Glasgow subway to close on Sundays so new trains can be tested

Glasgow’s Subway is set to close for two Sundays to allow the start of “fault-free” train testing in its system.

This is in an effort to give new trains a chance to run the necessary 2000 miles – around 308 laps of the line – before manufacturer Stadler hands them over to SPT.

The subway will be closed to passengers on July 30 and August 20.

“Fault-free” run testing is standard practice for the introduction of any new trains – if, for any reason, a train does develop a fault during the fault-free running, it is removed from the system.

The fault is then fixed and the clock resets on the 2000 miles, so the process can take some time.

While these planned Sunday closures in July and August are to facilitate the testing, it is expected further Sunday closures will be necessary to continue the install of new communications and signalling.

These dates will be scheduled later in the year.

SPT head of engineering Mark Toner said: “This is the last stage in the critical train testing programme before the new trains can be introduced into passenger service.

“While the trains have been thoroughly tested both off-site at our dedicated train track and in the system at night, they now have to complete 2000 miles in the system – that’s about 308 times round the Subway – fault-free.

“I know Subway users have been very keen to see the new trains in service – as have we – so this is a very exciting time for everyone involved.”