New Metro train makes first run on city line
NexusOne of the Tyne and Wear Metro's new trains has made its first run on the network's Sunderland line.
The first of the Metro's new fleet entered service in December after several delays, although the Stadler-built train had been confined to the line running between Newcastle and South Shields.
Metro operator Nexus said another train had now gone from South Hylton and Sunderland city centre on its way to Newcastle Airport in what it called an "important step" for its new fleet.
Forty-six new trains are due to replace Metro's ageing stock over the next two years with half of them scheduled to be running by the end of 2025.
Nexus managing director Cathy Massarella said it was a "historic moment for Metro to see the new train travelling across the River Wear with customers on board".
'Vital lifeline'
Earlier this month, the organisation confirmed the new trains did not yet have permission to run on tracks owned by Network Rail, which manages the line from Pelaw, in South Tyneside, to South Hylton.
Ms Massarella said Nexus had "worked closely" with the organisation "to get everything in place" for the first journey in Sunderland.
Councillor Michael Mordey, leader of the city council, said people in the area would welcome the train's arrival.
"The Metro provides a vital lifeline for many in Sunderland and the introduction of the new trains should not only make for vastly better, more comfortable and more reliable journeys for the many passengers who rely on it, but will encourage more people to use the service."
The new trains include air conditioning, USB charging points and a sliding step at every door.
They also have London Tube-style liner seating, designed to make them more spacious.