A PROGRAMME of digital upgrades on trains serving the Bradford district has been welcomed by a rail users group.
Northern’s programme of digital upgrades to its fleet is continuing apace with its Class 333 trains the latest to offer an improved experience to customers.
Enhancements include the installation of high-definition CCTV cameras, USB charging points and plug sockets as well as brighter LED lighting and digital display screens that provide customers with real-time information.
The trains, which operate services from Skipton to Bradford Forster Square and from Leeds to Ilkley, are the latest carriages to undergo the digital makeover, which is part of a wider, multi-million-pound investment programme to enhance customer journeys with new trains and better stations.
Tricia Williams, chief operating officer at Northern, said: “It’s fantastic to add the Class 333 trains to the roll call of refurbished units out on the network.”
Tim Calow, chair of the Airedale Rail Users Group, welcomed the upgrades.
He said: “They haven’t had USB chargers so that is something that would be very handy.
“The improved CCTV should aid in the prosecution of incidents of aggressive behaviour. They are good trains but these are some useful improvements.
“Northern introduced 16 new, four-coach trains in the year 2000, replacing some electric trains that had been handed down.
“They have been serving us for the last 22 years,” added Mr Calow. “They have been good, reliable trains over the years. We’ve been happy with them.”
Ms Williams added: “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to delivering further improvements for our passengers to enjoy.
“I am grateful to our partners across the industry, including Angel Trains, Yellow Rail and our own team at Northern, who have worked hard to deliver the refurbishments and I look forward to seeing more and more refurbished carriages take to the rails in the coming months.”
Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with nearly 2,000 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.
