Move of ex-TransPennine Express Mk 5As to Chiltern edges closer

A plan to replace locomotive-hauled Mk 3 coaches on Chiltern Railways with newer Mk 5A stock displaced from TransPennine Express is awaiting the submission of a Final Business Case. 

Introduced in 2019, the Mk 5A stock is compatible with the current Class 68 diesel locomotives used on the Chiltern route. Since their withdrawal by TPE in December 2023, the 66 CAF-built coaches have been in store.

Chiltern, which is currently refurbishing its 26-year-old Class 168 diesel multiple units (RAIL 1020), has been looking at replacement stock options.

In a Commons debate about capacity/overcrowding issues on Chiltern Railways, Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said: “Chiltern’s business case assesses both like-for-like and enhanced capacity rolling stock options.

“Like-for-like offers similar capacity to the current fleet, but more modern trains. Enhanced capacity would enable Chiltern to run more services to relieve crowding. 

“Both options are still under consideration ahead of further market engagement. A final decision will be made taking into consideration value for money and affordability.

“Chiltern is exploring options to expedite its procurement of additional trains while following robust assurance steps to ensure that it has a strong business case that delivers value for money for the taxpayer.”

Chiltern has previously called for market interest in new bi-mode diesel multiple units, but this was shelved on cost grounds. It is understood that the addition of some Class 170 DMUs, cascaded from other operators, is an option. 

In 2015, Chiltern received nine two-car units from First TPE, which were modified to become Class 168/3s compliant with the rest of the fleet.