Their days of operation may be numbered by the original Tyne and Wear Metrocars are set to enjoy some TLC with a major programme of deep cleaning and interior repair works to be initiated by Stadler. The idea is that it will improve the customer experience during the transition to the new trains.
Stadler, who now have the contract to maintain not only the new trains as they come over from Switzerland but also the existing fleet, have commissioned the works on behalf of Nexus with Diamond Rail Services having been commissioned to complete the work.
The work will see all of the carriage floors being cleaned, resealed and then polished. Damaged and threadbare seats will be replaced, grab poles polished and interior panels and windowsills repainted.
Cathy Massarella, Major Projects Director at Nexus, said: “Both Nexus and Stadler are committed to maintaining and improving the current Metro fleet during the transition to the modern new fleet of trains. This deep clean will also include a focus on a series of interior repairs to enhance the comfort and appearance of these 43 year-old carriages. This will help to improve the customer experience in the old trains as we get ready to gradually start removing them from service through to 2025, making way for the new Stadler trains, which are going to be transformative for both our customers and our colleagues.”
The Metrocars are due to be replaced by a fleet of state of the art new trains being built by Stadler in Switzerland. Three have now been delivered with more due to start arriving later this year. Testing will take place before the first enter service.