WMR’s Tyseley Depot: £70M Upgrade Boosts Rail Reliability, UK

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Introduction

West Midlands Railway (WMR) has completed a £70 million redevelopment of the Tyseley Traction Maintenance Depot in Birmingham. The project, which involved upgrades to the depot’s infrastructure and facilities, was commemorated at an event attended by the Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, and other rail industry representatives.

Project Overview

The Tyseley Traction Maintenance Depot, now capable of maintaining and servicing 94 trains, is a key component of WMR’s £1 billion investment in rolling stock and supporting facilities. Richard Parker highlighted the importance of the investment in improving the region’s train fleet maintenance, enhancing reliability, and reducing delays.

Funding and Construction

Funding for the three-year upgrade was provided through a partnership with Angel Trains and the Department for Transport. Spencer Rail Engineering, a part of Spencer Group, served as the principal contractor for the construction. Mike Halliday, the Spencer Group’s rail managing director, acknowledged the collaborative approach with WMR, which contributed to completing the project on schedule and within budget.

Infrastructure Upgrades

The modifications at Tyseley were designed to accommodate the new Class 196 fleet, which began operating in 2022 on routes between Birmingham, Hereford, Shrewsbury, Nuneaton, Coventry, and Leamington. The upgraded site also supports maintenance for WMR’s Class 172 trains and CrossCountry’s Class 170 fleet. Capital improvements included an expansion of the main maintenance shed, increasing its capacity from 29 to 38 vehicles, along with updated inspection infrastructure and new train lifting equipment.

Sustainability Initiatives

The depot’s energy supply has been enhanced with the installation of 302 solar panels on the shed roof. These panels are expected to generate approximately 124,000 kWh annually, leading to a projected reduction of 58 tons of carbon emissions per year. John Doughty, WMR’s engineering director, noted that these upgrades are part of a larger investment in new fleets and infrastructure, aimed at improving service reliability and mitigating disruptions.

Conclusion

The £70 million redevelopment of the Tyseley Traction Maintenance Depot by West Midlands Railway is now complete. The upgrades, supported by partnerships and investments, have enhanced the depot’s capacity and capabilities, with a focus on improving service reliability and reducing environmental impact.

Company Summary

West Midlands Railway (WMR): A rail operator that has invested £1 billion in rolling stock and supporting facilities.

Angel Trains: A company that partnered with WMR and the Department for Transport to provide funding.

Spencer Group: The parent company of Spencer Rail Engineering, which served as the principal contractor for the construction.

CrossCountry: A rail operator whose Class 170 fleet is maintained at the depot.

Department for Transport: A governmental body that partnered with Angel Trains and WMR to provide funding.

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