Rail Minister, Northern and Network Rail to unveil Blackburn’s £23m train maintenance depot

• Date/time: 26/10/17 3.15pm – 4.45pm
• Location: Blackburn King Street Depot, Brunswick Street, Blackburn, BB2 1RF
• Available for interview:
  • Paul Maynard MP, Rail Minister
  • Liam Sumpter, Regional Director, Northern
  • Andy Morgan, Senior Sponsor, Network Rail
  • Ross Beard, Project Manager, Network Rail
  • Lauren Jones, Project Manager, Network Rail

Northern is to unveil a £23m train maintenance depot in Blackburn.

The depot, which was constructed by Network Rail, is a key part of the Great North Rail Project and will help maintain up to 30 Northern diesel trains.

Liam Sumpter, Regional Director for Northern, said “The electrification of the Preston to Blackpool line will have a significant impact on rail travel across Lancashire. The new depot will be a vital part of this work, freeing space for electric trains at other depots across the region.

“Not only will it provide a maintenance base for our diesel trains, it will also provide jobs for more than 100 people in the region.”

Liam added: “The depot is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through partnership work and I’m delighted to be able to welcome Rail Minister Paul Maynard to the official opening.”