Southeastern News - Class 508

508s go to Brighton

Two of Southeastern's former class 508 units went on a return test trip to Brighton from Stewarts Lane on 12th August 2009. Due to shortage of stock, Southern will be using these units in the future.

(left) 508210 and 508211 are pictured through Earlswood with 5Z80.

Regular Moves between Gillingham and Stewarts Lane

Six perfectly good serviceable units remain on lease for several years yet, therefore they are being paid for and need to be maintained in running condition, yet they are not available for service.

Here, on one of the regular movements of class 508s between Gillingham Depot, for maintenance, and Stewarts Lane, for "warm" storage, 508203, 508205 and 508210 pass Bickley with the 16+18 Gillingham - Stewarts Lane on 29th April 2009.

508s Move Into Store at Stewarts Lane

The withdrawn Class 508 fleet is to be stored at Stewarts Lane, with two units moved from Gillingham on the 18th March and a further two due on the 19th, scheduled to run: Gillingham Depot 09+36, Victoria 10+54-10+59, Stewarts Lane 11+10. The first two units moved were 203 and 207, arriving and departing Victoria almost ten minutes early, which nearly caught out the photographer who had been significantly delayed getting to Victoria! Above, on 18th March, 508203 is seen leading 508207 out of Victoria towards Stewarts Lane. Both units externally looked very smart. It is anticipated that the final two units will be moved on 25th March and once all six serviceable units are based at Stewarts Lane, on rotation one will be sent back to Gillingham for maintenance.