Representatives from the industry body UKTram have recently been involved in two major industry events where they helped to highlight the growing role of light rail as part of an integrated transport network. The events provided valuable opportunities to engage with organisations involved in infrastructure, engineering, operations, innovation, and regional transport development.
James Hammett, Managing Director at UKTram, attended the Railway Engineering Institution technical seminar in Leeds where he was able to give an update on the expanding role of light rail in urban transport networks and regional connectivity.
His presentation addressed the growing recognition of light rail in national transport policy, government investment in local transport, devolved decision-making and light rail’s role in sustainable economic growth.
The event also saw Richard Hines, HM Chief Inspector of Railways at the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), give a keynote session who explored light rail from the regulator’s perspective. He highlighted the collaborative and supportive culture across the light rail sector, noting how both UKTram and the LRSSB have played a positive role in driving knowledge sharing. He also reflected on how the wider heavy rail sector could learn from the openness and partnership approach often seen within light rail.
Following the event James Hammett said: “It was a valuable seminar with strong engagement and positive discussion throughout the day. There is clearly growing interest in the role light rail can play within future transport networks, particularly as regions look at long-term connectivity and sustainable growth.
“It was also great to continue conversations with West Yorkshire at such an important point in the development of their mass transit plans and discuss how UKTram can support knowledge sharing and wider sector collaboration as schemes progress.”
UKTram were also present at UK Rail 2026, where they were a strategic partner. This two day exhibition and conference saw light rail and future urban mobility highlighted and saw discussions among organisations in rail infrastructure, technology, operations, engineering, digital systems, and transport innovation, with a growing interest in light rail’s role in future integrated transport networks.
Amongst the light rail items on the programme, Nicola Small gave a presentation on Very Light Rail’s contribution to urban mobility and connectivity whilst UKTram Stakeholder and Innovation Manager, Tim Bilby, presented on lessons wider rail can learn from light rail, focusing on customer experience and clearer journey design.
Tim Bilby commented: “UK Rail hosted a valuable environment for discussion and collaboration across different parts of the industry. It was particularly encouraging to see growing interest in light rail from organisations across heavy rail, aviation and other sectors, looking at how they can contribute to future transport solutions.
“There was a strong sense throughout the event that light rail is becoming an increasingly important part of the wider transport conversation.”
UK Rail also saw UK Tram staff Dan Hill, Knowledge Manager, and Chelsea Branch, Digital Marketing Manager, hosting a small Rising Stars session which explored the different pathways people take into rail and light rail careers.