BCLP advises Angel Trains Limited on multi-million pound Rolling Stock Investment

International law firm BCLP is proud to announce its lead advisory role in a multi-million pound rolling stock investment project that will not only support UK manufacturing and contribute to economic growth in the North East of England, but also marks a milestone in the rail sector’s green energy transition. 

BCLP has advised Angel Trains - one of the largest owners and asset managers of passenger rolling stock in the UK, and a longstanding client of the firm - in its procurement of 9 new 5-car Hitachi Class AT300 trainsets for lease to open access operator, Grand Central, part of the Arriva group.  

The new trains will be assembled at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe facility, helping to support the retention of critical skills and jobs in the local area, and will be cutting-edge “tri-mode” trains, meaning they will be powered using electricity, diesel or battery.  The inclusion of advanced battery traction builds on the momentum created by the successful conclusion of Angel Trains’ and Hitachi Rail’s battery trial in 2024 (on which BCLP also advised) and represents a significant step forward in the de-carbonisation of the rail industry.

Russell Clifford, Partner and Head of Transport and Asset Finance, commented, "We are delighted to have supported our long-standing client Angel Trains on this landmark deal, which not only enhances UK rail infrastructure but also provides a significant boost to local manufacturing in the Northeast. The integration of innovative battery technology into these trains is a powerful example of how the transport sector can play a key role in driving forward the green energy agenda in the UK.”

The BCLP team advising Angel Trains on the project was led by Russell Clifford, Partner and Head of Transport and Asset Finance group. Supported by Partner Jamie Wiseman-Clarke, Senior Associate Deborah Boddy, and Trainee Rachel Naylor.