ScotRail wants ‘153s’ to create dedicated cycle carriages
ScotRail hopes to add a unit to certain services on scenic routes from next summer, to create dedicated carriages for carrying bicycles and outdoor sporting equipment.
Under the plans, five Class 153 single-car diesel multiple units (DMUs) will be leased to turn twocar trains into three-car services, although it is unclear which leasing company will provide the DMUs and where they will be cascaded from. Angel Trains declined to comment, and it is understood the vehicles are not owned by Porterbrook.
“We’re looking forward to working with our key partners on how we can boost tourism and bring wider economic benefits along Scotland’s most scenic railways,” a ScotRail spokesman told RAIL.
Routes are yet to be confirmed and SR said nothing has been signed yet. Ultimately it will be Transport Scotland’s decision.
In September 2017, the Scottish Government announced a commitment to introduce dedicated carriages for bicycles and outdoor sporting equipment to “maximise the opportunity for greater access to the rural areas of Scotland along the Far North Line and West Highland Line to enable both local communities and visitors to engage in outdoor recreations”.
As part of the project, the Scottish Government said it will consult with cycling groups to “discuss the internal layout of these carriages to maximise the experience and efficiency from a cyclist’s perspective.”
A statement from the Government continued: “This will very much be a trial and will help to inform the future rolling stock requirements so that the Scottish rail fleet can support the growing cycle tourism sector over the next 30 or 40 years.
“This is a unique initiative and the first of its kind in the UK, supporting this Government’s commitment to improving transport connectivity, to getting more people to make active travel choices and providing opportunities to do so, supporting local economies, tourism, the nation’s health and the environment.”
RAIL understands there is also a desire for the ‘153s’ to carry parcels and cargo, although it has been confirmed the units will not be using the Adaptable Carriage system.
Intermodality MD Nick Gallop told RAIL: “This is another positive sign of the more forward-thinking TOCs starting to grapple with the challenge of baggage and bikes, which then creates off-peak opportunities for using the same space to carry freight.
“We’re looking forward to working with ScotRail and other like-minded TOCs, with support from RSSB and Innovate UK, to maximise the commercial opportunities for urban logistics.
“Cities, retailers and couriers are struggling with deliveries and air quality concerns, so it’s an open door for the rail industry to pick up where it left off 25 years ago.”