximise the remaining time.
Don’t Wait—Secure Your Slot
With councils issuing blanket refusals during embargo periods, the window for getting approvals and starting your works is closing fast. Reach out today to lock in your traffic management and avoid the seasonal rush.
We understand that clear and consistent communication with our clients is essential for everyone’s success. Our commitment to excellence in traffic management is driven by our office staff’s responsiveness and our operatives’ proactive approach to keeping clients informed on-site throughout the project.
Advanced CRM System
Our operatives are equipped with all necessary information via our CRM system, accessible on their tablets. This system allows them to document their work with site photos and notes, which are instantly uploaded for quality control checks by our office team. This ensures that we maintain the highest standards and address any issues promptly.
Why Communication Matters
Effective communication is at the heart of everything we do. We believe it is the single most effective aspect of providing safe and dependable traffic management. By keeping everyone informed and ensuring that our operatives have all the tools they need, we can deliver outstanding results and client satisfaction.
Get a Free Quote
Interested in our services? Receive a free, no-obligation quote within 24 hours by visiting our quote request page using this link: Paragon Traffic Management Services.
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