Northern's New Electrics

331 002 & 018 passing Cottam Hall playing fields in Poulton-le-Fylde on 3rd January

Northern's brand new Class 331 Civity electric EMUs are now settling down into regular service on the Blackpool North to Manchester Airport and Hazel Grove routes. The new trains are built by Spanish manufacturer CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles) in 3 and 4 car sets, with the Blackpool line appearing to mainly use the three car sets (Class 331/0). The new trains are very impressive, with a well laid out interior and a good turn of acceleration, they are also very quiet inside from a passenger viewpoint.

The old order, 319 386 near Blackpool North in July 2018

Manchester bound 331 016 at Poulton-le-Fylde with no destination displayed

331 014 stopping at Poulton-le-Fylde on a service to Blackpool North

The interior of 331 007 showing door the free access between carriages

The interior of 331 007 showing plentiful tables and information screens

Six car set 331 007 & 005 at Piccadilly on a train from Blackpool North on 16th January

331 007 & 005 departing Piccadilly on a Blackpool to Manchester Airport train

331 010 at Piccadilly on the Blackpool North to Hazel Grove service

331 006 crossing Castlefield Viaduct in Manchester on a train to Hazel Grove