Hull Trains have applied for a new track access contract for 10 years from 2019 so they can procure a fleet of 5 car bi-modes to be intoduced from 2020.
www.networkrail.co.uk/browsedirecto...l Trains - Section 17 - Closes 28 August 2015
www.networkrail.co.uk/browsedirecto...l Trains - Section 17 - Closes 28 August 2015
The proposed Selby to Hull electrification scheme is likely to be delivered in or after Control Period 6, depending on Network Rails wider electrification programme. Uncertainty over the timing means it is not sustainable for the region to wait until electrification is complete to order Electrical Multiple Units.
Our introduction of new bi-mode trains is not reliant on electrification of this route and will ensure customers can benefit from new high-quality rolling stock earlier and provide additional capacity enabling continued development of the business, benefitting the region and growing the overall demand for rail.
The current fleet of Class 180s is expensive to operate and maintain, and would require a refit by 2019. Without investment in new trains Hull Trains customers face a potential dis-benefit from comparatively slower journey times and relatively older stock.
We are seeking a term of 10 years to provide the certainty to enable investment in a fleet of new bi-mode trains to operate these services and associated maintenance arrangements. We have also made provision for the costs of operating the new trains on the infrastructure, for example, route clearance between Hull and Beverley.
The new contract will start from the date of expiry of the current ORR approved Track Access Agreement for Hull Trains (01:59 hours on the Principle Change Date in 2019). We are seeking access rights for 10 years to 01:59 hours on the Principle Change Date in 2029.
We expect to introduce the trains from January 2020, and will make the rights contingent on introducing the full fleet by December 2021.