BBD.B close to possible London train deal
By Robin Johnson
DERBY train-maker Bombardier is on the verge of landing a multi-million-pound deal to provide more rolling stock for London.
Transport for London has approved plans to increase capacity on London Overground services because of a surge in passenger demand.
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Bombardier
It is likely that the work, estimated to be worth around £120 million, will go to the Litchurch Lane firm, as TfL has previously held discussions with Bombardier about supplying the extra trains.
The company built the Class 378 trains that currently operate on the Overground network.
The deal would involved building 57 extra carriages, due to enter service on the East London Line from December 2014.
A Bombardier spokesman confirmed that talks would now take place with a view to reaching commercial close.
He said: "It's a positive development for Bombardier and we look forward to supporting TfL as they work to increase capacity on the London Overground network."
The news coincided with a visit by Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin yesterday to the Derby and Derbyshire Rail Forum's annual conference.