We have advised TransPennine Express (TPE) on a landmark £1 billion investment in Britain’s first mainline battery-electric train fleet, supporting a transformative project that will improve regional connectivity, enhance accessibility and help accelerate the decarbonisation of the UK’s railway network. The project forms part of the wider Transpennine Route Upgrade programme and represents one of the most significant investments in UK rail infrastructure currently underway.
The new fleet of 29 five-car battery-electric trains, together with associated maintenance services, depot facilities and charging infrastructure, will be delivered through contracts signed between TransPennine Express and Alstom. Funded by rail investor Rock Rail, the new trains will become Britain’s first mainline battery-electric fleet and will support services linking major towns and cities across northern England, including Liverpool, Manchester, York, Hull, Scarborough and Saltburn.
Designed to provide increased passenger capacity and improved customer experience, the trains will feature enhanced accessibility measures, including level boarding, alongside improved onboard facilities such as additional luggage space, power and USB-C charging, Wi-Fi, cycle storage and upgraded passenger information systems.
Burges Salmon advised TransPennine Express on all aspects of the project including the development of the procurement strategy for the new fleet and associated long-term maintenance arrangements, the financing structure for the fleet, from early market engagement throughout the competitive tender processes and contract award. The firm supported the project from inception through to completion, working closely with TransPennine Express throughout the complex procurement and financing process.
The Burges Salmon team was led by partner Brioney Thomas and included specialists from the firm’s Projects, Transport, Rail and Procurement teams comprising solicitors Liam Edwards and Zoe Williams, trainee solicitor Luke Howie, partner John Houlden and director Rory Trust.
