TRANSPORT Minister Paul Maynard will be in Blackburn today to officially open Northern’s new King Street Train Depot.

The £23million maintenance hub is part of a major investment in the town which will also see the rail operator move 70 train crew into the One Cathedral Square office block.

Mr Maynard, the junior government minister responsible for rail matters, will be joined at the unveiling of the new depot by Northern’s regional director Liam Sumpter.

The depot, which was constructed by Network Rail, is a key part of the Great North Rail Project and will help maintain up to 30 Northern diesel trains.

Mr Sumpter said “The electrification of the Preston to Blackpool line will have a significant impact on rail travel across Lancashire.

“The new depot will be a vital part of this work, freeing space for electric trains at other depots across the region.

“Not only will it provide a maintenance base for our diesel trains, it will also provide jobs for more than 100 people in the region.

“The depot is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through partnership work and I’m delighted to be able to welcome Mr Maynard to the official opening.”

Northern will oversee the complete removal of Pacer trains by the end of 2019, and will invest £500 million in 281 brand new air-conditioned carriages.