Better Transport Conference 2025 - Putting People at the Heart of Transport Strategy

Representatives from across the public transport sector gathered in Manchester on Friday 20th June for the Better Transport Conference, part of the national Better Transport Week campaign led by Campaign for Better Transport. 

Held at Manchester Metropolitan University, the event explored how sustainable transport solutions can better connect communities, reduce inequality and support regeneration across the UK.  

As a Corporate Champion of Campaign for Better Transport, UKTram was proud to be part of the day’s discussions and hear from thought leaders across rail, light rail and active travel.  During this year's conference, the message was clear: better transport transforms lives and it all starts with people. 

Starting off the day, Katie Day, Deputy Chief Executive at Transport for the North, delivered a powerful keynote that framed transport as a fundamental driver of social and economic outcomes. Drawing on TfN’s Strategic Transport Plan and research into Transport-Related Social Exclusion, she made a compelling case for long-term investment that places access, opportunity and wellbeing at its core. “People, people, people,” was Katie’s message along with how an effective transport strategy must reflect the diverse needs of the communities they serve. 

Katie challenged us to rethink how we deliver transport, not in isolation, but in its social context. For UKTram, this reinforces the importance of light rail systems in creating joined-up, inclusive networks. As towns and cities grow, tramways offer an accessible, low-emission option for tackling disconnection and supporting community resilience. 

This people-first approach continued throughout the day. The closing fireside discussion explored the real experiences behind transport data, the journeys people make, how they feel and what they need.

Megan Bradley from the Department for Transport outlined the importance of a human-centred strategy, noting that extensive public engagement. With over 6,000 responses to their recent call for ideas, respondents placed safety firmly among the sector’s leading priorities. 

Eve Holt, representing the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, welcomed the direction advising the need to make it about people and integrated transport and reflected on the shift toward a more inclusive and connected approach to future transport planning. 

Discussions also explored how the language used in transport strategy influences public understanding. As Eve pointed out, a common and accessible vocabulary is needed, one that resonates with passengers, not just policy makers. 

During the afternoon, delegates had the option to explore “The Role of the Rail Network in Placemaking”, where Ian Baxter (SLC Rail) and Rob Lawson (Community Rail Network) shared insights on station-led regeneration. While the session focused on heavy rail, the principles of station-led placemaking have clear parallels in the light rail sector.

For us, this session underlined the role of tram stops as civic anchors. Stops have the potential to drive local development, encourage sustainable housing and support more equitable growth. The right stop, in the right place, delivered with the community in mind, can be a catalyst for change. 

Looking ahead, the panel agreed that cultural change remains one of the biggest challenges. Megan emphasised the need to rethink transport decisions through a people-first lens. Nicola Kane from Steer added that alongside cultural change, funding remains a key enabler.  

The panel session, “The Role of Trams in Connecting People and Places”, put light rail front and centre, exploring how modern tram systems can shape a city's future.  

Speakers Jonathon Bray (University of Leeds), Danny Vaughan (TfGM), Richard Briggs (Mott MacDonald), Dr Guibo Sun (University of Manchester) and Michael Solomon Williams (Campaign for Better Transport) explored how tram systems support regeneration and connectivity, not just through new infrastructure, but through brave, vision-led planning.  Michael Solomon Williams, Head of Campaigns at Campaign for Better Transport, referenced their Time for Trams campaign, a national push to promote the benefits of modern tram systems. The initiative focuses on long-term value and inclusive mobility and the campaign aligns closely with the wider conversations around vision-led transport planning and social value.

Michael highlighted the transformation of St Peter’s Square as an example of infrastructure creating a whole new experience, feel and look of a place. 

“It’s not just 1km of track,” Danny Vaughn of TfGM added, “it’s the outcomes for the region and the people.” 

Richard Briggs from Mott MacDonald echoed this, outlining how expertise, standardisation and strong regional objectives can make tram schemes more affordable and deliverable. Richard discussed the various phases in schemes, considering whole-life costs and the need for devolved powers.   

The session reaffirmed the case for investment in new and expanded tram systems across the UK, with examples of how trams are being embedded into long-term city visioning, unlocking modal shift and reducing reliance on cars.  

As proud Corporate Champions of Campaign for Better Transport, UKTram was delighted to support and witness such a passionate, people-focused campaign unfold.  

Huge thanks to Campaign for Better Transport for their energy and advocacy throughout the week. It really has been a a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we connect people through purpose-led and people-first transport planning.