The first Class 700 Desiro City train for Thameslink has arrived in the UK for testing.
The first train arrived at the new Three Bridges maintenance depot in the early hours of July 31, having been hauled from Germany through the Channel Tunnel.
Testing will now begin, ready for the start of passenger service in spring 2016.
The new trains, combined with the redevelopment of London Bridge and an upgraded signalling system, will allow operator GTR to run 24 trains an hour on the Thameslink route through central London.
Rail Minister Claire Perry said:Â “The arrival of this first train is a huge step forward for the Government-sponsored Thameslink Programme, which is creating thousands of jobs across the country and is a vital part of our long-term economic plan.”
Iain Smith, programme director of the Thameslink Rolling Stock Project at Siemens, said: “The arrival of the first train into Three Bridges is a real milestone for Thameslink and is a hugely exciting moment for us at Siemens.
“It signifies major progress towards the transformation of the Thameslink services, a step change in the passenger experience and a real sense of the future.
“We will now be focussed on testing and commissioning the train, while GTR trains drivers and maintenance staff to ensure that everything is ready for the start of service next year.”
By next year all Class 700’s will be transferred to the UK and to start operating between Bedford-Brighton, Bedford-Wimbledon & Luton-Wimbledon services and soon it will start a new service including Cambridge-Brighton & Wimbledon, Peterborough-Brighton & Wimbledon and Weleyn Garden City-Wimbledon services from late 2016/early 2017. With the Class 319’s cascaded to Northern Rail, First Great Western and London Midland.
Andrew you keep spurting absolute garbage of knowledge on here, its not confirmed at all. Next you will be saying there will be class 700’s on the greater Anglia routes
Did I say about the Class 700’s to be used on the Greater Anglia routes. No! I talk how I was made to talk ok. So cant stand me. Dont even reply back to me. Simples.
Abellio Greater Anglia may not get new trains until 2022 or 2023 as the Class 321’s & Class 317’s are to be refurbished.
What the devil are you on about? I’ve told you already that there are no Class 319s going to First Great Western. Thameslink preparations and the Class 700s will not be finished until 2018. Have you even read the service plan?
Never knew there was a service plan. But ok I am talking like I have no idea and yes to be fair I don’t need your input.
You’re right, you don’t have any idea. Please, if you’re such a train fanatic, do a bit of reading into current news.
OH SO I DONT KNOW ABOUT TRANSPORT! MAYBE YOU SHOULD F OFF AND LEAVE ME THE HELL ALONE THEN!