THE first electric trains cascaded from Thameslink went into service with Northern this morning. The start was three days later than planned, because inspectors from the ORR are understood to have voiced last-minute concerns about some aspects of the overhead line equipment.
However, the green light was given for the launch of public services after successful test runs.
Eight electric services a day will run between Manchester and Liverpool via Newton-le-Willows.
The 06.16 Liverpool Lime Street to Manchester Airport service was the first train to use the newly electrified route following the completion of work by Network Rail.
The trains launched today are first of a new fleet of 20 which will be introduced on the route in coming months.
Martin Frobisher, route managing director for Network Rail, said: “This first electric train to travel between Liverpool Lime Street and Manchester Airport signifies the completion of the latest stage of a much bigger electrification programme in the north west.
“When the north west electrification upgrades and network improvements are completed in 2019 they will deliver significant, long term benefits to passengers across the north of England.”
Alex Hynes, managing director for Northern said: “What an exciting time for our customers in the north west! Being able to deliver these electric services to them is the culmination of years of planning and will bring more seats, more space and improved journeys for our customers.”