The latest meeting of the UKTram Heritage Tramways Committee saw recent updates shared and opportunities explored to strengthen engagement with visitors.
Held in person at UKTram’s offices with some participants also joining in remotely, a key theme explored was the role of marketing and communications in supporting heritage tramways to attract and grow visitor numbers. Whilst there is already a strong public interest in heritage transport, it was said that there remains an opportunity to improve visibility and make it easier for people to engage with what is on offer.
Both UKTram and the LRSSB contributed to these discussions with the exploration of how digital channels can support this, including the use of social media, short-form video content and user-generated content to reach wider audiences. The importance of consistency in messaging and maintaining up-to-date online information was also emphasised.
UKTram also outlined how they can help support great visibility through their existing channels. This includes their weekly news round-up where heritage highlights are often included.
Mike Crabtree, Chair of the UKTram Heritage Tramway Committee, commented: “It is very pleasing and a privilege as chair of the Heritage Tramway Committee to see how the various UK heritage tramways are working together to pool and share information in a positive, open and friendly manner.”
The meeting also heard a range of technical and operational updates, including peer audit guidance, asset management, safety developments and ongoing workstreams such as overhead line equipment (OLE) training.
There were also updates on recent developments and winter works, alongside plans for the summer season. These included infrastructure improvements and funding successes across several heritage systems.