The first Class 700 Desiro City train for Thameslink has arrived in the UK for testing.

The first train arrived at the new Three Bridges maintenance depot in the early hours of July 31, having been hauled from Germany through the Channel Tunnel.

Testing will now begin, ready for the start of passenger service in spring 2016.

The new trains, combined with the redevelopment of London Bridge and an upgraded signalling system, will allow operator GTR to run 24 trains an hour on the Thameslink route through central London.

Rail Minister Claire Perry said: “The arrival of this first train is a huge step forward for the Government-sponsored Thameslink Programme, which is creating thousands of jobs across the country and is a vital part of our long-term economic plan.”

Iain Smith, programme director of the Thameslink Rolling Stock Project at Siemens, said: “The arrival of the first train into Three Bridges is a real milestone for Thameslink and is a hugely exciting moment for us at Siemens.

“It signifies major progress towards the transformation of the Thameslink services, a step change in the passenger experience and a real sense of the future.

“We will now be focussed on testing and commissioning the train, while GTR trains drivers and maintenance staff to ensure that everything is ready for the start of service next year.”

Source: GlobalRailNews