With the arrivals of the new Tyne and Wear Metro trains being built by Stadler continuing, a group of specialist users have been given the chance to get familiar with the trains. Sense Ability Matters (SAM) – a charity which supports people with sights and hearing loss across Gateshead and North Tyneside – too part in a familiarisation session at the Nexus Learning Centre in South Shields.
The users sampled the range of accessibility features in action on the new train, including automated sliding steps and new audio and visual technology which should make the Metro easier to access for people with visual and hearing impairments.
Michael Richardson, Head of Fleet and Depot Replacement at Nexus, said: “The new Metro trains have been specifically designed using customer feedback and with accessibility in mind.
“The accessibility features are wide ranging, from special lights and audio-visual technology, to more space for wheelchairs in the carriages. The automatic sliding step eliminates the challenge of there being a gap between the train and the platform edge, which is a huge benefit for the 50,000 wheelchair journeys which are made on Metro every year.”
23,000 customers were involved in the design of the new trains and this included people with a range of disabilities to make sure the new fleet improves accessibility and transforms the journey experience for everyone. The consultation process and design process won an award at the Global Light Rail Awards for innovation.