Network Rail has announced that a test train along the newly electrified railway between Manchester and Preston made its final journey overnight to complete checks for the arrival of 100mph services later this year.
In the early hours of the 22nd February, the last electric high-speed train ran on the newly upgraded route thanks to the Great North Rail Project.
Engineers made their final inspections to the track and new overhead lines while on-board the test train from Preston to Manchester Victoria.
The results of the tests will be checked before being verified by the Office of Rail and Road, after which 100mph services can run on the route later this year.
What did the officials say?
Mark Ashton, sponsor for Network Rail, said:
“Following the successful introduction of electric passenger trains on the Manchester to Preston railway last week, last night we completed our last test as part of the project to allow trains to run up to 100mph.
“High speed testing of the overhead wires will support the introduction of greener, faster and more frequent trains – a key aim of the Great North Rail Project to help transform rail travel across the North.
“I would like to thank local people for their patience while we have completed this transformational upgrade.”
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Responses
I’m amazed that they got a 319 up to 100mph – it’s not easy!
At least it’s done now time to help the north east out with new trains and to improve the line up here
Does that mean Class 319s are now in service operating between Manchester Victoria-Bolton and Preston. If so about time it should be introduced in passenger service.
I believe the 319s are in passenger service at speeds of 75mph, this is testing for 100mph passenger service.
Regards
Michael