MERSEYRAIL PREPARES FOR ‘777s’

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.

Sliding step: impression with the step deployed to give level entry. Courtesy Merseytravel

MULTIPLE PLANTS FOR ASSEMBLY

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