Translink NI Railways launched the first refurbished Enterprise train into passenger service today (16 November 2015) as part of a £12.2 million Enterprise train upgrade programme.
The refurbishment programme has been financed through the European Union’s INTERREG IVA Programme, which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) with support from the Department for Regional Development and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTAS) in Ireland.
Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive, says the service looks and feels like a modern new train with the emphasis on comfort, service and value:
“Customers will first notice the train’s striking modern new look with a stylish purple, red and grey livery. Stepping on board, the transformation is incredible with vibrant, eye-catching new colour schemes and new Enterprise and Enterprise Plus branding on board.
“The carriages boast attractive seating with power sockets, plush carpets, new tables and lighting as well as finer details like new signage and internal fixtures and fittings – we’re confident our customers will be very pleased with the stylish interiors and improved passenger features. Once all trains are completed we will also have our new electronic seat reservation displays operating.
“Another exciting development is the new Enterprise Menu offering customers an appetising selection of fresh food and drink. Enterprise Class passengers will be able to choose from either a trolley service or visit the new dining car that now includes ‘sit-in’ table service. There’s also a waiter service for Enterprise Plus customers to enjoy delicious meals from the comfort of their seat – a truly unique dining experience!
“We also remain focussed on good value tickets and customers can take advantage of web-fares from as little as £10 day return. We are encouraging business customers to pre-purchase new carnet tickets for savings of up 38% compared to the cost of regular single tickets.
“Travelling by Enterprise is not just about reaching your destination, it’s about the unique journey experience. We want to offer our customers a relaxing way to escape to Dublin, avoiding the hassle of traffic congestion and car parking.
“Whether travelling for business or leisure, Enterprise is the smart move for hassle free journeys letting you catch-up on work, browse the internet taking advantage of free Wi-Fi and power sockets now installed at every seat.
“The service has an important role to play in maintaining strong links between the two capital cities supporting trade and tourism while also providing convenient access to Lisburn, Portadown and Newry.
“We would like to thank the European Union, Department for Regional Development and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in Ireland for essential funding to deliver this project. We would also like to thank our customers and hope they enjoy this impressive all new Enterprise service,” said Chris.
Welcoming completion of the refurbishment of the first Enterprise train, Gina McIntyre, Chief Executive (Designate) of the SEUPB, said:
“The project has made a significant improvement to one of our main infrastructure links and will support economic and social development, on a cross-border basis. This is one of the core objectives of the EU’s INTERREG IVA Programme, which was designed to improve the competitiveness of the region and improve the lives of its citizens.
“I look forward to hearing more about how the newly enhanced rail service will positively impact on trade and tourism on both sides of the border,” Gina continued.
Refurbishment of all remaining Enterprise trains is scheduled for completion by the end of 2015.
For further information click www.translink.co.uk/enterpriseupgrade/ or for Enterprise passenger information call 028 90 66 66 30 or download the ‘Translink Journey Planner’ App.