Modernising the Marseille–Ventimiglia line

The project will be rolled out in three phases:

• Phase 1: Théoule-sur-Mer/Grasse to Ventimiglia | Scheduled commissioning: End of 2028
• Phase 2: La Ciotat to Théoule-sur-Mer | Scheduled commissioning: End of 2030
• Phase 3: La Ciotat to (but not including) Marseille Blancarde | Scheduled commissioning: End of 2031

2018 : Preliminary design studies launched

2021 : Final design phase begins

2022 : Start of construction work

2027 : First dynamic testing on a pilot section of the line

For the 2028 timetable: Commissioning of the first segment between Théoule-sur-Mer, Grasse and Menton, along with integration of the ERTMS with Ventimiglia station and the Italian network

For the 2031 timetable: Full commissioning of the remaining section up to Marseille Blancarde

The Marseille–Ventimiglia line is one of the busiest in France. To deliver high-performance service and accommodate increasing traffic, ERTMS Level 2—a fully digital signalling system—will be gradually rolled out along the route. Once in place, this system will allow trains to run closer together, increasing overall traffic flow.

A project broken down into three key activities:  : 

Activity 1: ERTMS rollout

• Implementation of a Level 2 Radio Block Centre (RBC) on a conventional line
• Installation of Eurobalises along the track

Activity 2: Interlocking system upgrade 

• Installation of ARGOS-type digital signalling to replace the existing signal boxes
• Deployment of a secure fibre-optic transmission network
• Installation of new-generation axle counters

Activity 3: GSM-R rollout:

• Dual-coverage deployment of high-speed GSM-R railway radio communication

• • The works comply with SNCF’s Green Worksite Charter.
• Once the new system is in place, the existing signalling infrastructure will be dismantled and processed using circular economy principles (through internal reuse or waste recovery) thanks to a recovery and reuse strategy developed as part of the HPMV project.
• The new products and systems are more efficient, resulting in lower total lifecycle costs. They incorporate recyclable and durable materials, are built to withstand harsh conditions and minimise the use of materials that are difficult to dispose of at end of life.
• The energy assessment shows a significant reduction in the electricity required to power the new signalling system.
• Full digitalisation of the signalling system means a leaner infrastructure.
• The project also boasts a positive carbon footprint, with a 70% reduction in CO₂ emissions from the signalling infrastructure compared to a conventional system.

All train movements will be managed remotely from a control centre (PCD) based in Marseille, as part of the Centralised Network Control (CCR). Acting as a true control tower, the CCR will:

• Allow train routes to be programmed digitally;
• Make it easier to anticipate and resolve traffic conflicts;
• Enable faster detection of potential incidents;
• Improve response times by housing traffic, operations and maintenance teams in a single control room.

The deployment of both ERTMS and CCR marks a further step towards the launch of metropolitan regional express services (SERM).

• More trains, more often: With the implementation of ERTMS and Centralised Network Control, operations will become more reliable and traffic levels can be increased, paving the way for the rollout of metropolitan regional express services (SERM).
• Shorter journey times: A new underground railway station in Marseille will reduce travel times by 15 to 20 minutes. Upgrades to the Marseille rail hub will also enhance connections to the North and East.
• More reliable trains: Upgrades to the track and station infrastructure will help to reduce disruption by allowing quicker response to unexpected issues.
• Modern, multimodal stations: New, fully integrated train stations and stops will make rail travel more accessible and user-friendly for passengers.
• Expanded freight capacity: With more trains running, additional time slots will be made available for freight services.
• A smaller carbon footprint: Deploying ERTMS generates three times fewer greenhouse gas emissions than overhauling a traditional signalling system. By 2035, passenger numbers are expected to rise by 36%. Over a 40-year operating period, the project is expected to avoid 450,000 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent emissions. The Marseille–Ventimiglia High-Performance project is a key step toward greener transport in the South-East.