Buying process for Crossrail trains starts today
THE Crossrail project reached a major milestone today as the procurement process to purchase new trains got underway. The capital cost of new Crossrail rolling stock and depot facilities is in the region of �1 billion.
To deliver Crossrail services to the 37 stations along the route, which include Whitechapel and Canary Wharf, around 60 new trains will be required.
Each train will be will be around 200 metres in length and able to carry up to 1,500 passengers.
Rob Holden, Crossrail Chief Executive, said: “With construction gathering pace it is now time to focus on the trains that will deliver the Crossrail service and transform the experience of commuters and rail users.
“Crossrail will be a high frequency metro system with up to 24 trains per hour between Paddington and Whitechapel during the peak. The rolling stock that will operate will need to be high capacity and accommodate the needs of passengers travelling from further afield as well as those joining and alighting in the central area. We aim to benefit from, and build upon, the existing capabilities of the rolling stock industry rather than requiring a wholly new concept or design.”
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The intention is for the operation of Crossrail services to be let as a concession by TfL London Rail, similar to the concession let by Transport for London for the London Overground.
Mayor of London, Boris Johnson said: “The importance of this project to London and the UK cannot be overstated. With the invitation now being made to companies to build our brand new trains and the Government throwing its full weight behind the project, all signals are showing green for Crossrail.”
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Once complete, Crossrail will be the largest addition to the transport network in London and the South East for 50 years and will help an extra 1.5 million people to access London’s major employment centres.
Howard Smith, Chief Operating Officer, TfL London Rail, said: “The procurement of rolling stock will bring the Crossrail project to life for many Londoners and is a significant step forward. London needs additional transport capacity to relieve congestion on the existing Tube and National Rail networks and Crossrail will provide that much-needed boost. London Rail is looking forward to working with Crossrail to deliver the new rail service for London and the South East.”
