Contract extension for Metro engineers
AN ENGINEERING firm has extended its maintenance contract on the Tyne and Wear Metro as the system moves to a new fleet.
North East company Houghton International will work with Stadler, which is building a new fleet of Metro trains, on an accelerated maintenance plan to ensure the current fleet runs until the arrival of new vehicles in 2023.
Stadler last year assumed responsibility from Nexus for the servicing and maintenance of the Metro fleet, as part of the deal for the new trains.
Its agreement with Houghton International covers both planned maintenance and emergency repairs, and encompasses the likes of traction motors, motor alternator sets and compressor motors.
Chris Robson, sales director at Houghton International, said: “Having worked closely with Nexus and Tyne and Wear Metro for almost 15 years it is great to start a new journey with Stadler and continue to support the existing vehicles until their end of life.
“It is satisfying to know that Stadler will continue to trust Houghton International to support the ongoing maintenance of traction motors, as well as other components, as they condense the maintenance programme to coincide with the depot demolition and new depot build.
“Our expertise in traction motors and other light rail assets means Houghton International is well placed to continue to provide support.
“We aim to build a strong working relationship with Stadler, both on the existing fleet of vehicles and then supporting the new fleet when it starts to arrive in 2023.”
Marc Robson, fleet manager at Stadler, said: “Houghton International is already working with us to support our traction motor maintenance programme, so when we required further rotating machinery support for our accelerated maintenance plan, they were the natural choice.
“Their commitment and willingness to serve Stadler and the community as a whole has always stood out, and communication at all levels has been consistently excellent.
“Houghton International has proved quick to mobilise and provides high quality overhauls with a speedy turnaround.
“The fact that they are based locally means that together, we are able to work nimbly to resolve any issues that may arise.
“We look forward to our continued close working, as we move from the old fleet to the new one.”