Consortium Agility Trains has been awarded a £7.5 billion contract to build a new fleet of Super Express trains by the government.

Those in engineering jobs at the firm will be responsible for building and maintaining the new fleet, which will replace current high-speed trains on the Great Western and East Coast mainlines.

Up to 12,500 manufacturing jobs are expected to be created in these regions as a result of the project, which will include the construction of a new train manufacturing plant and depots throughout the UK.

The first new trains will enter service in 2013, with the fleet entering full service from 2015.

Transport secretary Geoff Hoon said: "It is good news for the British economy that over 12,500 jobs will be created and safeguarded.

"Good news for the regions that the government is supporting significant inward investment; and good news for passengers that we are taking the steps necessary to improve their rail journeys."

Meanwhile, Carillion has been awarded a seven-year contract valued at £80 million to maintain the East London Line on the London Underground.


© Adfero Ltd

More Essential News