The 2026 National Transport Awards were a reason for celebration in Edinburgh with both Edinburgh Trams and Lothian Buses winning Operator of the Year Awards (obviously Tram and Bus Operator of the Year respectively).
Held in London, the National Transport Awards are organised by Transport Times and highlights the unwavering commitment, expertise and innovation of those working tirelessly to improve transport networks across the UK. Its supported by the Department for Transport, Transport Scotland, Transport for Wales, Department for Infrastructure, Transport Focus, Intelligent Transport Systems UK and Urban Transport Group.
The event took place at the Westminster Park Plaza in London on 1st October 2026 with Rob Rinder on hosting duties and Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, giving the keynote speech.
Edinburgh Trams regained the Tram Operator of the Year award (last year saw Blackpool Transport take the honours) after a record-breaking year which saw an increase in passenger numbers by 3.3% as they hit 12.5 passenger journeys whilst also investing in industry-leading ticketing technology and maintain the highest standards of customer service, safety and reliability.
Sarah Boyd, Chief Executive of Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams, said: “I am absolutely delighted that both Lothian and Edinburgh Trams have been recognised at the National Transport Awards.
“These awards are a tremendous honour and a testament to the people who work tirelessly every day to deliver safe, reliable and high-quality public transport for our customers.
“To be recognised as both Bus Operator and Tram Operator of the Year is a fantastic achievement and reflects the strength of Edinburgh’s integrated public transport network. I would like to thank every colleague across both businesses whose dedication, professionalism and commitment have made these successes possible.”
In addition, Sarah Boyd was recognised as Woman of the Year reflecting her leadership of the two organisations and her role in integrating the two operators this year.
Susan Deacon, Chair of Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams, said: “These award wins for Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams are a testament to the dedication, professionalism and commitment shown by colleagues across both organisations
“I would also like to congratulate Sarah on being named Woman of the Year, a thoroughly well-deserved recognition.
“The integration of Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams has been driven in no small part by Sarah’s vision, determination and collaborative approach. Her leadership has helped bring the two organisations closer together, creating a stronger, more joined-up public transport network and laying the foundations for an even better experience for our customers and colleagues.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Sarah and all our colleagues for their outstanding contribution to another exceptional year for public transport in Edinburgh.
“These achievements demonstrate what can be accomplished when talented people work together with a shared purpose, and they position us strongly for the opportunities and challenges ahead as we continue to build an integrated, customer-focused transport network for the city and region.”
- The full list of winners can be viewed at https://www.nta.events/the-winners