Tyne and Wear Metro trains deliveries complete in the region

Tyne and Wear Metro trains have now all been delivered to the region, completing the arrival of the new fleet in north-east England. Nexus said it received the final train from Swiss manufacturer Stadler on 21 February, as reported by BBC News.

Tyne and Wear Metro trains delivered as fleet rollout continues

Nexus said it aims to have the full service in operation by the summer. Its head, Cathy Massarella, described the completed delivery as a “significant moment”.

The fleet’s introduction has faced multiple delays. Passengers were initially told the 46 new trains would be in operation by the end of 2023. Massarella said more than half of the new trains are currently in operation.

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Nexus timeline: testing, service target and delays

Meanwhile, Nexus said the remaining trains still need to complete “rigorous testing” before they can be used by passengers. Also, the operator said the last remaining old Metro trains would be taken out of service from late spring to early summer.

In addition, the £362m fleet was sent from Switzerland to north-east England via the Channel Tunnel, as Nexus noted in its update on Nexus takes delivery of all 46 new Stadler Metro trains. Stadler head Lucius Gerig described the delivery of the entire set as a “proud moment”.

What happens to the old Metro trains?

Separately, Nexus said the outgoing Metro trains are being recycled, with two retained for exhibition. One train is also being donated to the Tyne and Wear Fire Rescue Service to support crew training.

Still, the first of the new trains was delivered in February 2023, but did not go into service until December 2024, as previously covered by Railway Supply.

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