What do the latest devolution reforms mean for the future of light rail?

The UK’s transport system is evolving. With the Government's Better Connected: Integrated Transport Strategy and the new Mass Transit Taskforce, recent devolution reforms are giving regional leaders more control over local transport. These changes open up new opportunities for light rail and integrated mass transit.

One important change is that regional mayors and authorities now have a bigger role in delivering transport projects. The approval limit for locally funded schemes has increased to £500 million, so more projects can move forward without needing sign-off from the Department for Transport.

These reforms could speed up projects that support economic growth, housing, and regeneration by cutting red tape and giving regions more freedom to invest in transport that fits local needs.

For the light rail sector, this shows that people increasingly see local decision-making as the best way to plan transport. As more regions look at new tram, metro, and very light rail systems, having more local control can help with long-term planning and better integration of transport options.

These reforms also mark a shift in UK transport policy, with more focus on building connected networks that make travel easier, rather than treating buses, rail and light rail as separate systems. Light rail is already important in many regions, and future projects can be planned as part of fully integrated transport strategies from the beginning.

At the same time, the Government's Mass Transit Taskforce is looking into why new mass transit projects often take a long time and cost a lot to deliver. The independent Taskforce is reviewing the economic, spatial, and social benefits of integrated mass transit, as well as challenges in governance, funding, planning, procurement, skills, and project delivery.

Its recommendations will help shape future policy and suggest practical ways to speed up new projects. We’re pleased to share that UKTram is playing an active role in this work. Managing Director James Hammett, West Midlands Metro Managing Director Sophie Allison, and Network Rail Head of Light Rail Simon Coulthard have been asked to serve as Expert Advisers to the Taskforce, making sure the sector’s experience shapes its recommendations. UKTram is also preparing a response to the Government's Call for Evidence, using insights from members, partners, and industry experts.

Such changes bring new opportunities for the sector. More local powers could speed up decisions and the Mass Transit Taskforce is working to solve long-standing problems in delivering major transport projects. With a renewed national focus on integrated transport, these changes could help create a better environment for planning and delivering future light rail schemes.

However, success will rely on ongoing teamwork, as Government, transport authorities, operators, suppliers, and industry partners must come together to share knowledge, learn and ensure future projects are delivered efficiently and sustainably. This way of working has always been important to UKTram and will stay central as the sector adapts to these changes.

The path forward is becoming clearer as regional leaders take on more responsibility for transport planning. Light rail will be important in building accessible and sustainable transport networks that support communities, economic growth and the move to lower-carbon communities. It is through working together and sharing evidence, expertise, and practical experience that the sector can help build integrated mass transit across the UK.

Have your say on the future of mass transit

UKTram is preparing its response to the Government’s Mass Transit Taskforce Call for Evidence, and we want the sector’s experience to help shape our submission.

UKTram members are invited to share evidence, examples and lessons from the planning and delivery of mass transit schemes with us by 14 August. You can also submit a response directly to the Government before the Call for Evidence closes at the end of August.

Find out more and contribute to UKTram’s response >>