The UK’s first electrified testing loop has been officially opened at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire

The testing loop is part of the redevelopment of the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre by rolling stock financier and asset management company Porterbrook, which has invested more than £75m to create a 135-acre world-leading facility.

Rail Minister Lord Hendy, who officially launched the 3.5km test track, said: “The Rail Innovation Centre at Long Marston is a brilliant initiative which will support the next generation of trains in Britain.

“It was an honour to launch the centre’s new testing loop today and as a passenger, I look forward to travelling on the trains that have benefitted from being tested at the site.  

“This kind of innovation is exactly what we want to see as we move towards Great British Railways so we can build a railway fit for the future which the public can rely on and be proud of.”

Porterbrook CEO, Mary Grant, added: “Long Marston is for the benefit of the whole industry. A site tailor-made for innovation that demonstrates how private capital can work hand-in-hand with Great British Railways to deliver an exceptional service to the travelling public. 

“We’re making clear, long-term commitments to UK rail, not just as a financier, but as a genuine partner adding value now and for the future.”

Porterbrook has deployed more than £1bn of capital during the last five years in new trains, fleet upgrades, traction innovation and rail infrastructure. Over £14m has been invested to build and test the country’s first hydrogen-powered passenger train, HydroFLEX, and the company also bought into the vital supply chain with a 49% stake in Brodie Engineering in Scotland.