Investment in a Modern Rail Network
Passengers in the North of England are set to experience significant improvements in their train journeys, thanks to a substantial investment of approximately £1 billion in a new fleet of trains. This funding initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at revitalising Britain’s rail network and placing the needs of passengers at the forefront of railway services.
The new fleet will consist of 29 battery-electric trains designed for the TransPennine Express service, which will be manufactured at the historic Litchurch Lane Works in Derby. This initiative exemplifies the potential of Great British Railways (GBR) to enhance service delivery by integrating train manufacturing and track operations.
This investment not only promises to modernise rail travel but also stands as a boon for British industry. It is expected to create more than 350 skilled jobs in Derby, along with opportunities for 40 apprentices and an additional 40 students. Furthermore, the broader UK supply chain will support nearly 6,000 jobs, contributing an estimated £360 million to the national economy.
Enhanced Travel Efficiency
With the introduction of these new trains, passengers will benefit from reduced journey times, with travel between Manchester and Leeds shortened by up to 10 minutes, and up to 14 minutes saved on journeys between Manchester and York. This development aligns with the goals of the Transpennine Route Upgrade project, which aims to increase capacity by 30% and provide thousands of additional seats daily across the Pennines by the early to mid-2030s.
Notably, these innovative Adessia Stream trains will be the first battery-electric models to operate on a UK main line, offering an environmentally friendly travel option on non-electrified sections of the network. Passengers can look forward to a quieter and smoother ride, enhanced accessibility features, increased luggage capacity, and onboard Wi-Fi. Production of these trains is set to commence in 2028, with the first units expected to enter service during the winter of 2034.
Commitment to British Engineering
Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed optimism regarding this investment, highlighting the transformative potential of the new trains for the North of England. He noted the importance of reliable rail services, which can significantly impact people’s lives, including their work opportunities and overall quality of life.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander echoed this sentiment, stating that the investment exemplifies GBR’s commitment to improving passenger experiences while bolstering British businesses. The transition from outdated, overcrowded diesel trains to efficient electric alternatives marks a significant step forward for the rail industry in terms of sustainability.
Chris Jackson, Managing Director at TransPennine Express, referred to the £1 billion investment as a game-changer for rail travel in the North. He highlighted the expected improvements in seating availability and accessibility, particularly for those with mobility challenges.
A Vision for the Future of Rail Travel
The Transpennine Route Upgrade project has already channelled more than £1 billion into local businesses and generated substantial social value for communities in the North. Currently employing 5,000 workers, the initiative aims to create 8,000 jobs over its lifetime.
These new trains will serve key routes between major northern cities, such as Liverpool and Scarborough, Manchester Airport and Saltburn, and Manchester Piccadilly and Hull. The contract represents a significant commitment from the government to support British manufacturing, specifically with Alstom, the largest rolling stock train manufacturer outside of China, which has a rich history in train design and engineering since 1876.
Improving Accessibility and User Experience
The initiative will not only create jobs but also enhance accessibility for all passengers. The new fleet will feature step-free boarding, eliminating gaps between platforms and train doors, making travel easier for individuals with wheelchairs, parents with pushchairs, and those carrying luggage. Additionally, each train will include three dedicated wheelchair spaces, two accessible toilets, family-friendly zones, and storage for bicycles and pushchairs.
Rock Rail, the company responsible for leasing the trains to TransPennine Express, will collaborate closely with both TransPennine Express and Alstom to ensure the successful delivery of this significant project. Rock Rail’s founder, Mark Swindell, expressed gratitude for the partnership and emphasised the project’s potential to enhance the overall passenger experience through improved journey times and environmental benefits.