Hull Trains experience

[shinkansen1966]

Last Saturday, had my first trip on open access operator Hull Trains from Kings X to Hull. Of the various new generation DMUs, particularly like the class 180s. Quiet under floor engine, bright and breezy interiors, nice streamlined front end. Not sure about the raspy air con unit, though.

Was wondering why Hull Trains travel via Selby & Howden rather than the more direct route via Goole. Does the Selby route have more passenger potential? And why do trains stop at Howden, is it a park & ride station ?

I was particularly struck by the state of infrastructure between Selby and Hull. The track appeared straight and well ballasted. By there was a general speed limit of 70/75mph and with semaphore signalling. Are there any plans to upgrade the line to Hull with coloured lights and faster line speeds? It would bring Kingston upon Hull a welcome few minutes closer to the ECML.

Along with all the other open access operators, Hull Trains does not operate a penalty fares policy. Shouldn’t there be a national standard introduced ?

 

[Jordy]

Yes I believe Selby has a considerable market, and Howden apparently serves a number of villages around it (it gets more passengers that you'd imagine!). I don't think there are any plans to upgrade the line between Selby and Hull for faster running, 70/75 is quite fast for a line of this type.

As for penalty fares, open access operators such as Hull Trains and Grand Central allow passengers to buy their tickets on board the train, so no need for penalty fares here.