Rail operator celebrates regional trains refurb milestone

East Midlands Railway has reached a significant milestone in its regional fleet transformation programme.

The firm, which is operated by Transport UK, has now introduced 10 fully refurbished trains into its regional network as part of a £60 million modernisation programme.

The milestone includes seven Class 170 trains and three Class 158 trains.

The programme forms part of a longer-term commitment by EMR and Transport UK to deliver sustainable, practical improvements for customers.

The refurbished Class 170 trains are part of a £23 million overhaul of EMR’s 44-strong fleet.

The transformation includes completely redesigned interiors featuring brand-new and refurbished seats and tables, modern power and charging facilities including plug sockets and USB points, refurbished toilets, upgraded flooring, and a newly installed passenger information system providing clearer, more accurate journey updates.

At the same time, EMR’s Class 158 trains are receiving a comprehensive £5 million refresh designed to extend their lifespan and enhance the onboard environment.

Upgrades include new seat foams and covers, new tabletops, carpets and vestibule flooring, enhanced CCTV and passenger information systems, as well as refreshed branding and repainting.

The refurbished trains are already operating on key regional routes across the East Midlands and beyond, including services linking Nottingham, Derby, Sheffield, Lincoln, Cleethorpes and Liverpool.

Meanwhile, the Class 360 fleet, which operates the EMR Connect service, is also undergoing refurbishment, with the first unit expected to enter service later this year.

Simon Pready, commercial director at East Midlands Railway, said: “This is an important milestone for our regional and connect refurbishment programme.

“Seeing 10 refurbished trains now back in service reflects the disciplined, delivery-focused approach Transport UK is taking to modernising our fleet.

“These upgrades are not just about new interiors – they are about delivering better outcomes for our customers, with more comfortable, accessible and reliable journeys.

“With many more trains currently being upgraded, customers will continue to see further improvements across our network in the months ahead.”