Northern brings in bodycams as refurbishment of trains is now complete

More than 260 trains have now been through the first phase of refurbishment which has seen each carriage fully repainted and fitted out with new seating, carpet and lighting.

And the rail operator has turned to technology to deliver the safest possible rail network for its customers.

As part of an ongoing programme of transformation, the rail operator is introducing more than 350 body-worn cameras for staff across the north of England.

The cameras, which will be worn by staff at stations and on trains, will not record all the time, but will be used to capture ongoing incidents or to help secure evidence for British Transport Police.

The final train unit to go through the revamp process, 158861, was completed at Arriva Train Care in Crewe last week and is now ready to carry Northern customers.

Tricia Williams, Northern’s chief operating officer, said: “The first phase of refurbishment began almost four years ago and it’s fantastic to see the final train completed.

“Two hundred and sixty eight trains have been through this process which means that, wherever our customers travel on the Northern network, they will do so either on a brand-new train, or on a refurbished train that looks as good as new.

“I’d like to thank all the companies who have helped with the first phase of the refurbishment programme.”

Mark Powles, commercial and customer director at Northern, said: “We have already improved CCTV at many of our stations, and on our trains, to enhance security. The use of body-worn cameras is the next step to tackle any potential anti-social or criminal behaviour.

“Thankfully, the rail network is relatively crime free, yet we are absolutely committed to making our trains and stations as safe as possible and the new cameras will help us achieve this.”