The regional government for the Rotterdam and The Hague is backing the loan with a guarantee.
Six Bombardier Flexity Swift sets were ordered in 2015 at a cost of €30m to strengthen the fleet and to increase frequencies during peak times, in particular on Randstad Rail Line E between Rotterdam and The Hague. The other 16 sets were ordered in 2014 at a cost of €66m for operation on the line to Hook of Holland, which is currently a heavy rail line operated by Netherlands Railways (NS). Delivery is due to take place next year.
The line will be converted for light rail operation and connected to the Rotterdam metro network. The loan for signalling and safety will be spent on this conversion.
However, the line will still be used by freight trains to serve customers at various locations in the northern part of the Port of Rotterdam.
