New Merseyrail trains set to enter service imminently
A new deal with train drivers has finally been agreed
The long-awaited roll out of the new Merseyrail trains is set to begin in a matter of days.
It's after a deal with drivers in the Aslef union was agreed today.
The new trains will replace the existing fleet entirely, starting on the Kirkby line.
Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram said:
“The agreement between Merseyrail and ASLEF is brilliant news for us because it gives the green light to launch our region’s new £500m fleet of publicly owned trains into action. We are enormously grateful to passengers for their patience during this process but the day we have all been waiting for has finally arrived!
“Throughout this process, all parties have worked diligently to ensure that passengers can enjoy our new trains as soon as possible. We’ve worked with the trade unions and train operator to help deliver a fair deal for everyone; one that protects jobs, enhances the role of a second safety critical member of staff on every train and provides passengers with value for money.
“Unlike the government’s approach nationally, we’ve shown that there is a better way to handle these matters – and it’s by getting everyone around the table and working together in good faith.
“These new £500m publicly-owned trains will be the envy of towns and cities across the country. By putting our principles into practice, we have developed the most sophisticated and accessible local trains in the UK - symbolic of our wider efforts to modernise and grow the Liverpool City Region.
“Today is a massive milestone in my journey to build the London-style transport system that our area deserves. These new trains will bring the region’s rail network into the 21st century.
“Alongside the work we’re doing to take back control of our buses, investments in active travel, and work to simplify and integrate ticketing, I want to build a network that is cheaper, faster, cleaner and more reliable.
“We’ll be announcing the schedule for the phased introduction of our new trains imminently – watch this space!”