Taking place in early November 2025, TransCityRail North saw transport professionals discuss integrated networks across the north of England. Included in this was the Leader’s Debate: The Future of Light Rail and Mass Transit in the North of England and UKTram were represented during this discussion.
Lindsay Murphy, is a UKTram board member and shared the stage with Melanie Corcoran, Executive Director of Transport at the South Yorkshire Combined Mayoral Combined Authority, and James Hill, Urban Transport Director at Egis.
During the discussion the critical role that light rail plays in building integrated transport networks was explored, especially in cities striving for economic growth and connectivity.
Lindsay commented: “This model works, not just here in the UK but around the world. The mayors understand its value and are fully behind it. What we now need is for central government to uphold their commitment, providing dedicated support and a strategic approach.’’
They also discussed the importance of collective learning from past and current light rail projects, with Lindsay noting that UKTram and its members bring together a wealth of expertise from across the UK and internationally. She also emphasised that while lessons-learned exercises are already embedded in DfT funding requirements, there is still scope to strengthen collaboration and knowledge-sharing across projects.