Explanatory note

This Order authorises the use of specified rail vehicles forming Class 357 multiple-units although they do not conform with provisions of the Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations 1998 because—

• warning sounds are emitted whenever the passenger doors in the sides of the vehicles are closed;

• passenger operation of some doors is by means of beam-operated sensors;

• the door control devices for doors in the sides of the vehicles are positioned above the maximum permissible height;

• the vehicles have neither the required minimum number of priority seats nor any tables at these priority seats they do have;

• the vehicles have no public address systems;

• the structure at the end of each wheelchair space is narrower than the required minimum width;

• the wheelchair space alarm is not always operable by the palm of the hand.

It sets time limits on the authorisations and imposes conditions.

It incorporates the provisions of the Rail Vehicle Accessibility (LTS Rail Class 357 Vehicles) Exemption Order 1999, which is revoked.