Porterbrook has opened the UK’s first electrified loop of railway track designed specifically for testing railway vehicles.

The loop is 3.5 km long and has been installed at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire. It was officially opened yesterday, Thursday, 4th June, by the Rail Minister Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, who cut a ceremonial ribbon. Joining Lord Hendy at the opening were Porterbrook CEO Mary Grant, social media content creator Francis Bourgeois, and hundreds of spectators, including representatives from across the railway, Network Rail apprentices, and children from a local primary school who had previously taken part in an inspirational Rail Project at the site.

Porterbrook, which has invested over £75m to create a 135-acre world-leading facility at the site, is the UK’s leading rolling stock financier and asset management company. During the last five years, it has invested over £1bn in new trains, upgrading fleets, traction innovations, and rail infrastructure. The company also invested over £14m to build and test HydroFLEX, the country’s first passenger train powered by hydrogen, and has ensured it has a part in the vital supply chain by taking a 49% stake in Brodie Engineering in Scotland.

As well as the official opening of the electrified test track, Porterbrook unveiled a new company branding, which emphasises its belief that the future of rail is by working stronger together. It also renewed its commitment to continue working with industry partners to pursue innovation and drive excellence for passengers.

“The Rail Innovation Centre at Long Marston is a brilliant initiative which will support the next generation of trains in Britain. It was an honour to launch the centre’s new testing loop today and as a passenger, I look forward to travelling on the trains that have benefitted from being tested at the site. This kind of innovation is exactly what we want to see as we move towards Great British Railways so we can build a railway fit for the future which the public can rely on, and be proud of.”

Rail Minister, Peter, Lord Hendy

“Long Marston is for the benefit of the whole industry. A site tailor-made for innovation that demonstrates how private capital can work hand-in-hand with Great British Railways to deliver an exceptional service to the travelling public. We’re making clear, long-term commitments to UK rail, not just as a financier, but as a genuine partner adding value now and for the future.”

Porterbrook CEO, Mary Grant