Bombardier’s new Class 710/2 ‘Aventra’ train, destined for London Overground’s Gospel Oak to Barking and Watford lines, has received its first limited approval from railway regulator the Office of Rail and Road (ORR).
Originally planned to enter service in May 2018, the new trains have been dogged by ‘technical problems’ which have delayed the programme.
There are still outstanding issues. The ORR approval limits the new train to “single unit operation only, fitted with AWS and TPWS (stand-alone mode only), GSM-R voice only, maximum speed of 75mph, 4-car dual voltage units 710256 to 710273 AC passenger operation only”.
In total, a list of 13 restrictions prohibit the use of Correct Side Door Enable (CSDE) and Automatic Selective Door Operation (ASDO) as well banning use of the de-icing system and setting speed restrictions.
There are also five conditions which have to be met. Interestingly, two of them require both Bombardier and operator Arriva “to reduce the risks of climbing and surfing in the inter-car area to a level which is as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP)”, so it seems the ORR is not only concerned with the safety of passengers but is now having to account for the actions of trespassers and joyriders as well.
