The UKTram Centre of Excellence have met again to review progress on several technical and strategic projects. The latest focus was on tramway design guidance and developing skills and apprenticeship pathways for the light rail sector.
At the most recent meeting they discussed ongoing work to support Mixed Use Railway approaches, building on learning from tram-train and shared-use operations. Members noted the importance of capturing experience and guidance to support more efficient integration between light rail and the wider rail network, with the aim of reducing complexity and improving deliverability for future schemes.
The Tramway Design Working Group also gave an update confirming that two major guidance documents are now in the final stages of development. These include new Cost Reduction and Efficient Design Guidance and Transport and Works Act statutory process guidance, both aimed at supporting more consistent, efficient and deliverable tramway schemes. Early feedback on the statutory guidance, including from the DfT, has been highly positive.
Skills and workforce development also featured in discussions. There has been growing engagement around light rail apprenticeships, including ongoing conversations with Skills England and increased interest from the DfT in understanding existing frameworks and opportunities across the sector.
The UKTram Centre of Excellence will next meet on 2nd April 2026.