The twentieth and final refurbished Class 156 train arrived in Scotland
on 16 November 2007 completing a £2.7m Transport Scotland investment in more attractive
and comfortable services for passengers.
The train is part of a fleet of 20 trains refurbished to benefit
passengers on the West Highland Line and in Strathclyde.
The final refurbished train will be taken from the Bombardier factory in
Derby to First ScotRail's Corkerhill Depot in Glasgow, where it will be
maintained when not in passenger use.
The vehicles, owned by the train leasing company Angel Trains, have been
revamped in a project funded by both Angel Trains and Transport Scotland.
Forming part of a wider Transport Scotland £20m national rail investment
programme, the twenty Class 156 trains will enhance the travel experience
and accessibility for passengers.
With upgraded seating, table tops, lighting and furnishings, additional
wheelchair space and carpeting throughout, the refurbished trains offer a
range of improved on-board facilities to rail travellers.
George Davidson, Transport Scotland's Rolling Stock Manager, said:"We are delighted to see the delivery of the final Class 156 refurbished
train. This £2.7m Transport Scotland investment is good news for
passengers and is part of our overall commitment to improve rail
services."
Peter Williams, Commercial Director at First ScotRail, added: "Customers travelling on these refurbished trains are now benefiting from
a number of enhancements designed to improve the overall level of comfort
and convenience during their journey. We will continue to work alongside
Transport Scotland to deliver further enhancements both on trains and at
stations."
Gary Porter, Head of Project Delivery for Angel Trains said:"Our successful management of this project has resulted in the early
completion of the second phase, getting these trains getting back on the
tracks two weeks early."
The final Class 156 upgrade comes into service next week, bringing
benefits to passengers on the West Highland Line and within Strathclyde.
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