DRS to Maintain Growing Fleet of Class 93 Locomotives at Gresty Bridge

Rail Operations Group has confirmed a new two-year agreement with Direct Rail Services to provide storage and maintenance for its Class 93 locomotive fleet at Crewe.

Under the deal, the locomotives will be based at the Gresty Bridge depot, where engineering teams from DRS will deliver servicing, maintenance and storage support as the fleet continues to expand its presence across the UK rail network.

Direct Rail Services already has significant experience maintaining Stadler-built locomotives, making the Crewe facility well suited to support the introduction and ongoing operation of the Class 93 fleet.

The Class 93 represents the latest development in Stadler’s UK locomotive range. Designed as a mixed-traffic tri-mode locomotive, it builds on the established Class 68 and Class 88 fleets while introducing enhanced AC electric, diesel and battery capabilities to improve efficiency and operational flexibility.

Brian Ferguson, General Manager at Rail Operations Group, said:

“We’re pleased to be working with Direct Rail Services to support the Class 93 fleet at Gresty Bridge. When the opportunity emerged to work with DRS, it was a natural choice. Their experience maintaining Stadler products, combined with established facilities and a centralised location, Gresty Bridge is the ideal base to support the continued operation and development of the fleet as we expand its use across a growing range of services. We look forward to working closely with the DRS team. Alongside our own specialist Class 93 engineering team, this agreement ensures the locomotives will benefit from the highest level of technical expertise while providing a strong platform for us to continue demonstrating the capabilities of this state-of-the-art locomotive.”

Tony Hewitson, Interim Rail Director at DRS, which is part of Nuclear Transport Solutions, said:

“This agreement showcases the expertise and engineering excellence offered by our organisation and its employees. We have been operating and maintaining Class 68s and 88s for over 10 years and are excited to support Rail Operations Group with the skills and technical experience we have gained during that period.”

Image: DRS