The Managing Director of UKTram \u2013 the industry body who represent the interests of trams and light rail in the UK \u2013 thinks that 2024 could be a pivotal year for light rail. James Hammett has told members that it is now more important than ever to press the case for tramways and similar transit systems.<\/p>\n
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In his new year message Mr Hammett said: \u201cIn the autumn, we welcomed the Prime Minister\u2019s announcement of funding for an integrated transport scheme in West Yorkshire and other projects around the country, but we must ensure light rail remains a vital element of transport policy across the UK.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs we enter what is almost certainly an election year, we must work harder than ever to push investment in sustainable transport solutions even further up the political agenda. It\u2019s vital that we double down on the message that light rail can transform urban areas by attracting inward investment, enhancing connectivity, improving air quality and reducing congestion.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver the past 12 months, UKTram has played a key role in shaping the transport debate, taking part in a series of high-profile regional, national and international forums while lobbying decision-makers and politicians from all major political parties. Building on this vital work, we will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders to help remove the barriers to the future expansion of light rail in the UK, including exploring new technology that can reduce the cost of future projects.<\/p>\n
\u201cKey to this is the expertise offered by our Centre of Excellence, which is currently working with the sponsors of proposed tramways in Stoke-on-Trent, Folkestone and the suggested Kennex system. Other UKTram functional groups are helping operators, owners and light rail engineers share best practice that has already helped networks adjust to post-pandemic changes to travel patterns while improving operational performance across the sector.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur Heritage Committee also intends to continue its work in supporting preserved tramways to capitalise on the post-pandemic trend for \u2018staycation\u2019 holidays while helping them to further reduce the risk of accidents by working more closely with the Light Rail Safety Standards Board and the Office of Rail and Road.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m sure that 2024 will present its own challenges, but whatever happens, our members can be sure that UKTram will continue to work tirelessly to promote the interests of its members, and ensuring that opportunities to build on the sector\u2019s undoubted success to date are not missed. On that note, I would also like to take this opportunity to wish all our members, suppliers and colleagues from across the sector a happy and prosperous New Year!\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The Managing Director of UKTram \u2013 the industry body who represent the interests of trams and light rail in the UK \u2013 thinks that 2024 could be a pivotal year for light rail. James Hammett has told members that it … Continue reading