All change on board the Metro
Reporter A MULTI-MILLION-POUND investment is set to transform Metro journeys for thousands of passengers across Tyne and Wear.
Metro users have been told they can now look forward to Wi-Fi, electronic information screens and more luggage space as proposals for a new fleet of trains are unveiled.
Plans for the replacement carriages – set to be launched after 2021 – will go before councillors on the North East Combined Authority (NECA) next week.
The proposals come after thousands of passengers responded to a consultation earlier this year, organised by Nexus as it completes the business case for the £540m investment.
A report to councillors shows that some passengers’ feedback will be incorporated into the design for the new trains, including:
More space for luggage, pushchairs and wheelchairs; Improved CCTV; Electronic information screens; Wi-Fi and charging points.
The report also proposes that the new Metrocars should have London Underground-style seating along the inside wall of the carriages.
It says: “This will increase the amount of standing room and space for luggage, buggies and wheelchairs.
“In the current configuration passengers often place bags on the seat next to them, and single passengers often sit on the ‘outside’ seat, meaning that the ‘inside’ seat (by the window) goes unoccupied. Linear seating will also act as a physical deterrent to passengers putting their feet on seats.” The design will also include a requirement for some ‘fold-away’ seating to provide either additional seating capacity or luggage space.
And leatherette fabric has been recommended to replace the current deep-cushioned seat, with the report describing it as “hard wearing, easier to clean and more hygienic”.
Nexus also says it is likely the new trains will come with air conditioning.
In July 2016, Nexus and the North East Combined Authority agreed an ambitious plan to create a joined-up Metro and rail network, which could see expansion to Newcastle’s West End, Northumberland and County Durham. But to push ahead Nexus needs to replace the dated trains which are used by 40 million passengers per year.
The new fleet will comprise either replacements for the current 84 Metrocars, or 42 trains with a similar capacity, as the system currently operates with two Metrocars coupled together.
The report says: “There are ‘redundant’ cab-ends in the middle of each train. These reduce space that could be used for extra seating, standing or luggage.”