First New Train lands at Belfast Harbour
19 April 2004
The first of Translink’s 23 new trains currently being built by Spanish company CAF, landed in Belfast today (19 April).
“The arrival of the first train is a momentous occasion and represents a true milestone in NI Railway’s history”, said Keith Moffatt, Translink’s Chief Executive.
“The development of these trains has been a huge project and we are delighted to see the arrival of the first new train in Northern Ireland. It marks the beginning of a very exciting period for NI Railways and a significant step in the renaissance of rail travel in Northern Ireland and indeed for public transport in general.
“The £80 million investment in rolling stock will go a long way towards improving levels of reliability and comfort, as well as the perception of rail as a modern, convenient means of transport. Every opportunity has been taken during the design period to ensure that passengers will benefit from the latest technical innovations, resulting in a smoother ride and quieter rail travel.
“Safety has been of paramount concern and the trains meet the latest European safety standards. Following delivery, each train will be subjected to a rigorous phase of testing by our team of engineers before entering public service towards the end of this year. The extensive testing phase for each train will ensure that every aspect of the vehicles will be proved before they are put into regular service.
“Each train will have to complete 2000 miles of fault free running, which is the equivalent of 10 return trips to Dublin. During this period, staff will also receive extensive training in the operation of the trains. Much of this track testing will take place in night time hours and we would appeal to local communities living near the railway line to be vigilant and not to trespass at anytime of the day or night. The new trains are quieter and may be travelling at speeds of up to 90mph.
Mr Moffatt went on to outline the delivery schedule for the remainder of the trains.
“Additional units will follow in the weeks after the first delivery, and there will be three trains undergoing simultaneous testing this summer. Pending the success of this testing phase, we expect all trains to be delivered by mid-2005 and in service by the end of next year.” He concluded.
Ends.
For further press information, contact Lynda Shannon, Communications Manager, Translink on 028 90 899 433
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