Plans to give rail passengers in the north of England more seats, more services and a brand new fleet of modern trains were unveiled by British authorities, with the publication of the invitations to tender the Northern franchise and the TransPennine franchise. Bidders for the new Northern and TransPennine franchises will be required to replace outdated Pacer trains, introduce a brand new fleet of modern trains, tackle crowding, invest in stations, add over 200 new train services every day across both franchises, provide over one-third more capacity across both franchises and introduce free wi-fi.
“This is an historic moment for the north. Improving rail links in the region has been much anticipated. … Modernising rail in the north will encourage business, boost tourism and give commuters the journey they deserve; one that is fit for a 21st century metropolis,” Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said.
The Northern franchise operates local, commuter and rural services throughout the region, and a number of long distance services linking major cities such as Leeds, Sheffield, Nottingham, York, Manchester, Bradford, Preston and Blackpool.
The TransPeninne Express franchise provides longer distance intercity-type services, connecting the major cities of Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Hull, Liverpool, Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as Manchester Airport.
The deadline for submitting bids is 28 May 2015 for the TransPennine Express franchise and 26 June 2015 for Northern.
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