Blackpool to Manchester needs 6 cars, people are often left on the platforms at rush hour, and the capacity issue though the Castlefield corridor means this is the only way solve the problem (plus they lengthened a few platforms to accommodate the train lengths)
Well, the Blackpool to Hazel Grove services cannot become 6-car. Although the Hazel Grove platforms are plenty long enough, the layover sidings are only 121m, 5-car maximum. Although the original plan was for the Blackpool services to go to Macclesfield, where 6 cars could be accommodated, not Hazel Grove. Maybe the better performance of the 331 vice the 319 might make this route feasible?
Wilmslow also has a turnback siding, accessible from the Styal lines.
What about 444s?
Of the stations you list, Prestbury, Bramhall and Cheadle Hulme have platforms less than 6-car length, in the Down direction only. But 331s have Selective Door Opening, which could be used if a 6-car formation called at any of these stations.
Last night these two units were stabled in the siding at the Leeds end of the station. Easily viewable if anyone wants to spot them.
You'll be able to see them as you come in and out of skipton
As far as I'm aware just training. Theoretically the 3-car units in Yorkshire could be pressed into use in a pinch, but only if there's a crew available who are passed out on the type- which will become more likely as the training progresses.
Thanks
I did!
I wonder how many skipton crews they have to train before they appear on the Aire valley.
Do any leeds crews need to train for the 331s on Airedale turns (for example if they aren't able to sign Leeds to Dincaster) or won't they need to train for them becuase they're the same crews that work both Leeds to Donny and Airedale turns
I think Leeds and Skipton crews work the triangle and Doncaster and Leeds crews work Leeds Doncaster.
Thanks, much appreciate it
331103 was on Edge Hill last night.
Not seen any hauled paths from Skipton.
