A charity supporting individuals with sight and hearing loss in Gateshead and South Tyneside recently had the opportunity to experience the new Metro trains before they enter service later this year.
Sense Ability Matters (SAM) participated in a familiarisation event on the new Stadler Metro train at the Nexus Learning Centre in South Shields.
This event allowed the group to see how their feedback influenced the final design of the new £362m Metro fleet. They explored various accessibility features, such as the automatic sliding step and the new audio and visual technology, which will enhance Metro access for people with visual and hearing impairments.
Stadler, the Swiss train manufacturer, is constructing 46 new Metro trains. The first train is set to enter service this year.
A total of 23,000 customers, including individuals with various disabilities, were involved in the design process to ensure the new fleet improves accessibility and transforms the journey experience for everyone. This consultation and design process has already won an innovation prize from the Global Light Rail Awards.
This visit followed a series of familiarisation events held for specialist user groups at the end of 2023.
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.”
So far, Stadler has delivered 11 new trains to North East England, with more expected to arrive later this year.
The Class 555 Stadler train is a unique design for Metro. Alongside training, rigorous testing is being conducted to ensure compatibility with signalling systems and other Metro infrastructure.
The new trains will also feature modern amenities such as linear seating, charging points, and air conditioning, while significantly enhancing accessibility.
Photo Credit: Nexus
