Arriva Group’s UK open access train operating company, Grand Central, has announced that it is seeking to extend its existing track access rights until 2038. This would secure its services for the next 15 years and hence unlocking Arriva’s intentions to invest in new, state-of-the-art trains.
Grand Central has been operating services on the East Coast mainline since 2007 as an open access operator, which means it receives no government funding or subsidy. It directly links 15 destinations, including cities in Yorkshire and the North East with Kings Cross, London
The application represents a significant commitment to long-term services and supports its plans to expand services with improved connectivity and increased frequency, as outlined in a previous application, submitted to the Office of Rail and Road in May.
Consultations have begun with stakeholders and Grand Central will be outlining its intentions to invest through procurement of Bi-Mode trains which are capable of operating on both electrified and non-electrified lines, offering greater flexibility and efficiency, while future-proofing its operation.
Subject to approval through the procurement process, new trains would bring significant benefits to passengers and communities, including:
- Increased capacity: The new trains would feature approximately 20 per cent more seats than the current Class 180 units, providing additional capacity to meet growing passenger demand.
- A Modernised fleet: The new Bi-Mode trains would replace the existing 24-year-old Class 180 units bringing new customer focussed features and a more comfortable experience for passengers.
- Greener services: The Bi-mode trains would cut carbon emissions and provide smoother journeys for passengers. They can operate on electric and non-electric tracks, so they can serve long into the future as track electrification gathers pace across the UK.
David Brown, Managing Director of Arriva UK Trains, commented: “
Grand Central plays an important role within Arriva Group’s rail portfolio andsecuring long-term access will allow us to invest and grow, supporting the Government’s ambitions for Britain’s railways to thrive.
Grand Central provides reliable and efficient journeys to passengers who would otherwise not have access to services and therefore plays an essential role in economic growth by connecting communities across the north of England”.
Photo credit: Arriva
