In this week’s light rail news – new fare zones for Metro, extra trams for 6 Nations Rugby in Edinburgh, later journeys to run on NET, Luas issues safe cycling reminder and TAUT features LRSSB risk management framework.

With government funding for new and existing transport systems, and the publication of a bold strategy for the future of light rail in the UK, 2022 could prove to be a seminal year for the sector.

Growing calls for further action to tackle climate change and the emergence of innovative new technology will also boost the case for a mode of transport that has already proved its value to key cities across the UK.

In 2022, UKTram will remain at the forefront of what promises to be a landmark year for the sector, and Managing Director James Hammett, believes the organisation is well placed to lead light rail into a new era.

While Covid-19 has continues to have an impact, he also says there is a sense of growing optimism for the future of the sector and you can read more here.

In other light rail news:

West Midlands Metro

West Midlands Metro has announced plans to introduce a new, zone-based approach to their fares, providing greater fairness and flexibility for the thousands of people who rely on the network every day.

Sophie Allison, Metro Commercial Director explained that the operator is constantly looking at ways to make it easier to travel on the Metro, while providing the best possible value to customers who say they want more flexibility – especially as travel habits and lifestyles have changed since the coronavirus pandemic.

The easy-to-understand Metro Ticket Zones will see the network divided in to four, with customers only paying to travel in the areas of the network they actually need to use and more details can be found here.

Edinburgh Trams

Scotland will face England for the Six Nations Calcutta Cup at BT Murrayfield Stadium on Saturday, February 5, and fans are being encouraged to buy their tram tickets before they travel to the game.

With services boosted to run from every 3 minutes before and after the match, Edinburgh Trams aims to make traveling to and from the Stadium as convenient as possible. A range of special tickets are also available, and you can find full details here.

NET

The network’s Sunday service frequency, which has been in place through the week since the Christmas holiday, has seen the introduction of additional late-night trams.

From Monday (17th January) NET has run the additional last trams in order to provide more services to customers and you can read more here.

Tyne & Wear Metro

Nexus, the Tyne and Wear Metro operator, has announced a major new arts commission for the busy system’s £362m new train fleet.

The commission, grant-funded by Arts Council England will see artists selected to create large-scale new works for the interiors of 46 new trains, due to enter service from next year.

Nexus has launched an open call for established artists to put themselves forward for the opportunity. A final four will be selected to create permanent works which will be displayed on each new train’s end walls, facing into the seating areas. The full story can be found here.

Luas

The operator of the Dublin network has issued a fresh reminder to cyclists to always be vigilant and aware when cycling around Luas.

The advice was issued as many people fulfil New Year resolutions to get more exercise and fresh air, and cycle instead of taking the car or public transport.

It is urging all cyclists – both newcomers and more experienced bike riders – to Stay Safe and Be Luas Aware and you can read more here.

LRSSB

An ambitious project to create a fully integrated risk management framework for light rail has been put under the spotlight in a leading trade publication.

Developed by the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board, the framework incorporates a series of interconnected projects and is already making a significant contribution to safety across the sector.

The feature in the most recent issue of Tramways and Urban Transit is now available to view online here and provides a comprehensive account of the LRSSB’s work to date on an initiative that encompasses all aspects of incident reporting, risk modelling and the development of best practice.

Written by Carl Williams, Chief Executive of the LRSSB, it also outlines how the project draws on the experience of safety professionals and is supported by specialist consultants and external agencies, including the Office of Rail and Road (ORR).

To be included in the next round-up, or the Members News section of the website, send your press releases to jamie.swift@uktram.org.