A 2-year agreement has been signed by Rail Operations Group and Direct Rail Services that will see the Class 93 locomotives stored and maintained at DRS’ Gresty Bridge Depot in Crewe.

The class 93s will be maintained by DRS’ engineering team as the deployment of the fleet continues to grow.

Direct Rail Services already have a fleet of Stadler locomotives (Class 68s and 88s), in which the newer Class 93s are built upon with AC, Diesel and Battery traction available.

“We’re pleased to be working with Direct Rail Services to support the Class 93 fleet at Gresty Bridge.

“When the opportunity emerged to work with DRS, it was a natural choice. Their experience maintaining Stadler products, combined with established facilities and a centralised location, Gresty Bridge is the ideal base to support the continued operation and development of the fleet as we expand its use across a growing range of services. We look forward to working closely with the DRS team.

“Alongside our own specialist Class 93 engineering team, this agreement ensures the locomotives will benefit from the highest level of technical expertise while providing a strong platform for us to continue demonstrating the capabilities of this state-of-the-art locomotive.”

Brian Ferguson, General Manager at Rail Operations Group

“This agreement showcases the expertise and engineering excellence offered by our organisation and its employees. We have been operating and maintaining Class 68s and 88s for over 10 years and are excited to support Rail Operations Group with the skills and technical experience we have gained during that period.”

Tony Hewitson, Interim Rail Director at DRS, which is part of Nuclear Transport Solutions