Record 125mph reached on Midland Main Line test run

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An East Midlands Trains Class 222 Meridian has been run at record speed on the Midland Main Line in preparation of the line speed being raised in time for the December 2013 timetable change.

Network Rail and East Midlands Trains operated the diesel train at 125mph on a short stretch between Bedford and Ampthill.

Network Rail is working to increase the 110mph limit on the line from spring 2014 to reduce the journey time between Sheffield and London to under two hours, and to examine the pressure waves and aerodynamic effects of running trains at such a speed.

Network Rail’s route managing director Martin Frobisher said: “Work carried out on test runs like these won’t just be used on this stretch of railway but will be used in many future rail projects.”

Prior to the timetable change some footpaths will be closed, track replaced and a major tamping programme will be undertaken.

The main focus of the test runs on July 1 was to determine the view of signals from the footplate at such high speed and the smoothness of ride from inside the carriages.

The Midland Main Line is one of Network Rail’s priorities for electrification. The Government will announce whether it will be funded for electrification during CP5 in the upcoming HLOS.

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