Today Arriva made known its rolling stock plan for the Glossop Line as from the start of its franchise in April 2016. The popular 323 electric units currently serving the line will remain until 2017. Then from 2017 to 2020 4 coach refurbished electric units will be used. These are likely to be the Class 319 units which are now appearing on newly electrified routes around Manchester. From 2020 new 4 coach electric units are scheduled for use.
We welcome the fact that the 323 units will continue to be used. Their acceleration is such that they are able to maintain the tight turn arounds needed in the current timetable and on the line's rising gradients. We also welcome the prospect of new trains from 2020. We do however remain concerned about the possible use of Class 319 trains on the Glossop Line from 2017. It is felt they may be unable to maintain current times - we published technical comparisons earlier this year on this site (click here to read the comparison) and alerted all concerned. We are now in regular discussion with Andrew Bingham High Peak MP, The High Peak and Hope Valley Community Rail Partnership and the South East Manchester Community Rail Partnership about this crucial issue and we will seek clarification from them and Arriva in the New Year.
We welcome the fact that the 323 units will continue to be used. Their acceleration is such that they are able to maintain the tight turn arounds needed in the current timetable and on the line's rising gradients. We also welcome the prospect of new trains from 2020. We do however remain concerned about the possible use of Class 319 trains on the Glossop Line from 2017. It is felt they may be unable to maintain current times - we published technical comparisons earlier this year on this site (click here to read the comparison) and alerted all concerned. We are now in regular discussion with Andrew Bingham High Peak MP, The High Peak and Hope Valley Community Rail Partnership and the South East Manchester Community Rail Partnership about this crucial issue and we will seek clarification from them and Arriva in the New Year.
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