The first
phase of the Liverpool-Manchester electrification, between Newton-le-Willows
and Castlefield Junction went live on 30 December, with the introduction into
service of the first Class 350 with Transpennine Express. The next section to
Liverpool is due to be completed by next December, as is the line from Huyton
to Wigan. The Preston to Blackpool line is due to be electrified by 2016, as is
the Preston-Manchester (via Bolton) line and the Manchester-Leeds via
Stalybridge route. Wigan-Bolton electrification is slated for 2017.
Oxenholme-Windermere is currently at the planning stage.
But campaigners
want more. The Halifax and District Rail Action Group (HADRAG) are calling for
the electrification of the Calder valley line, which links Leeds and Manchester
via Halifax and Rochdale. This line parallels the Stalybridge route and is used
as a diversionary route by Transpennine Express trains.
Going east
of Leeds, First Hull Trains are pushing for the electrification of the route to
Hull. The city is due to become UK capital of culture in 2017, and it is an
important port.
The long
overdue electrification of these lines in the north of England will displace slow and
uncomfortable Pacer railbuses from these routes, and provide faster, more comfortable
and more environmentally-friendly train services.
