TRAIN companies in the south have asked for a further extension to use slam-door trains.

South Eastern trains which operate between London and North Kent are one of three franchises who have applied to the Health and Safety Executive for the extra time.

Slam-door trains are due to be taken out of service by December 2004.

The HSE said it was minded to allow the companies to use the old stock as long as they were withdrawn as soon as it is practical.

In 1999, the companies agreed to withdraw the old Mark one stock because of concerns over the doors and lack of protection during a crash.

The HSE wants to agree a programme, by the end of 2004, to put in place measures to minimise safety risks with older trains as part of the deal.

The HSE will now consult the rail industry before deciding whether to approve the plan which will give the companies permission to use the older-style trains until November 2005.

South Eastern's spokesperson Sarah Boundy told KM-fm the latest position...