As the year draws to a close, we reflect on a fantastic 2024 filled with milestones, innovation and collaboration. We've certainly been busy this year, strengthening light rail's profile globally and celebrating key achievements here in the UK. 2024 has proven light rail's pivotal role in connecting people and supporting local and sustainable economies.
Q&A with UKTram Managing Director, James Hammett
Q: What was your proudest moment in 2024?
James:Â Being invited to join the working group for the Integrated Transport Plan by the new Government. I was privileged to attend Westminster meetings and direct discussions with the new Transport Minister. To be invited before I'd even sent my pitch demonstrates the Government's recognition of light rail as essential to the UK's public transport strategy.
Q: What was the best light rail milestone in 2024?
James:Â The recovery of patronage. Networks like Manchester and the DLR recorded their highest passenger numbers, with some networks like Edinburgh and West Midlands Metro experiencing their busiest days in history. Confidence in public transport and light rail has truly returned, which is fantastic to see.
Q: Three words to describe the UKTram team's effort this year?
James:Â I can do it in one. Unwavering. Our team of five's dedication and achievements are nothing short of incredible. The value added back to the sector was estimated to be over four million pounds this last year, so a monumental effort that the team play in the industry and helping it improve.
Q: What excites you most about 2025?
James:Â The potential! With devolution, new schemes, and mass transit initiatives, we're setting the groundwork for transformative light rail projects. It's an exciting time to help areas needing improved connectivity lay the foundations for future development.
A September to Remember: Summit Success
The UKTram Light Rail Summit, held in partnership with the Light Rail Safety Standards Board (LRSSB), marked its fifth year as a standout industry event. Leaders and experts came together for a day of engaging discussions and presentations that showcased the innovation and collaboration driving the sector forward.
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. Our Business Manager, Lorraine, summed it up perfectly.
"Great success, great attendance, and positive feedback all around. The vibes were fantastic, and I'm already planning for 2025!"
Raising the Profile of UK Light Rail Internationally
This year saw UKTram take centre stage at several international events, highlighting the UK's contributions to innovation and safety in light rail. At the UITP Meeting, our Operations Manager, Steve, presented how we work with the LRSSB to enhance tramway safety.
During the Urban Tram Forum in Basel, Switzerland, our Managing Director James Hammett joined global leaders to discuss key topics, including driver aid systems, pedestrian safety, and lessons from global mega-events like the Olympics.
Such events have undoubtedly strengthened the UK's reputation as a global leader in light rail innovation, bringing valuable insights to shape the sector's future.
A Standout Trip to Cardiff
One highlight of 2024 (though there are many) was the Light Rail Operations Group (LROG) meeting in Cardiff, where we visited Transport for Wales for the first time as new members. The group were given a tour of the new Tram-Train depot in Cardiff, which provided a fascinating insight into the progress of the unique Cardiff Cross Rail project.
We're excited to support Cardiff's efforts to create a tramway that will bring long-term benefits to the broader community.
Centre of Excellence Named Team of the Year
At the Global Light Rail Awards in October, the UKTram Centre of Excellence was honoured as Team of the Year.
Their standout projects include the publication of a Route Map and Pre-Route Map for potential tramway owners, setting out clear steps for developing new systems or extensions.
The passion and commitment of the Centre of Excellence team are highly commendable, with many members dedicating their time to supporting the sector. Their efforts have been instrumental in shaping the future of light rail in the UK.
All Aboard the UKTram Board
In December, Nicola Small and Steve Mabey were appointed as non-executive directors to the UKTram board. Their extensive expertise will help drive further innovation and growth for the sector.
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Martin Fleetwood and Ian Middlemiss, who stood down after years of invaluable service. Their contributions have helped shape UKTram into the organisation it is today. We are excited to build on 2024’s achievements with a new look-board that includes the next generation of light rail leaders and comprises an equal number of male and female professionals across the sector.
The Future is Light
The future is bright for the UK's 12 tramways and light rail networks. Here's a snapshot of what's to come:
Blackpool Tramway:Â Extension to North Station and tram-train options for the Fylde Coast Line.
SPT Glasgow Subway:Â Introduction of a new fleet.
Tyne and Wear Metro:Â Expanded capacity, new fleet, and metro flow projects.
Docklands Light Railway:Â There is a new fleet and a planned extension to Thamesmead.
Manchester Metrolink:Â Tram-train options under review.
Sheffield Supertram:Â Further tram-train extensions, including Restore Your Railways initiatives, are under consideration.
West Midlands Metro:Â Continued extensions, with funding secured for Wednesbury-Brierley Hill.
London Tramlink:Â New fleet planned.
Nottingham Trams:Â East Midlands devolution opens opportunities for extensions.
Luas (Dublin):Â Preparing for a new fleet.
Stourbridge Shuttle (PreMetro):Â New fleet and potential links to Midland Metro.
Edinburgh Trams:Â Following the Newhaven opening, further extensions are being developed
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we step into the new year, UKTram's focus remains aligned with our three-year business plan:
→ Customer Experience
→ Sustainability and Environmental Impact
→ Sector Growth
→ Innovation
We aim to keep light rail at the forefront of sustainable urban transport by updating our strategies and strengthening ties with the Government and stakeholders.
Thank you to everyone who supported and collaborated with us in 2024. It really has been another incredible year. We look forward to another of progress, innovation and success in 2025.