Passengers travelling on Thameslink services can expect a noticeably cleaner and more comfortable journey, as a significant refurbishment programme gets under way across the operator’s 115-strong Class 700 fleet.
The initiative follows Thameslink’s recent transition into public ownership and forms part of a broader push to improve customer experience ahead of the planned establishment of Great British Railways by the end of 2027.
Major Investment in Cleanliness and Presentation
A £3.6 million programme is being deployed to revitalise more than 1,140 carriages. Central to this effort is the polishing of 46km of train exteriors, restoring them to a bright white finish. Inside, toilets are being repainted and fitted with updated materials, while new wall vinyls are being introduced to deter graffiti and simplify maintenance.
Every carriage is also undergoing a deep steam clean at the Three Bridges depot in Sussex, ensuring a comprehensive uplift in hygiene standards across the fleet.
The project is funded jointly by the Department for Transport (DfT) and Greater Thameslink Railway (GTR), and delivered in partnership with Siemens Mobility.
Public Ownership Focused on Passenger Priorities
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy highlighted the wider significance of the programme, stating:
“These improvements show how passengers are being prioritised under public ownership and, as we move towards Great British Railways, making sure that travelling by train is a comfortable and positive experience.
“This refresh on Thameslink services is just the start. Under public ownership, passengers not shareholders will be prioritised to deliver a safer, cleaner and more reliable railway.”
The refurbishment is one of several early measures introduced since GTR joined the growing portfolio of publicly owned train operating companies on 31 May.
GTR Targets Customer Satisfaction Gains
For GTR, the programme aligns with a broader strategy to improve service quality and attract more passengers back to rail.
Interim CEO John Whitehurst said:
“Boosting customer satisfaction is a priority for us, so we’re delighted to bring tangible improvements to our Thameslink train fleet which passengers will really appreciate.
“By making our trains more attractive, we will encourage more people to choose rail across the vast Thameslink network, connecting communities as far apart as Cambridge and Brighton.”
Strong Industry Partnership Delivering Results
The collaboration with Siemens Mobility is central to the scale and pace of delivery, with both organisations contributing technical and operational expertise.
Aglaja Schneider, Joint CEO at Siemens Mobility UKI, added:
“This is what effective rail partnerships deliver – our teams are restoring 46km of train exteriors to a gleaming finish, while GTR’s teams are deep-cleaning every carriage to the highest standard. Thameslink passengers deserve a quality experience on board, and together we’re making that a reality across all 115 trains. It’s part of our wider ambition to transform rail travel and transport for communities right across the UK.”
Wider Programme of Improvements Under Way
The fleet refresh forms part of a much wider improvement plan being rolled out across the GTR network. Key initiatives include:
- Increased staffing capacity: 75 additional drivers across Thameslink and Great Northern are expected to qualify this year, alongside 40 more drivers for Southern and Gatwick Express, helping to reduce cancellations.
- Enhanced safety presence: 110 Travel Safe Officers are being trained to improve onboard security and tackle anti-social behaviour.
- Signalling upgrades: A secondary signalling system between Farringdon and Blackfriars is set to reduce delays and prevent more than 1,000 cancellations annually.
- Improved customer communications: A new WhatsApp-based support channel will allow passengers to access real-time assistance during disruption, alongside expanded digital payment options.
Broader Fleet Refurbishment Across GTR
Beyond Thameslink, GTR is also investing heavily in its Southern fleet. A total of 304 Electrostar trains are undergoing refurbishment at Selhurst Depot, with upgrades including full repaints, new seating upholstery, refreshed carpets and modifications designed to reduce on-board noise.
Image and video credits: GTR
