ScotRail's Class 222 to be refurbished
posted on 2nd Apr 2026 21:37
On 19 March 2026, Alstom has signed a long-term Technical Support and Spares Supply Agreement (TSSSA) with ScotRail Trains Limited, covering the operation, maintenance support and refresh of its Class 222 fleet.
The 10-year agreement, valued at approximately 250 million GBP, runs to March 2036 with an option to extend up to March 2042, and will see Alstom provide technical support and spares supply for 22 five-car Class 222 trains, alongside a significant programme of refurbishment and modernisation works designed to improve reliability, passenger comfort and onboard technology.
As part of the wider refurbishment programme, Alstom will deliver an extensive interior and exterior refresh, including new seating, tables, carpets, LED lighting and upgraded driver cabs, as well as toilet refurbishments and reconfiguration work to improve luggage, bicycle and accessibility provision. This refurbishment contract is with Beacon and is worth around 80 million GBP.
The programme also includes extensive onboard systems upgrades (including intelligent stop/start), with new passenger information systems and saloon media screens, hearing aid announcement systems, automatic passenger counting, CCTV, WiFi connectivity and enhanced cybersecurity measures. Defibrillators will be fitted to every train as part of the safety upgrade package.
Initial maintenance and support activities will be delivered across multiple locations, including Polmadie, Haymarket and Inverness, with Alstom providing technicians, engineers, supply chain support, spares management, specialist tooling and data hosting services. The scope also includes driver and maintenance “train the trainer” programmes to support fleet introduction.
The agreement forms part of a broader package of contracts with rolling stock owner Beacon Rail, including early heavy maintenance, refurbishment activity and storage of the Class 222 fleet, further strengthening Alstom’s long-term commitment to supporting the trains through their transition into Scottish service.
The programme is closely aligned with Alstom UK & Ireland’s Sustainability Strategy and ScotRail’s sustainability and delivery plans, with a shared focus on reducing inequalities, taking climate action, promoting inclusive economic growth and improving health and wellbeing. Sustainability performance will be monitored against agreed targets and reviewed regularly by Alstom’s senior leadership team, with independent verification against recognised international standards.
