Driving Forward: Insights from UKTram’s 2024 Light Rail Summit in Birmingham

The recent UKTram Light Rail Summit, in partnership with the Light Rail Safety Standards Board (LRSSB), marked our fifth successful gathering, bringing together leaders and experts from across the light rail sector for an engaging day of discussions, insights, and presentations.

Over the years, the summit has taken place at notable venues, beginning with St Andrews Stadium in Birmingham (2018) The Grosvenor Hotel in Edinburgh (2019) and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (2022).

Last year, we moved to IET: Birmingham Austin Court and this year, we welcomed over 120 attendees for a day packed with topical debates, insightful presentations and a look at the key challenges and opportunities shaping the industry.

The Summit is an annual space for industry professionals to gather, reflect, and collaborate. We recognise the need for continual adaptation to the evolving transport landscape, and as we expand, we are already looking ahead to next year's location to accommodate our growing audience.

This year, we are deeply grateful to our members and exhibitors, including Avansim, Sika, Gibson Engineering, RS Clare & Co Ltd, Voestalpine, Knorr Bremse, ZF Services, and Mainspring. The TravelSafe team from Manchester also joined, providing engaging demos in the exhibition space. Their invaluable contributions added depth to the event and provided attendees with hands-on experiences that showcase the latest industry innovations.

Setting the scene with Stephen Edwards, UKTram Chair

The day started off with a warm welcome from our Chair, Stephen Edwards, who reminisced about his first visit to Birmingham in the 1980s.

Reflecting on the city's transformation as a bustling metropolis and now a beacon of transport innovation. Birmingham, he noted, has grown remarkably, with light rail playing a pivotal role in connecting people to work, leisure, and essential services.

Stephen also discussed on the newly appointed government's potential impact on the sector, noting that, while the administration's stance on light rail remains uncertain, UKTram is well-positioned to advocate for the undeniable social, economic, and environmental benefits that light rail brings to urban spaces.

Stephen emphasised that this shift represents a unique opportunity to enhance our engagement with government officials and the Department for Transport, positioning us as a proactive voice for light rail's future in the UK.

UKTram Update: James Hammett, UKTram Managing Director

James Hammett took to the stage to echo Stephen's sentiments and further highlight the incredible progress made in cities like Birmingham, following in the footsteps of Manchester, growing its light rail network steadily and successfully.

James shared updates on UKTram's recent work, reflecting on the "Delivering for You" theme from the previous year. He noted that the feedback from members has been overwhelmingly positive, with many calling for more of the same. James said this has been achieved increasingly, with UKTram hosting more functional groups and best practice days than ever before.

Social media has also seen impressive growth, with a 120% increase in impressions and 50% more followers on LinkedIn, helping to bring light rail into the public eye. James stressed the importance of focusing on the customer experience and making light rail an integrated part of the wider transport system.

In closing, he reiterated the importance of regularly updating UKTram's strategy and business plan to keep pace with changes in the sector. The goal remains clear: to continue stepping up the work of functional groups, strengthen ties with the government, and ensure light rail remains at the forefront of sustainable urban transport.

UKTram & Centre of Excellence Update: Colin Robey, COE Chair and Vicki Matthews

Colin Robey and Vicki Matthews gave an overview of the last twelve months' work of the Centre of Excellence (CoE), including an update on work on hot topics such as the rear bogie derailment detection, standardised groove rail section design, Independent Competent Person (ICP) and improved business planning relating to governance and procurement.

The Group has also supported Network Rail in assessing Restoring your Railway schemes with Light Rail (LR) potential, plus similar schemes outside of this programme. The CoE also submitted a response for UKTram to DfT's TWA (Transport and Works Act) survey alongside its paper seeking to simplify the process, and the Group has regular liaison meetings with DfT officers to discuss relevant issues.

The Group continues to support potential schemes, for example, Folkstone, Thames Gateway and Stoke on Trent and provided an update of the record of potential tram schemes on the Tram Tracker. In addition, the CoE has also engaged a new Design and Cost Working Group to look at the facets of the lifecycle of a scheme, including actual costs, as well as looking cross-sectionally to highlight Heavy Rail (HR) / LR integration in its Mixed Use Railway work, seeking to have one LR definition and also undertaking work through its VLR (Very Light Rail) Working Party.

A Victimless Crime: Louise Barry, Head of Customer Growth, KeolisAmey Metrolink

Louise Barry and Sarah Potts' presentation brought the topic of youth crime and antisocial behaviour on public transport into sharp focus. She introduced attendees to "A Victimless Crime," a hard-hitting virtual reality (VR) film developed by the Greater Manchester TravelSafe Partnership.

The film highlights the real-life consequences of throwing missiles at trams, buses, and trains, a crime often dismissed as harmless by those who commit it.

Louise explained how the immersive VR experience has already reached nearly 10,000 young people across Greater Manchester, showing firsthand how a moment of recklessness can have life-altering consequences.

Attendees at the Summit had the opportunity to experience the VR film for themselves, with many commenting on the powerful emotional response it evoked.

This initiative, which uses cutting-edge technology to engage young people, is a fantastic example of how the industry uses innovation to tackle real-world problems.

Inclusion Champions Male Allyship: Mark Freed, Managing Director, Men in Inclusion

Mark Freed delivered a thought-provoking session on the importance of male allyship in cultivating an inclusive workplace. Drawing on years of research, Mark shared insights into how men can actively contribute to breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive culture.

