Andrew recently met with Graham Meiklejohn, Head of Communications at First TransPennine Express to discuss TransPennine’s new franchise and improvements to the service across our area.
First Trans Pennine Express Limited was awarded the TransPennine Express franchise last December (2015) and will operate services here from April 2016 until March 2023.
Andrew was informed that TransPennine Express are planning a number of improvements across the network, including spending £1 million on refurbished trains along the Cleethorpes – Manchester route. Passengers will be able to enjoy at-seat power, free Wi-Fi and extra seating on longer trains. This upgrade is expected to start by end of this year, with full completion by 2019.
The Hull - Manchester route will also see a full refurbishment of the trains on that route, as well as £1.4 million being spent to improve ticketing and customer information at Hull station. The improvements on this route are due to happen this year.
Both routes, north and south, will see the doubling of Sunday services and more trains running earlier and later. Weekend services will also more closely mirror weekday services.
Andrew says, “I’ve been watching progress with local rail services very closely and I met with train operators last year to push for improved services as part of the new franchises. This investment should help bring these trains up to the standard that passengers locally expect and deserve.
It was explained to me that the Class 185 trains work better for these TransPeninne routes due to acceleration, so the new AT 300s won't be used on them, however, the interior will be identical to enhance the journey for passengers.
I was able to raise the issue of recently cancelled services which have been raised by a number of residents and the Parish Council in Wrawby. This has been caused by the on-going driver dispute, which they are currently working to resolve. I also raised concerns about parking at Barnetby and Howden, which residents often write to me about.”
