MTMS secures depot maintenance deal with Hitachi

Derbyshire-based maintenance company MTMS has won a threeyear contract with Hitachi Rail to look after its Train Maintenance Centres (TMCs) and Class 80x IEP trains, on the Great Western and East Coast main lines

The contract covers six Hitachi principal depots that run its 162-strong fleet of Class 80x series trains, with an optional two-year extension.

The Class 800s comprise several fleets, with 65 trains operating on the ECML (LNER and Lumo) and 93 on the GWML.

MTMS provides equipment and supports the maintenance of depot infrastructure, including carriage washing facilities, servicing spines, and fuel arms. As part of the initial deal, it also provides 24/7 call-out support for service-critical equipment.

The Swadlincote firm has already carried out depot improvements (winterisation of servicing equipment and installing walkways) at several Hitachi Rail TMCs.

“After three years of building our partnership with Hitachi Rail Europe, the contract is a big vote of confidence in our people and in the MTMS way of doing things,” said MTMS Chairman Malcolm Prentice.

Hitachi Rail Head of Facilities Sean Denington added: “MTMS is part of the great tradition of rail businesses based in the East Midlands. We’re delighted to be working with the company to help us in delivering excellence through our train fleet to operators, passengers and the communities on the routes we serve.”

MTMS services and maintains rolling stock, depot specialist equipment and routine infrastructure tasks at more than a third of UK depots. Its clients include First MTR South Western Railway, Govia Thameslink Railway, Arriva and Siemens.

The company employs

32 people and last year was awarded the Silver Defence Employer Recognition Scheme for its ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant.