£60m plan to refurbish rail fleet is announced
EAST Midlands Railway (EMR) has announced the start of a £60 million programme to refurbish its fleet.
The operator said together with the introduction of Aurora Intercity trains, work on its Class 360, Class 158 and Class 170 trains will mean that all of its fleet will either be replaced or refurbished.
The electric Class 360 fleet operates EMR Connect and Luton Airport Express services between Corby and London St Pancras.
The Class 170 trains operate regional services across the East Midlands, including Cleethorpes to Leicester via Lincoln and Nottingham.
All trains will receive new seat foams and covers, an extensive refresh as well as new passenger information systems and CCTV.
EMR’s Class 158 fleet mainly operates on the Liverpool to Norwich route.
Leicester mayor Sir Peter Soulsby, who is chairman of Transport for the East Midlands (TfEM), said: “The refurbishment of EMR’s regional and commuter services has been a TfEM priority for some time, so we are delighted this investment is now going ahead.
“The refurbishments to these trains, with improved interiors and critical technology modernisation, will benefit all East Midlands rail communities and further strengthen the appeal of rail as a travel option.”
Will Rogers, managing director of East Midlands Railway, said: “This multi-million-pound investment into our Connect and Regional fleets is fantastic news for our customers and the regions we serve.
“The refurbishment will redefine the travel experience across every corner of our network.
“This investment will be transformative, offering more convenience, comfort and better facilities.
“’It is also great news for the country’s rail industry, with all the work being carried out by UK companies.”
Huw Merriman, rail minister, said: “This refurbishment programme will provide a boost to the UK rail industry and is great news for passengers, who will soon benefit from significantly more enjoyable journeys across the EMR network on new and improved trains.
“This kind of investment is crucial as we continue to modernise our railways, enhancing the passenger experience for millions of people and attracting more people to travel by rail.”