Light Rail Round-up: Edinburgh’s Tap & Go Launch, Coventry VLR Progress & more [09 May 2025]
- UKTram
- May 9
- 4 min read
In this week’s news from the light rail sector – Edinburgh Trams confirms launch for new ‘Tap on, Tap off’ system, essential engineering works get underway on the Bury line in Manchester, Coventry’s VLR project reaches another key milestone, new play set on the Tyne & Wear Metro and Luas highlights anti-social behaviour reporting tools.
Edinburgh Trams announces 'Tap on, Tap off' launch date
From Monday 19 May 2025, customers will be able to use a new ‘Tap on, Tap off’ contactless payment system across Edinburgh Trams, fully integrated with Lothian Buses’ existing fare-capping model.
Designed to ensure the best value fare for passengers, the system calculates the cheapest daily and weekly rates for travel within the city zone. The launch follows months of collaboration with Lothian Buses and Flowbird, and marks a major step forward in integrated, low-carbon public transport across Edinburgh.
Engineering work to repair Victorian-era tunnel to start this weekend in Manchester
Transport for Greater Manchester has announced a series of service changes on the Bury Metrolink line throughout May, as essential engineering work gets underway to repair the Whitefield Tunnel, which dates back to the 19th century.
Beam replacements and overhead line protection will see weekend closures between Crumpsall and Bury and Whitefield and Bury, with replacement buses and accepted ticketing in place. TfGM’s Ian Davies confirmed that the work is vital to ensure long-term safety for services running through the historic tunnel.
Luas highlights real-time reporting tools to tackle Anti-Social Behaviour
Luas has issued a renewed call for passengers to make use of its discreet reporting options when witnessing anti-social behaviour on the network.
While most journeys are calm and respectful, Luas staff and security teams work closely with Gardaí to address occasional incidents that may cause concern for passengers. To support this, customers are reminded they can report issues in real-time via the Luas App, WhatsApp or by text. These tools help ensure a swift response while allowing passengers to stay discreet.
Nottingham Tram Driver hits the right note on National TV
Viewers of The Piano may have spotted a familiar face this week as Nottingham Trams’ very own Tram Driver, Reuben, took to the keys and wowed audiences with a briliant performance.
Reuben’s musical talent shone on national television, and the team couldn’t be prouder. A great reminder of the creative talents across our sector – both on and off the tracks!
Tyne and Wear Metro provides the backdrop for new stage play
The Tyne and Wear Metro is the setting for Dogs on the Metro, a new stage play now showing at Live Theatre Newcastle until 17 May.
The powerful production, which explores friendship, memory and the everyday rhythms of Metro travel, features an authentic train carriage set, complete with real Metro handrails, recorded announcements and platform signage.
Supported by Nexus, the play highlights how the Metro is deeply woven into the social fabric of life in the North East.
CVLR track trial marks another milestone
Coventry City Council has officially launched a ground-breaking on-road trial of its Very Light Rail modular track system, laying 220 metres of single track in the city centre.
Installed without road closures or major utility diversions, the trial marks a huge step forward in demonstrating the system’s real-world viability. With full track construction now complete, the next phase will see the CVLR vehicle begin trial runs this summer.
West Midlands Metro Supports Railway 200 Family Fun Day
West Midlands Metro has been confirmed as a gold sponsor for a major family fun day at the Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre in Dudley, celebrating 200 years of railway history.
Taking place on Saturday 17 May, the event forms part of the national Railway 200 campaign and will feature interactive exhibits, rides through the historic Dudley Railway Tunnel and a look at a Tram 16, donated by UKTram and now serving as a test bed for new technologies. The day will also raise funds for several charities and will be officially opened by Pete Waterman OBE.
Stourbridge Shuttle celebrates half a million passengers
Pre Metro has celebrated a milestone, announcing that over 500,000 passengers travelled on the Stourbridge Shuttle during the 2024/25 railway year.
The figure represents a significant bounce-back from pandemic-era lows and highlights the Shuttle’s continued importance to commuters, students and shoppers travelling between Stourbridge Town and Junction.
With 99% reliability and low operating costs, the success also adds momentum to proposals for the Dudley Dasher light rail extension, aimed at connecting more communities across the region.
Dan Hill Appointed Knowledge Manager at UKTram
We’re delighted to announce the promotion of Dan Hill to Knowledge Manager at UKTram. Since joining the organisation in 2016, Dan has played a key role across a range of technical and operational areas.
In his new role, he’ll lead on the development of a sector-wide knowledge base and RFI archive to support members with accessible, practical insight. Congratulations, Dan – a well-deserved step forward!
To be included in the next Round-up or the Members News section of the UKTram website, please send your press releases, event updates and career opportunities to news@uktram.org by Thursday 15th May, 12PM.
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