UKTram – the body who represent the UK tram and light sector – have said that the change of government will represent a golden opportunity for the sector to refocus on its immediate challenges ahead of longer-term goals. The new Labour government was elected on 4th July and are now starting to set out their plans for the next five years.
The recent national Light Rail conference (held in Leeds) heard from James Hammett, Managing Director of UKTram: “Beyond projects that are already in the pipeline or already underway, including here in West Yorkshire, the train/tram scheme in Cardiff, and extensions to West Midlands Metro, it may appear that things have slowed when it comes to light rail growth.
“However, existing networks are preparing for major renewals programmes for both infrastructure and rolling stock, and it is vital that we work together to achieve the most effective solutions for the sector and our customers.
“Work being done in Coventry to explore the potential of Very Light Rail will also open up new possibilities further down the line, and we must continue to explore new technologies that will drive down the costs associated with future mass transit schemes.
“While the new government is unlikely to pledge fresh funding for new large-scale schemes in the near future, its commitment to greater devolution also presents fresh opportunities for our sector, including the promotion of smaller-scale projects utilising tram/train and VLR options.”
He went on to discuss UKTram’s continued commitment to supporting the sharing of best practice across the sector through working groups and Centre of Excellence.
James added: “It is also more important than ever to promote the many benefits of tramways and similar mass transit systems to national, regional and local decision-makers, as well as the wider travelling public.
“Looking to the longer-term, we will continue to press the case for light rail as a way for government to boost economic growth, improve connectivity and meet ambitious environmental targets.”
Unfortunately their optimism seems misplaced as the new chancellor has already cut transport projects. It looks like the same old story continues with no good outcome.