TransPennine Express starts electric-powered running between Manchester Victoria and Stalybridge

TransPennine Express’ Class 802 bi-mode units are now running on electric power between Manchester Victoria and Stalybridge.

The 0945 to Newcastle on Monday December 2 became the first train to depart heading towards Leeds and York using the overhead catenary.

The switch to electric power is part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU), which will eventually lead to the whole route between Manchester and York being electrified. The next section, between Church Fenton and the East Coast Main Line at Colton Junction, is due to be completed in 2025.

Track upgrades at Miles Platting, a quicker junction at Stalybridge, and new signals that allow for trains to run closer together are also helping to improve services. TransPennine Express is also reintroducing its four trains an hour express service between Manchester Victoria and Leeds from the December timetable change.