The management and replacement of embedded track assets was the key topic at a recent, well attended meeting, of light rail engineers from across the UK.

Members of the UKTram Light Rail Engineering Group also received updates from networks around the country, as well as from the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board, during their latest meeting and best practice day.

In total, 37 members of the Group attended, either in person or online, for what was an extremely productive event, held at the Manchester Metrolink depot and Transport for Greater Manchester offices and led by LREG Chairman, Ian Hale.

Phill Terry, UKTram Lead Engineer, explained: “We believe this meeting had one of the highest attendances ever, indicating that sharing information and best practice for embedded track renewals is a key concern within the sector.

“The Best Practice Day session started with an informative and thought-provoking   presentation on TfGM’s past and future challenges of embedded track renewals.

“The meeting provided an ideal opportunity for professionals to share their experience and knowledge on this important topic while addressing the challenges that are common to all maintainers, including procurement, planning, standardisation, and budgets.”

During the best practice day, presentations were also given by industry experts on condition monitoring of infrastructure assets, innovation, and embedded rail renewals with representatives from Instrumental Ltd, Volker-Rail (Laing O’Rourke – MPT Consortium), IADS Co and Voestalpine contributing.

“In conjunction with UKTram and Instrumental Ltd, a trial of instrumentation for track condition monitoring is to be fitted on a standard vehicle and volunteers are now being sought to take part,” Phil added.