Scottish Government has criticised the latest delay to the introduction of Caledonian Sleeper Mk 5s on the Highlander route.
On June 26, CS said the Mk 5 introduction would be delayed “probably until September”.
In a statement in response, a Transport Scotland spokesman said: “The introduction of new trains often presents significant challenges. However, this latest delay is quite simply unacceptable.
“Given we are fast approaching the height of the tourist season, it is disappointing that many customers are as yet unable to fully enjoy the benefits of the new on-board facilities, particularly as bookings have increased and feedback has been positive where the customer experience reaches the standards we expect.
“While the Caledonian Sleeper team are working to correct train faults, the manufacturer CAF’s inability to supply sufficient suitable trains leaves no other option than for service entry to be postponed. The Highlander service will continue to run with existing trains until this this is resolved.”
This follows two failures within a fortnight that led to the short-forming and cancellation of Lowlander Caledonian Sleeper services made up of new Mk 5 coaches.
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For the FULL story, read RAIL 882, published on July 3, and available digitally on Android, iPad and Kindle from June 29.
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Sam Green - 05/07/2019 11:08
When CS use an ancient Loco with one motor already isolated and it fails on a steep incline shortly after departure CS really bring their problems down on their own heads!!
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