Click here to listen to the latest rail news on Thursday, 9th November 2023
InTheNews: The latest rail news on Thursday, 9th November 2023
After talks between the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) and the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, a so-called memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been developed and sets out a process for a mutually agreed way forward.
An article on LBC says that will include a backdated 2022 pay rise for staff and job security guarantees, the RMT said.
RMT members in each of the train operating companies involved in the row will now vote on the suggested agreement.
London North Eastern Railway (LNER) has announced that CAF is the successful bidder to deliver a fleet of 10 new tri-mode trains for LNER. Porterbrook has been chosen as the financier of the new fleet.
The trains will be able to operate in electric, battery or diesel mode.
David Horne, Managing Director at LNER, said: “Our focus is ensuring we create a fleet that truly matches the needs of all our customers, with clear targets on setting new standards for comfort, accessibility, and exceptional customer service.”
Railway Children is calling on the rail community to come together to protect hundreds of vulnerable children who will go missing from home this Christmas.
The charity’s Christmas campaign – which launched this week – focuses on its UK programme to raise awareness of vulnerability on the rail network and help children and families facing crisis.
Every day, 28 children are found lost, alone and vulnerable at transport hubs across the UK. Many are using the railways to escape problems at home, including family conflict, abuse and neglect – and with each hour that a child is missing, the risks increase. Reports show that 25 per cent of children who run away will face exploitation, violent crime or alcohol and drug abuse.
A heritage railway could reopen as part of a £25 million plan to transform a disused ironworks into a visitor attraction.
An article on the BBC website says Elsecar Heritage Centre in Barnsley would also feature a new rail college and an outdoor events centre.
Volunteers reopened a one-mile (1.6 km) section of track in 1996, but it closed during the COVID lockdown in 2020.
Barnsley Council said the reopened line would offer rides on a reconstructed steam train from 1849, powered by sustainable fuels.
Photo credit: Railway Children
