EMR Reveals £28.2 Million Refurbishment for Regional Trains

East Midlands Railway (EMR) has announced a £28.2 million refurbishment project for its Class 170 and Class 158 trains, releasing the first images of the planned upgrades. This significant investment aims to improve the travel experience for regional commuters and leisure travelers alike.

The enhancements include new seat foams and covers, refreshed interiors, and upgraded passenger information systems and CCTV. These improvements are expected to provide a more comfortable and consistent journey for passengers across the fleet. The goal is to create a uniform and modernized look for all trains, ensuring a better overall travel experience.

The Class 170 trains, serving routes such as Matlock to Derby and Nottingham, and Nottingham to Worksop via Mansfield, will be among the first to benefit from these upgrades. Other routes include Newark Castle to Crewe via Nottingham, Derby and Stoke-on-Trent, Peterborough to Doncaster via Lincoln, and several more. These trains, previously operated by different companies, will now offer a uniform and enhanced experience, making travel more comfortable for passengers.

Similarly, the Class 158 fleet, primarily operating on the Liverpool to Norwich route, will receive new seat covers and foams, a refreshed interior, and upgraded safety systems. These changes are designed to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for all passengers. The upgrades aim to provide a consistent level of comfort and quality across all EMR services.

EMR, a subsidiary of Abellio, operates a variety of train services across the East Midlands and beyond. Known for its regional, intercity, and local services, EMR connects major cities like London, Sheffield, and Nottingham with smaller towns and rural areas. The company focuses on providing efficient, reliable, and comfortable travel options, catering to both daily commuters and occasional travelers. This refurbishment project is part of their broader strategy to continually enhance the quality of their services and infrastructure.

Simon Pready, the Commercial Director for East Midlands Railway, emphasized that the refurbishment will bring significant improvements in convenience, comfort, and facilities for customers. The investment also supports the UK’s rail industry, with all the work being carried out by local companies. This highlights EMR's dedication to both passenger satisfaction and the growth of the local economy.

Porterbrook COO Ben Ackroyd highlighted the importance of enhancing the fleet to meet passenger needs while supporting the UK's supply chain. The investment in the Class 170 and Class 158 trains is expected to provide a better on-board service for EMR’s customers, ensuring that the trains meet modern standards of comfort and safety. This commitment to quality is crucial for maintaining a high level of service.

Eversholt Rail's Paul Sutherland and Angel Trains' David Jordan also stressed their dedication to improving the travel experience for EMR’s customers through these upgrades. Their collaborative efforts with EMR aim to deliver multiple benefits and enhanced experiences for those who travel by rail. The refurbishment project is seen as a vital step in ensuring that passengers have a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

For travelers, these upgrades are a welcome development, promising a better and more consistent travel experience across the East Midlands. With the refurbishment project set to enhance both comfort and convenience, passengers can look forward to a more enjoyable journey on EMR’s regional services. The improvements underscore EMR’s commitment to providing high-quality service and meeting the needs of its passengers.