Stadler To Work In Partnership With Newcastle University

Newcastle University and Stadler have formally agreed to work together on a broad range of initiatives, signing a MoU to endorse their partnership. The Swiss train-builder has a contract to build 42 new trains for the Tyne and Wear Metro and to service and maintain them for 35 years, demonstrating its support of the regional economy, local jobs and the supply chain in Tyne and Wear.

The two organisations’ pledge to collaborate with each other relates to all aspects of the new trains programme, including the technology and knowledge required for their construction, as well as for maintaining them at Gosforth depot in Newcastle. Joint projects will cover several areas, incorporating research, education and innovation. Although the initiatives have not yet been confirmed, they are likely to cover energy conservation at a systems level, condition monitoring and driver-training. The agreement is for five years, to be reviewed thereafter.

Stadler has pledged to support the regional economy and involve as many Tyne and Wear-based companies and institutions in the new trains project as possible. It is keen to use local suppliers for materials and services required for the depot re-build, the manufacturing of the new trains and the ongoing service and maintenance of both the legacy fleet and the new trains. Next year, it will for the third time be the headline sponsor of EMCON, the annual regional networking event at Newton Aycliffe, County Durham. Committed to nurturing talent, Stadler will invest in its workforce, providing employees with the education and training needed for 21st century trains.