The designs for Southend's new pier trains have been revealed.

Following the announcement that Severn Lamb have won the contract to design, build and install the new pier trains, four different designs for the cab have been proposed, with three different colour options.

Southend Council are now keen to hear the people’s views on which design and colour they like. Residents have until Tuesday January 28 to leave their comments either on the Facebook photo album, responding to their pinned tweet on Twitter, or by visiting the pier entrance where a board will be installed.

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Key features of the new trains will include:

  •          Increased capacity (from 180 to 244)
  •          Increased wheelchair capacity (minimum of six spaces per train with every carriage being wheelchair accessible)
  •          Battery electric
  •          Potential panoramic roof on one or more passenger cars
  •          Speakers and display monitors
  •          On board Wi-Fi
  •          USB charging points
  •          GPS triggered audio announcements
  •          On board CCTV
  •          Hearing loop system and braille driver alert

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Construction of the new pier trains is set to begin mid-2020, with plans in place to replace the existing trains anticipated to take place in 2021.

The council set aside £3.25m in the 2019/20 budget to complete the work.

Councillor Kevin Robinson, cabinet member for business, culture and tourism, said: “I was delighted that the council were able to announce that Severn Lamb had won the contract for the new pier trains. Updating the pier trains is something that has been a priority for some time now, and I am pleased to share the proposed designs with members of the public.

“Each design offers a different style, so we anticipate many people will have differing views on what they would like to see and we look forward to seeing people’s comments that will help inform our final decisions.”

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For more designs, visit the Southend Council website.