These two seem to be the most wanted routes in the UK. To keep it simple, I’m going to compare them for InterCity/high speed services and in the modern era. I may do other threads for freight/commuter and other eras. East Coast Mainline (ECML) Route: Traction: Class 91 Class 800: Class 91 cab Traction from different eras on the ECML seen together for this special event. HST could easily be added without much extra effort as it’s already been modelled on GWE. Last HST service for LNER was Dec 2019. The case The ECML is an extremely iconic route with some fantastic traction.
WCML Route Traction Class 390 and 221 alongside each other Class 390 cab Class 221 cab The case Probably not as iconic as the ECML (it’s subjective) but would offer something very different. The only tilting trains in the UK. Class 390s can tilt up to 8 degrees while Class 221s can tilt up to 6 degrees. Class 390 tilting
For me the Ecml is better because my favorite train in in the united kingdom is the class 91 with the MK4 cars and this class 800 I think an HST would be incredible and a class 365 and Class66
I think the Ecml better because the are more prestigious that is the cabin where the main trains the Eclm would be a better addition than the WCML.
Out of all of the options it would have to be the Class 390 on WCML, and preferably Crewe to Liverpool section included. I’m tilting towards my home line you see.
To be honest, as much as I like the 390 and the WCML, I had to go with the ECML. Just because it is the closest fast line to me (I live just south of Lincoln) and the Class 91 is just awesome! It was the first high speed train I ever went on. And not so long ago (I say that, around 2-3 years ago) myself and my family were heading down to London and the 'Bounds Green' Intercity Swallow liveried 91 pulled in and must have gotten very excited! Oh and don't forget about the 'Happy Train' Class 365!
Class 800/801 because they're capable of Running 140 mph and replace the Class 91 IC 225 sets which date back to 1988-1991 when the ECML electrification project was completed. Class 800 is a dual mode train which should enable you to run ECML services that aren't electrified like Forth Rail Bridge or Sunderland bound from Kings Cross.
I think somewhere like Crewe would be a good locations to have DLCs. The issue with London Euston/Kings Cross is to make the route meaningful, you would need to have the route to at least Birmingham (112 miles), for example which they won’t do. Even though, Euston - Milton Keynes (50 miles) is longer than say, Crewe - Liverpool (38 miles), the latter does seem more meaningful and satisfying because you’re starting and finishing at two big stations. Milton Keynes (or Peterborough on the East Coast) would seem a frustrating place to finish a journey for InterCity services. Crewe would be a fantastic place to build around with lots of variety. For example: Base DLC: Crewe to Liverpool (38 miles) with Class 390s and Class 350s Extension 1: Crewe to Manchester (30 miles). Add Class 323s Extension 2: Crewe to Chester (21 miles). Add Class 221s Extension 3: Crewe to Shrewsbury (32 miles). Add Class 175s and/or Class 15x sprinters Extension 4: Crewe to Preston (51 miles). Add maybe the Sleeper train (Class 92) or Class 325 postal train Good opportunities for freight too. Of course, you don’t have to buy all or any extensions if you don’t want to.
I would prefer the WCML as I think it is more interesting scenically, certainly the further north you go, I know the Newcastle to Edinburgh section of ECML has some lovely parts. However of those choices of traction the class 91 appeals to me the most. A WCML set in the early 90's with class 86, 87 and 90 would be fantastic.
I would prefer WCML. As it has the 390, 221, 350. And if it was an extension to the Bakerloo line we could get the 378 for the Watford DC line which runs along side the WCML most of the time I think first it would go to Milton Keynes. Then extended to Birmingham New Street. And maybe further on This all does come down to whether Avanti West Coast and London Northwestern are willing to give a licence
Totally agree with what you say above... however, ECML in the 70s with Deltics!!!! All 22 with names, FP ones with white window surrounds!
Yes that would be an excellent add-on. Maybe the Deltic would give DTG a reason to make a 70's route.
390/221 for me on WCML. Purley because it's a route I've travelled many times myself. Also, a modern DMU would make a nice change from so many EMUs that we have already.