26 March 2003
£2m boost for train passenger comfort and information
Cllr Eric Ross, Chair of Strathclyde Passenger Transport (SPT), today unveiled the first train in a £2 million investment programme that will see improved passenger comfort, new electronic Passenger Information Systems and Passenger Counting Systems on the SPT rail network.
The 22-strong fleet of 'Class 320' trains, which serve the Strathclyde area, are currently being refurbished at Hunslet Barclay works in Kilmarnock, with the work being jointly financed by SPT and HSBC Rail.
Work to refresh and improve the trains will make a dramatic difference to the rolling stock and put 22 virtually new trains on to the network. The refurbished trains will be have better internal lighting, brighter interiors, new seating, additional tables and new luggage racks.
All units will also be fitted with a Passenger Information System which includes announcements and visual information about the train destination and all relevant station stops.
Commenting on the investment Chair of SPT, Cllr Eric Ross said: "This £2 million investment will see 22 virtually new trains on the SPT rail network. The upgraded units will mean passengers can sit back in a fresh and inviting carriage and never miss their station stop thanks to the new on-train announcements and electronic display information.
"There will also be significant service-planning improvements thanks to the new state-of-the-art Passenger Counting System. The system will provide improved data collection on passenger numbers and movements, enabling us to use this information when planning services and timetables.
"SPT are proud to be working in partnership with HSBC Rail and ScotRail to deliver these improvements, and pleased that local company Hunslet Barclay in Kilmarnock are carrying out the upgrade on our behalf."
Ellen Harwood, head of commercial services at HSBC Rail said: "We are pleased to be a partner in this project and the benefits it will bring to passengers. This demonstrates HSBC's continued investment in both new and refurbished rolling stock for the Scottish network"
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