Introduction

In October 2007 Hitachi Rail Europe Ltd unveiled its brand new rolling stock depot created for the maintenance of the new Hitachi Channel Tunnel Rail Link Domestic Services fleet. The Ashford Train Depot maintenance facility and six-car Class 395 ‘bullet train’ unit for Southeastern High Speed Services have been modelled on the Shinkansen maintenance facilities in Japan.

This visit provides a unique insight into the features of this world-class facility, which includes a five track maintenance shed, incorporating a double road bogie and equipment drop pit, and a heavy inspection road. Ashford also includes carriage washing plants, a bio-hazard pit for the safe removal of waste, a 25kV test track and a tandem wheel lathe. Additionally, the depot includes stabling facilities for rolling stock operating on Southeastern mainline services.

The event also provides an opportunity to see the only Shinkansen-style train depot in Europe.

Basic PPE will be required to observe the train in the depot, namely HV vest and boots.

Who should attend?

The visit will be a great opportunity for rolling stock designers and engineers, maintainers, operators, regulators and consultants, to visit and learn more about the depot