Explanatory note

This Order authorises the use for carriage of specified rail vehicles which form the fleet of Class 390 electric multiple-units, even though they do not conform with certain provisions in the Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations 1998 (S.I. 1998/2456, amended by S.I. 2000/3215) because:

• the carpets in the vestibule do not contrast sufficiently with the carpets in the adjacent passenger saloon;

• more force than is permitted is required to operate a refrigerator door handle; and

• the tables fitted in the wheelchair spaces can be fixed at a level lower than the minimum specified by the Regulations.

The Order sets time limits on the exemptions and imposes conditions.

A full regulatory impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as it has no impact on the costs of business.