Full set of new Metro trains delivered to region
NexusThe full set of new Tyne and Wear Metro trains have been delivered to the region.
The rail service's operator Nexus said it received the final train from Swiss train manufacturer Stadler on 21 February.
It said it aimed to have the full service in operation by the summer. Nexus head Cathy Massarella said the delivery was a "significant moment".
The introduction of the new fleet has faced multiple delays and 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 were currently in operation.
The remaining trains need to go through "rigorous testing" before they can be used by passengers, according to Nexus.
It also said the last remaining old Metro trains would be taken out of service in late spring to early summer.
They are being recycled with two being retained so they can be exhibited at the Stephenson Railway Museum in North Shields and Beamish in County Durham.
One is also being donated to the Tyne and Wear Fire Rescue Service to aid with crew training.
The new £362m fleet was sent to north-east England from Switzerland via the Channel Tunnel.
Stadler head Lucius Gerig said the delivery of the entire set was a "proud moment".
The first new train was delivered in February 2023 but did not go into service until December 2024.
