Two new-look Merseyrail trains are going into service today with designs reflecting the sights, shopping and sport Liverpool has to offer.The current fleet is approaching 40 years old and was last re-liveried 10 years ago. The aim is to ensure that the standards customers have come to expect are maintained until a complete fleet modernisation by spring 2015.
The artistic train ‘wraps’ are part of an £8.5 million investment of essential work carried out on the trains to keep them in good working order, as well as enhancements inside and out.
Angel Trains are contributing £5.5m as part of their lease agreement with Merseytravel, and a further £3m is being provided by Merseyrail.
Councillor John Salter, Merseytravel’s lead member for rail, said: “Merseyrail is officially the best performing rail network in the country. A punctual service combined with a fresh look and feel to our trains and stations is about keeping standards high for regular passengers.
“Thousands of visitors will be descending on the Liverpool City Region this summer and a good experience of the rail network will contribute to the positive lasting impression they will take away.”
The six different wrap designs are said to offer a fresher, brighter image as well as having an important role in helping to prevent corrosion. Internal enhancements are yet to be finalised and will also be introduced in the coming months.
Maarten Spaargaren, Managing Director at Merseyrail commented: “We know that customers appreciate our services for reliability, value for money and the overall journey experience, and we’re sure that the new-look fleet, with its modern, fresh and dynamic designs, will further enhance people’s perception of Merseyrail.”