On track for peak performance (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Peak time rail capacity to go up between Basingstoke and Reading

10:00am Wednesday 8th February 2012 in Local By Simon Moss

TRAIN capacity between Basingstoke and Reading will be beefed up by 12 per cent at peak times – thanks to investment from rail operator First Great Western.

The first of two Class 150 trains, which previously served London Midland, began operating on weekday commuter services along the route on January 30. The other is expected to be in operation by the end of February.

Pictures of the train chugging along its new route were captured by Marion and David Canning, well-known railway photographers based in Aldermaston.

Mr Canning praised First Great Western for bringing the carriages into use. He said: “I feel they are a big improvement, although older, as the extra coach will help a lot. The newest is not always the best – it was quite a smooth ride and the seats are nice and comfortable.”

The new trains are an answer to increased demand for First Great Western services, according to bosses.

First Great Western managing director Mark Hopwood explained: “While that demand is gratifying in one respect, it has put real pressure on the capacity of some of our services, particularly at peak times.

“I am pleased we have been able to deliver these investments for our customers, even as we approach the final year of the current franchise.

“We have been working closely with the Department for Transport for some time to find a way to deliver that extra capacity for customers, and I am delighted we were able to reach a new deal and deliver extra seats for Basingstoke commuters.”