Why are passengers concerned about the new Tyne and Wear Metro trains?

A passenger with mobility issues has raised concerns that the new trains lack sufficient grab rails, making it difficult to safely reach seats.

What is the seating arrangement on the new Metro trains?

The new Tyne and Wear Metro trains feature London Tube-style linear seating designed to be more spacious.

How is Nexus addressing passenger feedback on the new trains?

Nexus is monitoring passenger experiences and feedback closely, with teams on trains to assess interactions and identify potential future enhancements beyond regulatory compliance.

Home / Lifestyle / Metro's New Trains Lack Grab Rails, Passenger Worries

Metro's New Trains Lack Grab Rails, Passenger Worries

20 Apr

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Summary

Passenger with mobility issues calls for more grab rails.
New trains feature London Tube-style linear seating.
Operator Nexus monitors passenger feedback for improvements.

Metro's New Trains Lack Grab Rails, Passenger Worries

A passenger with mobility challenges has urged the Tyne and Wear Metro to install additional grab rails on its new trains. Paula Mitchinson, who uses a cane due to thinning bones, expressed distress over the lack of adequate handholds for reaching seats on the modern carriages.

The new Metro trains are equipped with spacious, linear seating, similar to London Underground trains. Mitchinson stated that while the layout may suit able-bodied individuals or wheelchair users, it presents difficulties for those with walking aids.