Tickets are now available for the UKTram & Light Rail Safety & Standards Board Light Rail Summit 2026, taking place in Birmingham on Wednesday, 16thSeptember. This year’s theme, Smarter Systems, Stronger Networks, will bring together industry leaders, operators, suppliers and policymakers to explore the future of light rail and the role it continues to play within sustainable, integrated transport systems.

Last week, UKTram representatives participated in two industry events, contributing to discussions on the future of light rail and integrated transport networks in the UK. Both events highlighted the growing momentum in the light rail sector and offered valuable opportunities to engage with organisations involved in infrastructure, engineering, operations, innovation, and regional transport development.

In this week's UK and Ireland Tram and Light Rail Round-up: NET strengthens operational and safety leadership with new appointment, next phase of Manchester Metrolink infrastructure investment set to begin and Blackpool Tramway introduces timetable changes to improve punctuality. Plus, Edinburgh Trams partners with charity to introduce onboard emergency bandage kits, Keolis calls for ‘Great British Light Rail’ approach to urban transport and emergency services training exerci

A group of tram and railway enthusiasts from North America recently visited Blackpool as part of a wider tour exploring light rail and heritage tramway systems across the British Isles. Organised with support from UKTram Heritage Tramway Committee Vice Chair Ian Longworth, the visit formed part of a wider programme coordinated for members of the Electric Railroad Association, with visitors travelling from across the United States and Canada.

Held at UKTram’s offices on Summer Lane, the two-day session provided an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s growth, revise the mission statement and explore how UKTram can continue to respond to the evolving needs of the sector.

In this weeks light rail round-up for the British Isles: Smarter Travel Student Awards 2026 Winners Announced by Transport for Ireland, Ambitious plans for heritage trams remain on track and Edinburgh Trams highlights May events across the capital. Plus, NET to carry out week-long tram maintenance works, Supertram's time-saving Optibus system comes to South Yorkshire, contactless travel use grows on Glasgow Subway and Tyne and Wear Metro names new maintenance vehicle ‘Ariana

Renewed funding from the Department for Transport will enable two organisations at the heart of the UK’s light rail sector to continue their vital work. The Light Rail Safety and Standards Board and UKTram have both welcomed an agreement that will see them share a total of £4.5 million over the next three years.

UKTram is pleased to welcome Telent as a new member, strengthening the organisation’s growing community.

UKTram is pleased to announce that tickets for the UKTram & LRSSB Light Rail Summit 2026 will be released on the 5th of May, ahead of the sector’s annual gathering taking place on Wednesday 16th September.

Countdown to UK Rail 2026: UKTram set to join sector at NEC Birmingham

In the UK and Ireland, Light Rail Round-up this week: West Midlands Metro Eastside extension opens to Millennium Point and seeks public input on new route naming, Supertram upgrades to continue with Bank Holiday engineering works, Manchester Marathon drives record-breaking day for Metrolink, and rare pre-opening Tyne and Wear Metro tickets discovered by a collector. UK Light Rail Conference 2026 programme launched for milestone 20th year, Heritage Tramways Committee focuses o

UKTram has announced new leadership for its Light Rail Operations Committee (LROC), following the recent decision by Steve Mabey to step down from his role as Chair.

UKTram is pleased to announce the digital publication of Tram Talks, its members’ magazine, providing a dedicated space for insight and shared learning across the light rail sector.

Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life is recruiting a Tramway & Historic Engineering Technician to support the operation and maintenance of its heritage tramway and engineering exhibits. The permanent, full-time role offers a unique opportunity to work at the heart of one of Scotland’s leading industrial heritage sites.

KeolisAmey Metrolink is recruiting a Tram Engineering Manager to support fleet performance and engineering delivery across the network. The role will focus on leading teams, overseeing asset management and ensuring compliance with safety and engineering standards.

Held at UKTram’s offices, representatives from across the heritage tramway community met online and in person to share recent updates and explore opportunities to strengthen engagement with visitors. It was acknowledged that this was the 40th meeting of the group which has been running for over ten years.

UKTram representatives recently visited UKTram member Voestalpine Turnout Technology UK Ltd in Harworth to gain insight into the latest developments in switch and crossing (S&C) technology and quality assurance processes.

Supertram is recruiting a Network Manager to join its Operations Control Centre, supporting the delivery of safe, reliable and customer-focused services across the network. The permanent role is based in Sheffield and offers an opportunity to play a key part in day-to-day operations.

Marking World Public Transport Day, this week’s round-up highlights the vital role light rail continues to play in keeping communities connected and people moving. Across the UK and Ireland, networks are supporting events, progressing investment and building on resilience, underlining the impact of public transport in everyday life.

A range of overhead line maintenance roles are now available on the Tyne and Wear Metro, as Nexus strengthens its incident response capability and supports ongoing investment in network resilience. Eleven vacancies are currently open, with applications closing on 30th April.