Steve Duckering, UKTram’s Operations Manager, spent time at the 81st UITP Light Rail Committee Meeting in Toronto from 27th to 29th October 2025, and whilst there as well as representing the UK light rail sector also shared the UKTram vision for future growth.
Steve presented “A Vision in Motion: UKTram’s Blueprint for the Next Phase of Light Rail” which outlined the organisation’s long-term strategy and the work of its member systems to strengthen the case for sustainable urban transport. He also highlighted growing international interest in the Very Light Rail trial in Coventry which sparked discussion on modular track innovation and autonomous technology.
The Committee Meeting is a biannual event and brings together representatives from systems across Europe, North America, Asia and South America. In this meeting they got together to explore emerging trends in light rail, such as vehicle maintenance and socioeconomic impact.
Delegates also enjoyed a tour of Toronto’s extensive streetcar network and maintenance facilities to gain insight into the operation of a 24-hour system serving one of North America’s largest cities.
Steve commented: “The UITP Light Rail Committee offers a truly global platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration. It was encouraging to see such strong interest in UK-led innovation and to continue contributing to UITP’s working groups, which play a role in shaping light rail worldwide.”