The fleet improvement programme is one of the first major passenger-focused initiatives following Thameslink’s transfer into public ownership.
Thameslink has begun a £3.6 million fleet refresh programme aimed at improving passenger experience across its network, with work under way on all 115 Class 700 trains.
The investment will see more than 1,140 carriages receive a comprehensive makeover, including exterior polishing, refurbished toilets and deep cleaning. The programme is being delivered through a partnership between Greater Thameslink Railway (GTR) and Siemens Mobility, with funding provided by the Department for Transport and GTR.
As part of the project, engineers are restoring 46 kilometres of train exteriors to their original white finish. Interior improvements include repainting toilets, installing new wall vinyls designed to deter graffiti and make cleaning easier, and carrying out deep steam cleaning throughout the fleet at the Three Bridges depot in Sussex.
Thameslink fleet refresh supports passenger improvements
The programme forms part of a wider passenger improvement plan being introduced following GTR’s transfer into public ownership on 31 May.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: “These improvements show how passengers are being prioritised under public ownership and, as we move towards Great British Railways, making sure that travelling by train is a comfortable and positive experience.”
He added: “This refresh on Thameslink services is just the start. Under public ownership, passengers not shareholders will be prioritised to deliver a safer, cleaner and more reliable railway.”
GTR Interim Chief Executive Officer John Whitehurst said: “Boosting customer satisfaction is a priority for us, so we’re delighted to bring tangible improvements to our Thameslink train fleet which passengers will really appreciate.”
Aglaja Schneider, Joint Chief Executive Officer at Siemens Mobility UKI, said: “Thameslink passengers deserve a quality experience on board, and together we’re making that a reality across all 115 trains.”
The fleet refresh is one of several initiatives planned ahead of the formal creation of Great British Railways, expected by the end of 2027. Other improvements include plans to increase services between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria from December, helping deliver greater capacity and connectivity across the network.
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