Coventry City Council have confirmed that they have contracted RailAdventure UK to drive the Very Light Rail vehicle on the city centre demonstration line when it starts operating this summer. The tests are set to get underway during May and June and the appointment of RailAdventure UK means an experienced company in rail operation will be involved, and they will be using a father and son team to do it!
The 220 metre demonstration track is currently being constructed and it is planned to test it over two months this summer (May and June). This will not only be non-passenger tests but it is also planned that some passengers will be carried on the small capacity vehicle as the summer progresses.
Cllr Jim O’Boyle, Coventry City Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration, and Climate Change, said: “This is a significant step in our ongoing testing of Very Light Rail, and it’s fantastic that we’re working with RailAdventureUK to demonstrate this innovative model and prove the benefits it will bring to Coventry.
“Very Light Rail is just the beginning of our plans to revolutionise transport in our city, tackle climate change, improve air quality, and provide a reliable and accessible travel option.
“We will be running Very Light Rail for four weeks, and residents will have the opportunity to experience this one-of-a-kind vehicle and track system and provide feedback on the experience.
“I look forward to travelling in our vehicle on our track and encourage all residents to sign up when available. Details of how to apply will be made available on the council website soon.”
RailAdventure UK are probably most known amongst enthusiasts for their use of HST Powercars on stock moves across the country – including the movement of the new Tyne and Wear Metro trains up the country. They have earnt a reputation by providing support services for rail operations, including running passenger services.
Kevin Walker, Managing Director of RailAdventure UK, said: “This project is a perfect fit for RailAdventure – it’s local, innovative, and uses our operational expertise and passion for bringing new ideas to life! Our local teams will be working on this test.
“With our experience as a rail operator, including battery-powered traction, we are excited to showcase why we believe there is a strong future for this type of operation. We look forward to playing a role in shaping it.”
Coventry Very Light Rail will be the first running of a VLR system in the UK and is considered a pilot (there are hopes in Coventry that the demonstration line could lead to a full system, although this remains unfunded). The 220 metre line being built includes a unique, revolutionary track design and it aims to offer a reliable, frequent, and eco-friendly “hop-on, hop-off” service for Coventry residents.
Richard Parker, Mayor of West Midlands and West Midlands Combined Authority Chair, said: “Very light rail is a revolutionary technology being developed and delivered here in our region – so it’s right that the operator for this first test track should be a West Midlands company.
“The speed at which we can move from starting work to running a tram through Coventry city centre shows the world how fast and efficiently a tram system can be installed. CVLR will play a huge role in delivering on my vision to connect more communities with affordable and accessible public transport.”
During the four week test (which will take place in May and June 2025), members of the public and other stakeholders will have the opportunity to experience CVLR between Greyfriars Road and Queen Victoria Road and provide feedback.