Friday 22nd March will see a change of operator for the Supertram network as the newly formed company South Yorkshire Future Tram Limited (SYFTL) takes control of the network across Sheffield and the surrounding area. The company has been set-up by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) who now resume ownership following 27 years of Stagecoach operation.
So far, there has been a bit of a drip feed of information released about the change (with Stagecoach announcing ticketing changes with their single operator bus and tram tickets no longer being available) but as the date approaches more information will become public – and that will include a new look website and app where tickets will be able to be purchased.
SYMCA have also stated that the change in ownership “forms part of our wider ambitions to position Supertram as part of a fully integrated public transport network for South Yorkshire. We are exploring opportunities for renewal, improvement and even extension of the network and will be engaging in public consultation to help shape the future development of Supertram.”
As from 22nd March any passengers travelling on the network should see very little change (except for the removal of Stagecoach exclusive tickets). Existing Supertram colleagues will be transferred over to the new business and there are no plans to change the timetable.
There will be a new app available from app stores as from 20th March and this will offer both tram and TravelMaster tickets.
To celebrate the change in ownership it has also been announced that a 10% discount will be introduced on some tram-only fares until 30th June 2024. The discount will apply to tram and app purchases, on 1, 5, 7 and 28 day tickets purchased either on board the trams or using the app. There will be no discount on single or return tickets though.