Humber railways on track for growth with £68m investment

DELAYS to rail electrification aren’t holding First Hull Trains back, as they announce a £68m investment in Humber’s trains.

The Government announced the suspension of several electrification projects earlier this summer.

But First Hull Trains are continuing to work with Network Rail and the Office of Rail Regulation to secure the connection between the Humber and London.

The firm has invested £68m in a fleet of Bi-Mode trains, which are capable of running off both electricity and diesel, and has entered into a consultation process to secure track access for another 10 years.

The trains are set to enter service in 2020, and will be able to reach speeds of up to 140mph, with up to 320 seats on each, meaning a 50% increase in the number of seats for passengers.

Will Dunnett, managing director of Hull Trains said: “The new units will bring an even higher quality environment for passengers with new interiors, enhanced catering, air-conditioning and a quieter environment due to electric traction – all areas that we know are important to passengers.”
“The dual-function of the units also means that we can keep passengers on trains during disruption, which we would not be able to do in fully-electric units.
“Crucially, our plans will generate additional permanent job creation for the region as well as growth in the local economy through improved connectivity and journey times and ensuring that East Yorkshire and Humberside continues to benefit from a high-speed, first-class rail service.”