US EditionNew Train Services From Carlisle to London Expected to Start in 2026
- FirstGroup plans to start new daily train services between London Euston and Stirling in mid-2026, operating under its Lumo brand.
- The launch, originally scheduled for 2025, has been postponed to mid-2026 as preparations continue with the acquisition of five Class 222 diesel units leased from Eversholt Rail and the completion of track access approvals.
- Services will include four daily return trips along the West Coast Main Line, stopping at key stations including Carlisle, Preston, and Milton Keynes.
- According to FirstGroup chief executive Graham Sutherland, each Class 222 train offers seating for approximately 340 passengers, with the new services anticipated to generate around £50 million in annual revenue and achieve an operating profit margin in the low double-digit range.
- This expansion will increase competition among operators, but Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander raised concerns about congestion and taxpayer impacts under the open access model.
9 Articles
9 Articles
‘Eurostar of Scotland’ launches new London service with 11 stops
The service will run from London Euston to Stirling, in Scotland (Picture: Getty Images) A new direct train from London to Scotland is set to launch in the spring of 2026. Operated by Lumo, the service will stop at 11 stations, with five daily trains running each way. Departing from London Euston, the train will journey through central Scotland, arriving in Stirling. It will be the first time three of the destinations – Whifflet, Greenfaulds and…
Open access is 'key priority,' says Firstgroup boss
Firstgroup is pushing ahead with plans to expand its open access offering despite fears over a government clampdown. The transport giant on Monday announced it had leased five Class 222, six car diesel trains after signing an agreement with rolling stock firm Eversholt Rail. It intends for the 340-seat trains to be used on a new open access service between London Euston and Stirling, which is expected to launch in 2026. The route will be operate…
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