Bombardier lands £250m deal to keep CrossCountry trains on track

DERBY train-maker Bombardier Transportation has landed a contract extension worth almost £250 million, which will see it continue to maintain Arriva CrossCountry trains.

The firm has signed a three-year extension to its existing deal, with an option of a further extension of up to one year.

Matt Byrne, UK president at Bombardier Transportation, said: “We are delighted that we have reached agreement to maintain the Voyager and Super Voyager fleet for Arriva CrossCountry.

“This important contract extension is a reflection of our excellent relationship with Arriva, and the hard work and professionalism of our team who deliver day in, day out for Britain’s vitally important CrossCountry network.”

The deal will see Bombardier continue to service and clean a fleet of 34 Class 220 Voyagers and 24 Class 221 Super Voyagers at its Central Rivers depot, near Burton, and across the CrossCountry network, which stretches from Aberdeen, in Scotland, to Penzance, in Cornwall.

Tom Joyner, managing director at Arriva CrossCountry, said: “We’re really pleased to continue our relationship with Bombardier to maintain our Voyager and Super Voyager fleet. The Voyagers are a key part of our fleet, operating across the length and breadth of Great Britain. As a long-distance operator of choice, we have a vital role to play in strengthening our connections between our towns and cities and look forward to working closely with Bombardier to deliver to our customers.”

Under the Train Services Agreement, maintenance, overhaul and cleaning of the class 220 and class 221 fleet will take place at Central Rivers, with heavy component maintenance taking place at Bombardier Crewe.