First of redundant Class 317s sent for scrapping

Disposal of redundant Class 317s is under way, with the first two fourcar electric multiple units dragged to Eastleigh Works for scrapping.

Sent off-lease by Greater Anglia earlier this year, 317656/661 have been stripped of reusable components. They were dragged from Ilford to Hampshire by GB Railfreight 66709 Sorrento on November 13.

GA had planned to withdraw its entire 72-strong fleet of ‘317s’ by April 2020, as per the franchise agreement signed in 2016.

However, delays in introducing Bombardier Class 720/5s meant they have had to remain in service - GA has applied to continue using at least 35 of the veteran EMUs until May 30 next year.

Class 317s were built between 1981-87 and introduced on the route from St Pancras International. They were also used on East Coast Main Line and West Anglia services, slowly migrating east until all sets operated from Liverpool Street.

London Overground had a small fleet, but these were withdrawn earlier this year. While the eight Class 317/7s LO used will move to GA, its six Class 317/8s are stored at Potter Group, Ely.

The ‘317/6s’, converted from ‘317/2s’ in the late 1990s, are the youngest members of the fleet, but do not meet accessibility regulations that came into force on January 1. All but six of that subclass will be withdrawn by the end of the year.