He challenged the audience to rethink the traditional approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), urging men to see themselves as integral to the conversation.

Mark referenced that embracing inclusion as a collective effort results in organisations creating an environment where everyone can thrive. His talk inspired lively discussions during the breaks and encouraged attendees to reflect on how they can be more active in driving DEI initiatives forward.

Fatigue Risk Management: Sarah Booth, Senior Manager, Baines Simmons

Sarah Booth's presentation on fatigue risk management offered attendees insight into the science of fatigue and its impact on safety. Based on her extensive aviation sector experience, Sarah explained how Fatigue Risk Management Systems (FRMS) can be effectively implemented within light rail operations.

Sarah emphasised that managing fatigue requires more than limiting working hours. It involves a comprehensive approach considering the physical, mental, and operational demands placed on staff.

Sarah's session gave attendees practical insights into how FRMS can improve safety, performance, and overall wellbeing within the sector.

Cardiff Cross Rail: Kevin Canavan, Driver Integration Manager, Transport for Wales

Kevin Canavan's presentation on the Cardiff Cross Rail project highlighted one of the most exciting developments in light rail in the UK. The project's first phase will connect Cardiff Central railway station to Cardiff Bay, delivering a new tramway that will improve connectivity and benefit the wider region.

Kevin shared the ambitious vision for Cardiff Cross Rail, which aligns with the broader South Wales Metro aspirations. His presentation outlined the scheme's key elements, including new platforms, improved public spaces, and faster, more frequent services.

The presentation showed the project's transformative potential - and how it can enhance transport links and economic growth across Cardiff.

Sustainability: Amber Hart, Head of New Business, SSG Insight

Amber Hart's presentation focused on the role of asset management software in promoting sustainability within light rail systems. Amber explained how tools like Agility CMMS can reduce admin time, improve labour utilisation and enhance response times, all while supporting the long-term sustainability of light rail networks.

Amber emphasised the importance of predictive maintenance practices and energy management software in ensuring the continued efficiency and sustainability of the sector.

Amber's insights sparked reflection on how technology can be utilised to meet the growing demand for sustainable transport solutions.

Anti-Terrorism/Light Rail Security Programme: Stuart Satchell, British Transport Police

Stuart Satchell's presentation on the anti-terrorism measures in place for light rail systems was a reminder of the threats that public transport networks face. Stuart detailed the actions taken by the British Transport Police to safeguard passengers and staff, particularly at high-risk locations like tram stops and stations.

He also highlighted the importance of vigilance and the role that everyone, from employees to passengers, plays in keeping networks and communities safe.

LRSSB Workstreams: Carl Williams, Craig O'Brien & Laura Reardon

The Light Rail Safety and Standards Board (LRSSB) team provided a comprehensive update on their workstreams, focusing on the evolution of the Tram Accident and Incident Reporting System (TAIR) and its role in driving safety improvements across the sector.

LRSSB Chief Executive Carl Williams highlighted the significant impact of enhanced accident and 'near miss' reporting in advancing safety across the UK light rail sector

Mark Ashmore, Head of Safety and Assurance, discussed digital security initiatives and the development of 'bowtie' risk assessments to enhance safety protocols further.

Head of Safety Risk Management Laura Reardon presented the Safety Risk Model and plans for a new Safety Hub, which will improve access to essential resources and tools for tramway operators.

Craig O'Brien, Head of Engineering Safety and Innovation, rounded out the presentation with an update on research initiatives, including securing funding for projects that continue to drive forward safety standards and innovation in engineering.

James Walker, Head of Digital Safety at the Office of Rail and Road

James Walker, Head of Digital Safety at the Office of Rail and Road, delivered an insightful session on the increasing importance of cybersecurity in the rail industry. Highlighting the potential safety implications of cyber threats, James explained how the ORR is working to ensure the industry is well-equipped to assess, prevent, and respond to these risks.

With the introduction of new software-based systems in rail operations, James emphasised the need for robust oversight within Safety Management Systems. He shared details on the ORR’s initiatives and the session underscored the critical role of leadership, governance, and collaboration in mitigating cybersecurity threats while maintaining rail safety standards.

Support to Rail Exports - Simon Burke, Head of Rail Partnerships & Jake Rudham, Department for Business & Trade

Simon Burke, Head of Rail Partnerships, and Jake Rudham from the Department for Business and Trade, provided invaluable insights into the global opportunities available for UK rail exports and inward investment.

They highlighted the Department's proactive approach to supporting the sector, from market prioritisation in regions like Canada, the USA and Australia, to tailored resources such as the Export Support Service and the UK Export Academy.

Their session also explored the UK’s strengths in project planning, operations, training, and innovation, which are highly valued by international clients. The presentation underscored how UK expertise continues to shape rail projects worldwide.

Closing Remarks & Quiz: James Hammett, UKTram Managing Director

James brought the day to a close with a heartfelt thank you to all the speakers and attendees. He praised the quality of the presentations and the valuable discussions throughout the day. James also emphasised the importance of continued collaboration and innovation as the sector moves forward.

The day ended on a light note with a quiz, which was won overall by Steve Mabey, with combined scores across the two quiz rounds.  

Plans are underway for the 2025 Light Rail Summit, where we aim to build on this year's success and further enrich our knowledge sharing and collaboration.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us shared insights and contributed to the day's success. To stay informed about next year's event, sign up for updates on our website (below)  – we look forward to welcoming you back for another impactful event.