East Midlands Railway Unveils £27.6 Million Upgrade for EMR Connect Services
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has announced a significant £27.6 million upgrade to its EMR Connect services, which is expected to greatly enhance the travel experience for passengers. This development aims to benefit travelers on routes between Corby and London St Pancras, including key stops at Kettering, Wellingborough, Bedford, Luton, and Luton Airport Parkway.
The planned improvements include new 2+2 seating arrangements featuring a mix of airline-style and bay seats, designed to increase comfort for all types of travelers. Additional enhancements such as improved luggage storage space and an updated CCTV system will also be introduced to ensure a safer and more convenient journey.
For those traveling to and from London Luton Airport, the EMR Luton Airport Express service remains a key highlight. The service offers a fast, convenient, and environmentally friendly way to reach the airport, with journey times from central London taking as little as 32 minutes and fares starting at £10. With departures every 30 minutes, the service operates from early morning to late at night, Monday to Saturday, with regular services on Sundays.
London Luton Airport, one of the UK's major international airports, serves millions of passengers annually. It offers flights to a wide range of destinations across Europe and beyond, making it a crucial hub for both business and leisure travelers. The improvements to the EMR Connect services will particularly benefit airport passengers, providing a seamless and comfortable journey to and from the airport. This is expected to reduce travel stress, save time, and enhance the overall airport experience.Simon Pready, Commercial Director for East Midlands Railway, emphasized that the £27.6 million refurbishment of the Class 360 train will bring transformative benefits to passengers, offering more convenience, comfort, and improved facilities, thereby enhancing the overall travel experience.
Alberto Martin, CEO of London Luton Airport, noted that the investment will significantly improve the Luton Airport Express service for passengers. The upgrades will increase comfort, provide better facilities, and incorporate modernized technology, making the service more attractive for those seeking a quick and reliable connection to the airport.
Sambit Banerjee, Siemens Mobility Joint CEO UK & Ireland, highlighted the dedication of Siemens Mobility teams in ensuring these improvements are implemented effectively. This project will enhance both the passenger environment and the technology used, transforming the travel experience.