The government is set to announce details of a package of support for the light rail sector during the Covid-19 outbreak.

James Hammett, UKTram Managing Director, explained: “Whilst continuing to deliver a vital service to many key workers, light rail systems across the country have seen customer numbers plummet by as much as 95 per cent as members of the public follow the advice to avoid non-essential travel.

“Cleary this is having a significant impact on operator revenues and, with no signs yet of an end to the coronavirus restrictions, our members are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain even reduced timetables.

“From the outset of the crisis UKTram has been working closely with the Department for Transport, providing up-to-date intelligence on the sector’s response to Covid-19 while drawing the attention of Ministers to the challenges its members face.

“Due to the differing contractual obligations under which networks operate, a sector-wide package of support has been difficult to put together but UKTram is continuing to press for suitable financial support where it’s needed, and we expect an announcement from the government within days.”