Lumo Reveals First Look at Refurbished Class 222 Trains

Lumo has unveiled the first look at its refurbished British Rail Class 222 fleet, showcasing a bold new livery ahead of the launch of its West Coast services this spring.

The trains, currently undergoing refurbishment at Alstom’s Widnes facility in partnership with Beacon Rail, have been finished in the operator’s distinctive blue branding. Alongside the exterior overhaul, interior upgrades include refreshed seating and the introduction of new grey and silver designs in selected coaches.

The first images of the revamped fleet were presented to invited guests at the opening of Lumo’s new operational base in Preston. The site is expected to create around 100 jobs as preparations continue for the introduction of direct services linking Scotland and London.

The launch event was marked with a procession organised in collaboration with the Preston Caribbean Carnival, bringing performers from Preston railway station to the new headquarters on Fox Street. The celebration offered a preview of the carnival’s return later in the year.

Lumo’s new route is positioned as a low-cost alternative on the busy corridor between London Euston railway station and Stirling, with fares starting from £29.90. Services will also call at Milton Keynes, Nuneaton, Crewe, Preston, Carlisle, Lockerbie, Motherwell, Whifflet, Greenfaulds and Larbert.

The event was officially opened by Sir Mark Hendrick, with entertainment provided by Scottish group Just The Brave.

Stuart Jones, Managing Director of First Rail Open Access, said:

“This is a significant moment for both Lumo colleagues and the people of Preston as we countdown to officially launching our new West Coast service. We’re excited to be investing in our new base in Preston which is creating jobs and supporting the local economy. We’re looking forward to becoming a part of the community here, already forging some brilliant partnerships, with the Preston Caribbean Carnival team helping us to open our HQ here in real style. We can’t wait to begin this new service in the coming months, offering simple, low-cost tickets and direct services between Scotland, the North West of England and London.”

Steve Harvey, Services Director UK and Ireland at Alstom, said:

“We’re delighted to give passengers a sneak peek of our refurbished Class 222 trains. This project is a fantastic example of industry collaboration, and our teams have worked proudly alongside Lumo and Beacon Rail to deliver a refreshed, high quality fleet that enhances comfort and reliability for travellers. As Lumo prepares to launch its new West Coast service, we’re thrilled that Alstom’s expertise is helping bring these trains back into service in a vibrant new livery, supporting both regional jobs and the wider rail network.”

Adam Cunliffe, Beacon Chief Executive Officer, said:

“Congratulations to Lumo on the opening of their new offices in Preston. Beacon is delighted to be working in partnership with Lumo and Alstom to upgrade the C222s and we look forward to seeing the newly refurbished trains commence passenger services.”

Image: Lumo