Explanatory note

This Order authorises the use of specified rail vehicles forming Class 458 electrical multiple-units, although they do not conform with certain requirements of the Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations 1998 because:

• doorway warning sounds cannot be heard outside the vehicle;

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

• door controls are not positioned as required;

• internal door controls are not illuminated;

• the band of colour on the step-tread is too wide;

• there is no step illumination

• handrails at external doors are not positioned as required;

• the characters for internal visual announcements are smaller than required; and

• the toilet cubicle for disabled persons in wheelchairs does not meet the requirement that such a person may wash and dry his hands without moving from the toilet and the requirement that there must be sufficient space for a reference wheelchair in front of and beside the toilet.

It sets time limits on the authorisation and imposes conditions.