Tuesday 28 June 2016

Safety Concerns for Newcastle's Future Light Rail

BY BRIDGET GUNN

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union has accused the NSW Government of failing to add important safety features on the proposed new light rail cars in Newcastle.

This has raised concerns that the Government is trying to cut costs at the expense of passenger safety.

The trams allegedly lack Automatic Train Protection devices, which monitor track conditions and maintain the safe operation of the trams.

Divisional Secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union Chris Preston says the cost of these anti-collision safety devices is worth any expense to ensure the safety of passengers.

"Trams around the world and Australia have this device," says Mr Preston.

"Now we have got time to get involved and make sure that the Newcastle trams, they need to have them on."

A proposed image of a Light Rail tram turning into Newcastle's Hunter Street
Source: The Newcastle Herald