Bombardier, which has a manufacturing operation in Derby, has won a £1 billion contract that will secure up to 1,000 jobs for the next 10 years. The order is related to a franchise deal in East Anglia, awarded to the Dutch group Abellio by the Government.

The deal will lead to the introduction of more than 1,000 new carriages, — 660 of which will be made in Derby — to cut journey times between Norwich, Ipswich and London.

Des McKeon, UK commercial director at Bombardier Transportation, said: “We are delighted to be chosen — pending final contract signing — as the preferred supplier for new trains for the East Anglia franchise. We look forward to helping Abellio transform rail services throughout the region and deliver an enhanced customer experience through the provision of new trains.”

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “We are making the biggest investment in the railways since the Victorian era. By awarding this franchise to Abellio East Anglia, we will improve journeys for people in East Anglia, and Abellio’s decision will ensure that the train-building industry in Derby remains strong.”