European Light Rail Congress highlights development and innovation across the sector

Representatives from across the European light rail sector gathered in Tenerife on the 11th and 12th March for the European Light Rail Congress 2026, hosted by Metrotenerife and organised by Mainspring. The annual congress brought together key people from across the sector for another successful year, to exchange updates and developments, with attendees hearing 23 presentations across the two-day programme alongside a technical tour of the Metrotenerife system.

Lorraine George and Stakeholder and Innovation Manager Tim Bilby represented UKTram, with Tim delivering his well-received presentation “Light Rail Innovation and UKTram.” Tim’s session outlined recent UK developments and invited European colleagues to collaborate on new initiatives.

Several UKTram member organisations attended and contributed to the programme. The event also attracted interest from potential new members seeking closer engagement with the UK light rail community.

Image credit: Mainspring

Presentations throughout the two-day event highlighted ongoing progress across Europe, with updates on new and expanding systems in Tenerife, Kiel, Gothenburg, Malaga, and Barcelona, with many technical themes emerging across the programme.

Vibration management was highlighted by suppliers, including Getzner and Pandrol, with emphasis on the need to consider it at the design stage. The use of fibre-reinforced concrete, similar to that being utilised by the Coventry Very Light Rail system, was also explored as part of ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Innovation in safety was another key focus, with examples including red crossing LEDs at street level to warn of approaching trams, as seen in Zaragoza, and speed monitoring systems introduced in Parla.

Reflecting on the event, Tim Bilby said:

“The overwhelming message remained the growth in light rail, both in passenger journeys and in systems. It was uplifting to see so much development underway, which reinforces the global choice of light rail as a key transport solution. The event also allowed suppliers to share details of products and ideas, and there were a number of areas that will be followed up to explore.”

Alongside the formal programme, the congress offered valuable opportunities for networking and information sharing, including discussions that continued during technical sessions, in the exhibition space, and during the Metrotenerife depot visit.

Events such as the European Light Rail Congress continue to play an important role in connecting the sector, enabling collaboration and supporting the continued development of light rail across Europe and beyond.