The first trains from Liverpool to Manchester on a newly electrified route are up and running following the completion of work by Network Rail.
The ‘0616’ train from Liverpool Lime Street to Manchester Airport was the first to use the new route, after extensive work was undertaken as well as upgrades to the carriages, including modernised interiors which include more comfortable seating.
Newly installed on-board technology, including new digital screens and automated audio announcements, will keep customers better informed on their journey.
Route managing director for Network Rail, Martin Frobisher, believes the first electronic train from Lime Street to Manchester Airport was a major success.
He said: “[The journey] signifies the completion of the latest stage of a much bigger electrification programme in the North West. When the North West electrification upgrades and network improvements are completed in 2019, they will deliver significant, long term benefits to passengers across the north of England.”
Managing director for Northern Rail, Alex Hynes said: “Being able to deliver these electric services to [the North] is the culmination of years of planning and will bring more seats, more space and improved journeys for our customers.”
This is the latest work to see around 200 rail tracks electrified in the North West as part of a £1 billion investment.
Network Rail claims that the electrification of the line provides passengers with a quieter, more reliable and spacious journey on the new trains. A fleet of 20 trains will be added to the route over the coming months.