10.04.18
TPE launches one of ‘biggest timetable changes the north has seen’
TransPennine Express (TPE) has launched a new transformational timetable that it argues will deliver real benefits for communities across the north and into Scotland.
The changes, which form part of the Great North Rail Project (GNRP), will come into effect from 20 May, and will see 17 minutes shaved off journeys between Manchester Victoria and Liverpool Lime Street, bringing it down to just 35 minutes.
There will be two fast services an hour between Newcastle and Manchester, and six trains an hour will operate across the Pennines between Leeds, Huddersfield and Manchester.
Hull and Manchester will see new hourly evening services, Middlesbrough and Hull will be served by more Sunday services, and Scarborough and Middlesbrough will gain earlier and later weekday services.
Scotland services will run direct between Manchester and Preston, no longer calling at Wigan North Western and Manchester Oxford Road.
Leo Goodwin, managing director for TPE, called the changes “one of the biggest timetable changes the north has seen,” and said that it would deliver real benefits to passengers.
“Customers across our network are already benefitting from a £32m overhaul of our train fleet to like-new standard with the on-board experience having been totally transformed,” he added.
“The upgrade features new high-quality seating and carpets, charging points, fast, free wi-fi in both standard and first class plus access to free entertainment system, Exstream.”
The first of the new Nova trains are set to be introduced later this year, which will mean over 13 million extra seats across the north.
Transport for the North’s strategic rail programme director, David Hoggarth, added: “This is a period of significant change for rail users in the north as part of the journey to transformed services and rolling stock.
“TPE is setting the bar high with its new and refurbished trains and with some real improvements to services. It’s good to see the enhancements and there will be more to come.”
Top image: Tornadoflight
Have you got a story to tell? Would you like to become an RTM columnist? If so, click here.