If Grand Central receives approval to operate services beyond 2016 it plans to replace its HSTs with Class 180 Adelantes.
As an open-access train operator, Grand Central operates under a Track Access Contract approved by the Office of Rail Regulation. The current 28 day consultation period will seek views on the extension of Grand Central’s current contract until 2026.
Says Richard McClean, Managing Director of Grand Central, ‘Over the next few years, we plan to make very significant investments in our train fleet and supporting stations and infrastructure. We are applying to extend our current Track Access Contract for ten years as we want the opportunity to grow and improve our service for Grand Central’s passengers and communities.’
Other plans include bringing a further platform at Hartlepool back into use. Grand Central became part of the Arriva group which is owned by Deutsche Bahn in 2011.
Where are Grand Central going to get these extra 180’s from?