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Metrolink welcomes a new operator

Posted: 17 July 2017 | Intelligent Transport | 1 comment

Greater Manchester’s Metrolink tram system has welcomed KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM) as the new operator to run the iconic network.

Greater Manchester’s Metrolink tram system has welcomed KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM) as the new operator to run the iconic network.

Metrolink new operator

KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM), a joint venture partnership of leading global public transport operator, Keolis, and infrastructure asset management specialist, Amey, has taken over the reins from former operator, Metrolink RATP Dev Ltd (MRDL).

“Firstly, I’d like to place on record my thanks to MRDL for all their work and pay tribute to the staff who have played a crucial part in making the network what it is today – a fantastic, world-class light rail system,” said Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee (TfGMC). ““KeolisAmey Metrolink is a partnership between two international transport and infrastructure management specialists, with the experience and skills to operate Metrolink, create jobs, support the growth of the local economy and deliver innovative and pragmatic solutions that offer better passenger experiences.

“These are exciting times for Metrolink and the city-region and I warmly welcome KAM as the Metrolink operator. Together we will further realise the full potential and benefits of the unprecedented growth and investment we are overseeing in the network.”

The change in operator also sees the appointment of Aline Frantzen as Managing Director for KAM. Aline joins the business following 17 successful years with Yarra Trams, the world’s largest light rail network in Melbourne, Australia, which is also operated by Keolis.

“We are looking forward to working with TfGM, our partners and the community to implement our exciting plans for what is already a high-performing network,” Aline Frantzen added. ” Our approach will be focused on collaboratively working to keep Greater Manchester moving and growing.”

Key features of the new contract include a focus on improving operational reliability, and customer service and security – with an increased staff presence on the network, particularly in the evening and at weekends. KAM plans on sourcing a minimum of 40% of supplier contracts within 25 miles of Greater Manchester and creating over 300 jobs including drivers, apprenticeships and traineeships over the course of the contract, with more than 60 of those new jobs having already started, following the recruitment of additional Customer Service Representatives and Travel Safe Officers, as well as more drivers.

The new contract, to operate as well as maintain the system, will run for up to 10 years.

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