While I was disappointed at release that tsw3’s ECML Peterborough to Doncaster only included 1 IET variant, and had route coverage only to Doncaster. I’ve since grown to appreciate and enjoy the route. That being said, I believe that after the success of JT’s WCMLOS, the route might now be worth a revisit. Firstly and most importantly, I believe the route needs an extension past Doncaster to Leeds. Above is ATS’s map of their Leeds line from TSC, this line would add an approximate 25 miles (41km) which would bring the total route length to just over 100 miles. Express services from Leeds and Harrowgate make intermediate stops at Wakefield Westgate, whilst northern services from Doncaster to Leeds, run the full length of this line, I believe the northern 323 should layer in here, as well as another EMU from a future dlc I will mention soon. It’s important to not that while I don’t think Wakefield Kirkhate, Moorthorpe and Crofton tmd will be necessary additions due to the lack of northern, tpe and cross country stock. I believe Neville Hill TMD may provide some gameplay enhancements which I will explore later. Secondly, given the extension to Leeds, it’s only necessary to the include with the update, the long awaited LNER Class 91, mk4 coaches and mk4 dvt in both LNER rebranded virgin livery, and LNER red, oxblood, grey and white Livery with accurate nameplates. The class 91 was introduced as a successor to the class 43 on the ECML Today class 91 and DVT’s only run as far as Leeds and are maintained at the Neville Hill TMD. Along with services to and from Leeds, and depot moves to and from Neville Hill, here are a few scenario suggestions for the loco and route which may enhance gameplay: “Blunt Statement” In this scenario the player will the operate the class 91 southbound driving ‘blunt end first’ after a malfunction in the dvt. “Intercity 225” In this scenario, the player will operate the class 91 southbound from Newark Northgate for a signalling test on the ECML. Between Grantham and Peterborough the train will be permitted to run up to 140mph (225 kph). “Leed the way” In this scenario, the player will operate the DVT on an early morning service to Leeds, beginning at Grantham the player will have to navigate yellow signals as they approach a northbound freight service. The freight service will stop at Ranskill (just north of Retford) to let the service pass and continue fast to Leeds. Let me know your thoughts on these scenario suggestions. Thirdly, I mentioned earlier that there was an EMU dlc I would suggest. I actually have 2 dlc’s to suggest. The first actually being a dlc for ATS’s upcoming Manchester route which would layer in. And the other being a pack similar to engineering express, with 2 locos that can add more variety to the route. 1: Northern Class 331 dlc This EMU currently operates the northern stopping service between Doncaster and Leeds, as well as services around Manchester airport. I believe ATS should make this loco dlc for their route, as they currently don’t offer any new stock, and it could layer in on the ECML extension. A new northern loco has been in high demand since ATS announced their route and this dlc would be the perfect chance to make use of it in multiple routes. Similarly to how the Scot-rail 158 can/will be used on both Edinburgh Glasgow and fife circle. (On that note, it’s interesting that the SCR 158 will be layering into Manchester commuter, perhaps it will be receiving a northern livery. In that case it could layer into ECML also as ai traffic) 2: Hitachi Pack In this DLC I propose the introduction of an additional 2 hitachi AT300s to the ECML. The LNER class 800, and Hull Trains class 802, both are Electro-Diesel Multiple Units, giving a new experience rather than the 801 we’ve been used to since tsw 3. The Hull Trains timetable has services runs fast through Peterborough and Newark Northgate. But stop at Retford, Grantham and Doncaster on their way to hull. While the LNER 800 stops at all principal stations along this section of the ECML just as the 801 and could also layer into Edinburgh-Glasgow and Fife Circle as services to Aberdeen and Inverness. Scenarios could include running in diesel mode due OHLE losing power in a storm, etc. ultimately these add-ons serve to liven the experience of the mainline with more variety than just the 801s. In terms of creators club. The 800 could be put in GWR colours and run in free roam on GWR and WCL. And the 802 could be put in TPE colours on ATS’s Manchester commuter. Overall, this is my suggestion for an ECML enhancement that will bring new life to the route. Let me know your thoughts.
Any extension to the current ECML would ideally be better off focused on the main line rather than its branches.
I like this suggestion - but again am more keen on main line. If it could be Doncaster to York and Leeds with a 91 perhaps as an extension? Though maybe too long idk. OP, EMU DLC - my vote is for the 80x pack
The section from Doncaster to York would be another 30 odd miles. It’s a stretch to bring total route length to above 120 miles. Perhaps it could be possible once 8th gen consoles inevitably get the boot.
It's a good idea, though this may end up being sold as a 'Route DLC' rather than an extension. Not only you can route hop from ECML, it'll also justify development from DTG on new rolling stock as you proposed. I really personally hope the Class 91 comes in the near future, ECML already feels very bland and dry.
