Alstom, in partnership with Southeastern and Eversholt Rail, has returned the first fully refurbished Class 376 Electrostar train to service, marking the start of a major modernisation programme across South East London and North Kent’s Metro routes. The upgraded electric multiple units (EMUs) are designed to offer passengers a more comfortable and connected travel experience, featuring new interiors, enhanced accessibility, and updated exteriors.

The refurbishment programme will eventually cover all 36 trains in the Class 376 fleet, delivering 11,000 refurbished seats, over 4,000 power sockets, and the installation of approximately 29,000 panels, grab poles, trims, and protective cappings. Each train will also receive a new blue livery, giving the fleet a fresh and modern appearance.

Work is being carried out at Alstom’s Grove Park Centre of Excellence in South East London, with Alstom providing all engineering, materials, and at-seat power installation. Following the introduction of train No. 376027, the rest of the fleet will enter service regularly over the next two years.

Accessibility improvements are a key feature of the programme, including brighter orange grab poles and handles, clearly marked priority seats, new anti-slip strips for safer boarding, and large contrasting panels on exterior door buttons for better visibility.

Steve Harvey, Alstom Services Director UK and Ireland, said:

“The first Class 376 refurbishment marks a major achievement in working with Southeastern and Eversholt Rail in delivering a more modern fleet for passengers across South East London and Kent. At-seat power, amongst the other interior improvements, should make a real difference to the customers and it’s great to see the first upgraded unit back in service."

Dan Paris, Fleet Maintenance Director at Southeastern, added:

“It’s great to be celebrating this milestone and we will be welcoming refreshed trains regularly throughout 2026 and into 2027. It’s just one part of our plan to deliver better journeys and it sits alongside our wider programme to improve our fleet, which includes the procurement of a newer, more accessible replacement Metro fleet that will be better for customers and taxpayers.”

Paul Sutherland, Client Services Director at Eversholt Rail, said:

“It is fantastic to see the first of our Class 376 trains in service following the second phase of the refurbishment programme. We are committed to upgrading our fleets to provide a much-improved passenger experience and encourage more people to travel by rail. We look forward to continuing to work with Southeastern and Alstom to support the ongoing work for the remainder of the fleet.”

Image: Alstom