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OK so far for guideway

17th March 1984, Page 20
17th March 1984
Page 20
Page 20, 17th March 1984 — OK so far for guideway
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WEST MIDLANDS PTE's guided bus scheme for Birmingham has passed its first major hurdle, after successful tests at the Mira test track at Nuneaton, reports TIM COBB.

The tests, carried out secretly on March 6-7, involved setting up a guided route at Mira and examining an MCW Metrobus 2 for structural stress and any complications arising from the test route.

WMPTE planning and engineering director Bob Crawford told CM: "We wanted to be sure that we have not overloaded the steering and structural parts. The tests have proved successful and we will be carrying out more tests on the instrumentation at Mira over the next five to six months."

If these additional tests prove successful, then the only other hurdle is Department of Transport approval. Mr Crawford said that the DTp has taken a keen interest in the scheme and added that he would not expect any problems in gaining approval.

And if the initial 600m guided bus route in Birmingham is a success, then undulating and corner sections will be built at Mira for further testing and possible implementation.

The Metrobuses will have a unique metallic silver livery.

Going hand-in-hand with the scheme is a package of improvements for the passenger. WMPTE director-general James Isaac said: "Bus shelters are being redesigned complete with ramps and handrails for the handicapped and parents with push chairs. They will have a row of tip-up seats for added comfort."

Another plan is to have either information display boards or a radio link at the bus shelter to tell passengers when the next bus is due.

Construction of the route will start by the beginning of May and should take about four months to complete.

Tags

Organisations: Department of Transport
Locations: Birmingham

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