September 28, 2010 1.29 pm This story is over 173 months old

Revamped trains depart Lincoln station

New trains: Passengers at Lincoln Central can now enjoy revamped carriages to Nottingham, Leicester, Skegness or Doncaster.

Cleaner, more fuel efficient trains have been introduced to the city by East Midlands Trains, with the first leaving Lincoln Central Station on Tuesday.

Lincolnshire County Council and East Midlands Trains teamed up to refurbish trains which pass through the city everyday.

The £5 million project saw the revamp of 11 Class 156 and 17 Class 153 carriages, which was carried out at the Neville Hill Depot in Leeds.

A new feature on the trains were CCTV cameras at various points in the carriages, mainly with safety in mind, as well as tackling any anti-social behaviour.

Other improvements included re-upholstered seating, new carpets, wall decor and vinyl in the toilet, and much improved lighting.

All the trains were also repainted with the East Midlands Trains’ colours as well as modifications, such as green DiesoLIFT 10 fuel.

The first refurbished train to be on the track was the 153 319, which travelled from Lincoln Central Station to Doncaster at 11.54am on October 28 (pictured).

Tim Sayer, Engineering Director for East Midlands Trains, said:  “This marks a significant moment in the development of East Midlands Trains.

“The launch of this train today follows fast on the heels of the £19 million refurbishment of our High Speed Trains and Class 158 trains, which has been very well received by our passengers.

“Our trains provide vital links for the local community and we’re confident the extensive improvement work to our Class 153 and 156 trains will result in a much better travelling environment that will also be welcomed by our passengers.”

Councillor Ken Milner, Executive Support Councillor for Lincolnshire County Council, added: “We want Lincolnshire to have the best public transport possible.

“This initiative will make train travel an even more attractive option for those making a journey.

“Ideally, this will encourage more people to leave the car behind and get on board a cleaner, greener mode of transport.”

The new trains will be used if you are travelling to Nottingham, Leicester, Skegness or Doncaster, from Tuesday, September 28.