New trains for Cambridge commuters launched by Greater Anglia
Greater Anglia has launched new state-of-the-art trains between Cambridge and Norwich – one of the busiest regional routes on the network.
The bi-mode trains, which can run on diesel or electricity, were tested by VIP guests from Cambridgeshire and Norfolk who took a journey on one of the new trains on Friday (September 27).
A celebration was also held at Cambridge railway station where Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia managing director, Daniel Zeichner MP and James Palmer, mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough gave speeches.
The modern, longer bi-mode trains are now in service on three routes on the Greater Anglia network – Norwich to Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and Cambridge – just three years after the contract was signed to buy 58 trains from Swiss manufacturer, Stadler.
Mr Burles said: “The Cambridge-Norwich route is one of our busiest regional routes, with increases in passenger numbers reflecting the growth of both cities. The line is busy with commuters going to work but also with students from the towns and villages served along the route going to school, college and university in Norwich and Cambridge.
“Our new trains are longer, with more seats, and facilities to help passengers make the most of their travel time, such as plug and USB points and free fast wifi.
“These are intercity quality trains on a regional route – and appropriate for a line which travels between East Anglia’s two biggest cities.”
Greater Anglia is getting 38 bi-mode trains – 24 four-carriage trains and 14 three-carriage trains – which will run between Norwich and Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, Cambridge and Sheringham; Ipswich and Cambridge, Felixstowe, Lowestoft, and Peterborough; and Marks Tey and Sudbury. In addition, the company is also receiving 20 electric trains from Stadler, 10 for the intercity route between Norwich and London Liverpool Street and 10 for the Stansted Express service between London Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport.
A further 111 electric commuter trains from Bombardier, procured by Angel Trains, will run into Liverpool Street from Cambridge, Hertfordshire, Essex and Suffolk.
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