01.05.12
New-look Class 170s
Source: Rail Technology Magazine Apr/May 2012
ScotRail has been undertaking a comprehensive refurbishment and relivery project across much of its fleet, and the latest to benefit are 33 of the Class 170s. Adam Hewitt reports.
The first batch of the 33 ScotRail Class 170 Turbostars to be refurbished under a £6m enhancement programme are back in service, with interior and exterior make-overs completed.
The work on the four trains, and on the rest of the fleet, is being carried out at Railcare Limited’s depot in Springburn, Glasgow, which has employed 12 extra people for the contract.
Two of the four Class 170s that previously had standard class seats only have now been fitted with new first class compartments.
The refurbishment project is aimed at making the on-board experience a better one for passengers on routes serving Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness, while also unifying the livery and branding under the ‘ScotRail: Scotland’s Railway’ tag, as has been Transport Scotland policy since 2008.
The refurbishment work, which includes new carpets and toilet flooring, all takes place during routine maintenance cycles. Grab poles, table stands and coat hooks are also being re-coated in the new livery colours by Cumbernauld-based Highland Galvanizers & Colour Coaters as part of a £300,000 contract which also includes work on the upgrade of ScotRail’s Class 334 trains.
Steve Montgomery, ScotRail’s managing director, said: “The enhancements mean that our customers can travel in greater comfort. It also supports Transport Scotland’s ongoing roll-out of a new, consistent brand for Scotland’s railway.”
Transport Minister Keith Brown said: “I am delighted to see these newly-refurbished trains now appearing in service and offering passengers a more comfortable and attractive rail journey across the country.
“The Scottish Government is absolutely committed to encouraging as many people as possible onto public transport and facilities like these improved Class 170 diesel trains will go towards achieving that vision.
“This will help reduce our carbon emissions, cut congestion and therefore accidents on the roads and generally make the daily commute and other travel for passengers between Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Perth, Aberdeen and Inverness an even more enjoyable experience.”
Rob Baxter, managing director of Railcare, which is also refurbishing ScotRail’s Class 314 units at its Springburn facility, said: “This programme further emphasises the close working relationship we enjoy with ScotRail, helping them deliver high quality rail services that passengers deserve.”
Geoff Crowley, Highland Galvanizers’ managing director, said: “Our work offers a visual contrast to ensure the interior equipment can be distinguished by visually impaired people, as well as being durable.”
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