As work on ambitious plans for a new Metro system in Cardiff and surrounding areas gathers pace, Transport for Wales is among the latest organisations to join the light rail sector’s representative body.

A train-tram system that’s set to bring the benefits of light rail to the Cardiff Bay area forms a key component of the plans, and the project team at TfW has drawn on the expertise offered by UKTram for advice on tramway design and operations.

Now it has become a full member of the organisation, joining a host of other statutory organisations and regional authorities that are helping to drive the expansion of tramways and similar transit systems across the UK.

James Hammett, UKTram Managing Director, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome TfW to our growing light rail community as we continue to expand and broaden our diverse membership base.

“As full members, they can access a host of benefits, including the opportunity to share best practice with colleagues from across the sector through our working groups, and have easy access to experts who can offer further advice and support on every aspect of light rail operations.”

Other recent new members of UKTram include rail fixing experts Sika; signalling and catenary specialists Kruch Railway Innovations; Thales Ground Transportation Systems; and consultants Mott MacDonald and TMX Consult.

James added: “UKTram continues to grow, attracting new members from all corners of the light rail, from multi-national companies and large regional authorities to smaller trade suppliers and individual consultants.

“Together, they are helping us provide a single voice for the sector while delivering a bold vision for the future that sees light rail as a green, cost-effective and sustainable solution for the transport challenges faced by urban areas across the UK and Ireland.”