Train operator Northern has confirmed it will introduce 37 refurbished Class 350 trains onto its network across Greater Manchester and the north west of England, as part of a £25m upgrade project. The new trains will begin replacing the existing Class 323 vehicles from early 2028.
Improved features for passengers
Passengers will benefit from air conditioning, more carriages and luggage racks, as well as at-seat sockets on many routes for the first time. The trains will also feature Variable Rate Sander (VRS) technology, which can reduce the train's stopping distance by up to 50 per cent, helping to keep services running reliably in slippery autumn and winter conditions.
Northern said the refurbished trains are part of a bid to ensure passengers have a more comfortable journey when travelling across the region.
Industry and government backing
Tricia Williams, Managing Director at Northern, said: "The introduction of these trains is fantastic news for our customers across the North West. These trains are much newer than the trains they are replacing, which are now reaching the end of their working lives."
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: "Passengers across Manchester and the North West deserve a railway that is reliable, comfortable and fit for the future. These refurbished trains will deliver immediate improvements, with more space, air conditioning and greater reliability."
Mary Grant, CEO at Porterbrook, said: "This excellent train fleet will reliably serve Northern's passengers for many years to come. The Class 350s are consistently amongst the top performing trains on the network, and our £25m investment ensures they'll be equipped with all the modern features needed for a comfortable and dependable journey."
Upgrade and maintenance plans
Aglaja Schneider, Joint CEO and Managing Director, Rolling Stock and Customer Services at Siemens Mobility UK&I, said: "It is great to see the refurbished 350/2 fleet moving over to Northern, which will deliver real benefits for passengers travelling across Manchester and the wider North-West."
Once the interior and exterior upgrade is completed at the train modification centre in Northampton, the trains will be maintained out of the Ardwick depot, ensuring they are ready for passenger journeys across the North.
