A delegation from Centro went on a fact finding mission to Kassel in Germany at the start of June to see first hand how trams and heavy rail share the same track. It is hoped that future extensions of Midland Metro may well see track sharing used.
The system uses new technology to run trams, traditional passenger trains and freight services on the same track. This, according to Centro, offers exciting possibilities for Midland Metro extensions. One such possibility, which is to be explored between Centro, the seven district councils, Network Rail, train operators and other stakeholders, is the potential to share the planned Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension with rail freight services.
This would remove the need to build a separate heavy rail track alongside the tram – reducing construction costs. The line could also then be extended through to Stourbridge Junction where it would connect with the national rail network.
Cllr Angus Adams, Lead Member on Centro for District Liaison and Metro Extensions, said: “This visit showed us that not only can trams and passenger trains share the same lines, but there is also considerable mixed running with freight. We were very impressed with the extensive Kassel system, which is helping people to support the environment by leaving their cars at home. There are significant opportunities to use this kind of technology throughout the West Midlands where better use could be made of our railway lines which would reduce the cost of future rail and rapid transit routes."
Source: Centro