PLATFORM WORKS TO FACILITATE LEVEL BOARDING
Moving Wheels
MERSEYTRAVEL HAS announced a programme of modifications to platforms on the Merseyrail network to prepare for the arrival of a new fleet of Stadler-built Class 777 EMUs.
The Class 777s are designed with a lower floor height than most UK fleets, and will have an intelligent sliding step that will be deployed at every station. This will provide a standard 35mm gap between the step and the platform, including at the 48% of Merseyrail platforms that are curved. It is claimed that this, coupled with adjustments to the infrastructure by Network Rail, will make Merseyrail the most accessible network in the UK.
A power supply upgrade will also be undertaken for the new fleet to increase the reliability and consistency of the electricity supply in the third rail.
MULTIPLE PLANTS FOR ASSEMBLY
A total of 52x4-car Class 777 EMUs has been ordered from Stadler by Merseytravel for the Merseyrail network. The design of the new fleet is due to be signed off by the end of the summer, and recent modifications include changes to the colour of exterior doors (from silver to yellow) and of the seat moquette, the removal of tip-up seats from the wheelchair bay and their…
