Our ‘Dad’s Army’ railways, still waiting on trains from the 70s
A TRADE union has accused SNP ministers and ScotRail of running a ‘Dad’s Army’ railway as plans to introduce a fleet of upgraded 1970s trains were hit by more delays.
A fleet of 26 former First Great Western trains was supposed to be introduced on Scotland’s railways in May to help ease pressure on the network.
But ScotRail confirmed yesterday that problems with the contractors refurbishing the trains meant they would be available ‘later than planned’. The first of the refurbished trains is due to go into service within weeks – but it remains unknown when the remaining 25 will be ready.
The latest delays have been branded ‘unacceptable’ by the Scottish Government. But the TSSA transport trade union said that both ScotRail and SNP ministers must take their share of the blame.
The InterCity 125 trains – leased from Angel Trains and refurbished by Wabtec –will be used mainly for services between the Central Belt and Aberdeen and Inverness.
TSSA general secretary Manuel Cortes said: ‘Scotland’s railways deserve better than the “make do and mend” culture we now see. These trains were due in May but don’t look likely to start running until at least September.
‘InterCity 125 trains were a tremendous feat of engineering back in the 1970s. They served our railways extremely well. They also showed what can be built within our shores when there is adequate investment from the drawing board to the production line.
‘Sadly, the units that have now made their way to ScotRail are the “Dad’s Army” of the fleet. These trains should be heading to the junk yard rather than be used to link the Central Belt with the North and the Highlands.
‘The lack of ambition by Scotland’s SNP Government is galling. They should have insisted on new trains for these routes so Scottish passengers can enjoy the 21st century travel experience they deserve, rather than a ride on museum pieces.’
A Transport Scotland spokesman said: ‘The delay in introducing any trains is deeply disappointing and the Scottish Government has reiterated to senior management the importance of these fleets to Scotland’s railway. The issues raised about the lifespan of these trains are misleading and completely ignore the fact this is far more than an interior refresh – the power cars are being upgraded, too.
‘Good, high quality refurbishment can deliver a passenger experience comparable with new rolling stock while providing good value for the public purse.’
‘This £54million programme to deliver 26 fully refurbished highspeed trains will enable a 40 per cent increase in capacity.’
A ScotRail spokesman said: ‘These iconic trains will be available for customers later than planned because of challenges with the delivery schedule faced by our suppliers Angel Trains and Wabtec. We are working flat out to get the first upgraded train into service as soon as possible.’
‘Should be heading to the junk yard’