Infrastructure contractors are also based in the new centre

The train operator has just opened the joint control centre with Network Rail, the company which looks after rail infrastructure.

It is designed to be the hub of the day-to-day operation of the region's railway, say First Great Western.

Alison Forster, the company's director and general manager, said: "This centre is further evidence of rail industry parties working together for the benefit of the public.

"It is the nerve centre of the region's rail operations and the 140 men and women who work there are committed to the smooth and efficient running of the rail network every minute of every day."

The main reasons behind the decision to move in together are improved communication, and speed in addressing problems.

Network Rail's contractors, Carillion and Amey, also have teams based in the centre.