Media centre

Thursday 2 Oct 2008

Manufacturers invited to build first tram-trains in the UK

Region & Route:

National

The introduction of the first tram-trains in the UK moved a step closer today as train operator Northern Rail issued an Invitation to Tender (ITT) to build and maintain the modern, lightweight vehicles.

The ITT invites responses for the manufacture and maintenance of a minimum of five tram-trains, which will operate on the 37-mile Penistone line between Sheffield, Barnsley and Huddersfield during a two-year trial.

The trial will start in late 2010, will take two years and is designed to test the suitability of the UK rail network for tram-trains. A significant amount of preparation work, including changes to the rail infrastructure and operating standards, is required before the trial can start.

In addition the trial will look at the operating costs and the popularity of the vehicles with passengers on the route.

There is also an option for a second phase to the trial, which would involve the tram-trains running from Rotherham and then joining the Sheffield Supertram system to see what additional benefits the vehicles can deliver when extended on city centre tram lines.

The project is a partnership between the Department for Transport, Northern Rail and rail infrastructure owner Network Rail.

Rail Minister Tom Harris said: “The Government is providing £9m to support the development of tram trains as they have real potential to deliver greener and faster journeys for passengers. It is encouraging to see that this ground-breaking project is making good progress.”

Heidi Mottram, Managing Director, Northern Rail said: “This is an exciting trial, and one that has the potential to deliver higher quality journeys for customers on the Penistone line and the wider network. We look forward to receiving the responses to the ITT.”

Jerry Swift, account director for community rail at Network Rail, added: “A huge amount of work is being completed by the partners as we assess the infrastructure and safety and legal requirements for the UK trial of tram train technology. The ITT is another important step in this process.”