In response to feedback from members, UK Tram is rescheduling a high-profile light rail summit that was planned for September.

An expanded event will now be held early in 2021 and cover an even wider range of topics, including the post-coronavirus challenges facing the sector.

James Hammett, Managing Director of UKTram, explained: “Clearly there are practical difficulties associated with staging a major event while there is still huge uncertainty surrounding the Covid-19 outbreak.

“We’re also acutely aware that colleagues currently have a clear focus on the challenges facing their business during the pandemic, and as the country emerges from the government’s wide-ranging restrictions.

“These continue to have a major impact on all aspects of their operations and, as a result, postponing the summit seemed the most appropriate course of action.”

By rescheduling the event in Manchester, UKTram also hopes for a more informed discussion on the long-term impact of Covid-19, including changes to customer travel patterns.

Mr Hammett added: “As well as looking at ways to rebuild and increase customer demand, a packed summit programme will also feature a wide range of topics that were originally due to be discussed in September, including safety, engineering excellence and sharing best practice.”

Further details of the rescheduled, expanded event will be published over coming weeks.