Final tests completed for 100mph Preston to Manchester trains

A test train along the newly electrified railway between Preston and Manchester made its final journey overnight to complete checks for the arrival of 100mph services in May.
Engineers making final tests on the new Preston to Manchester route. Images and video courtesy of Network RailEngineers making final tests on the new Preston to Manchester route. Images and video courtesy of Network Rail
Engineers making final tests on the new Preston to Manchester route. Images and video courtesy of Network Rail

Engineers are preparing the line for faster more frequent trains on the route as part of the multi-billion pound Great North Rail Project.

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Final high-speed inspections to the track and new overhead lines were also made by rail engineers while on-board the test train from Preston to Manchester Victoria.

Engineers making final tests on the new Preston to Manchester route. Images and video courtesy of Network RailEngineers making final tests on the new Preston to Manchester route. Images and video courtesy of Network Rail
Engineers making final tests on the new Preston to Manchester route. Images and video courtesy of Network Rail
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Mark Ashton, sponsor for Network Rail, said: “Following the successful introduction of electric passenger trains on the Manchester to Preston railway last week, last night we completed our last test as part of the project to allow trains to run up to 100mph.

“High speed testing of the overhead wires will support the introduction of greener, faster and more frequent trains - a key aim of the Great North Rail Project to help transform rail travel across the North.

"I would like to thank local people for their patience while we have completed this transformational upgrade.”

The results of the tests will be thoroughly checked before being verified by the Office of Rail and Road, after which 100mph services can run on the route when new timetables come into effect in May.