Written Question: Northern Trains' Trains

Lord Moylan: To ask His Majesty's Government how many additional diesel multiple unit trains Northern Trains expects to receive from other operators in (1) 2026, and (2) 2027; and how many of those units are expected to be allocated to services on the Clitheroe to Manchester line.

Minister of State, Department for Transport (Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, CBE):

Northern is in continuing discussions with other operators and rolling stock owning companies about rolling stock that may become available as part of its work to improve fleet capacity and replace ageing trains. It will announce any new trains acquired as these are confirmed.

On 8 October 2026, Northern announced it was leasing 37 Class 350 electric trains to replace its Class 323 fleet and enhance the passenger experience on its electric routes around Manchester.

Where any additional stock is used is an operational matter for Northern, based on the demands on its services and the capacity of its depots and staff.