Light Rail Round-up: Simulators in Focus, West Midlands Award Wins, Luas Engagement and 25 Years of London Trams – 16 May 2025
- UKTram
- 3 hours ago
- 5 min read
In this week’s news from the light rail sector – West Midlands Metro celebrates a trio of award wins in Dudley, Luas connects with passengers through its latest ‘Meet the Manager’ event, LRSSB spotlights simulator innovation in its latest podcast, plus, 25 years of London Trams.
Blackpool’s Heritage Trams set to return for Lightpool Festival
Blackpool’s iconic heritage trams are set to return to the promenade this October, following a temporary pause in service announced last December. Operating alongside the modern fleet had presented growing operational challenges, but a new plan agreed between Blackpool Council and Blackpool Transport Services will see modifications made at the Starr Gate depot to accommodate both fleets.
The much-loved illuminated trams, including the Western Train, Frigate and Balloon Tram, will resume tours during the Lightpool Festival (15 October – 1 November), with further services planned during the Illuminations season.
Edinburgh Trams renews community partnership with Edinburgh Rugby
Edinburgh Trams has formalised its long-standing relationship with Edinburgh Rugby by becoming an official Community Partner for the 2024 season. The partnership celebrates a connection that dates back to the network’s launch in 2014, with trams providing a convenient, low-carbon link to Murrayfield and Hive Stadiums.
As part of the partnership, Edinburgh Trams is also proudly sponsoring Fly-half Ross Thompson, who recently returned to his home team. With regular services and easy park & ride access, the tram continues to offer fans a smooth ride to match day.
London Trams celebrates 25 years of modern service
Transport for London is marking 25 years of modern London Trams, recognising the network’s role in connecting communities and supporting sustainable travel across south London.
Carrying over 17 million passengers a year, the fully electric, step-free network continues to set standards for accessibility and low-carbon transport. To celebrate, TfL has launched a customer competition and a special 25th anniversary poster campaign, with plans underway to further modernise the fleet.
Supertram renewal works in Hillsborough scheduled
Essential renewal works on Langsett Road in Hillsborough will take place from Saturday 24 to Friday 30 May, with replacement bus services running between Cathedral and Malin Bridge/Middlewood during this time.
Part of a wider programme of Supertram infrastructure improvements, the works also include road resurfacing and junction remodelling, coordinated with Sheffield City Council to minimise future disruption. Services are expected to resume on Saturday 31 May, as investment continues to support the long-term reliability of the network.
Essential overhead line renewal works will take place on the Tyne and Wear MetroÂ
On 9pm on Sunday 18 May, essential overheard line renewal works will take place, affecting both lines south of South Gosforth. To safely replace key equipment in the tunnel between Monument and Haymarket, services will be suspended between South Gosforth and South Shields/South Hylton, with replacement buses running in both directions from Regent Centre.
Nexus has scheduled the work for a Sunday evening to minimise disruption, and services are expected to resume as normal on Monday.
West Midlands Metro celebrates triple win at local awards
West Midlands Metro has been recognised with three awards at the Dudley College and Black Country Skills Shop Adult Awards, including the prestigious title of Outstanding Employer of the Year. The event also honoured two team members: Becky Holmes, who received the Resilience Award and Myriam Fiamavle, winner of the Learning to Earning Award.
The recognition highlights Metro’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and community partnerships, particularly as the network prepares to expand into Dudley.
Luas hosts customer engagement event on the Green Line
This week, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Transdev Dublin Light Rail held a ‘Meet the Luas Manager’ session on the Green Line, giving customers the chance to share feedback directly with the team.
Taking place on Wednesday 14 May, the initiative forms part of an ongoing series designed to improve the passenger experience through regular, face-to-face engagement. Customers who missed the event can still provide input via an online survey, with more opportunities to connect planned throughout the year.
Heaton Park Tramway Museum to open monthly through Summer
British Trams Online reports that while major substation repairs continue at Heaton Park Tramway, the tramway museum and shop will open once a month until September 2025. Located in the former Middleton Road shelter, the museum will be open on the last Sunday of each month, starting 25 May, with recently refreshed displays on show.
Although tram services remain suspended, the monthly museum openings offer visitors a chance to explore the tramway’s heritage while work continues in partnership with Manchester City Council.
New LRSSB podcast explores the power of tram simulators
A new podcast from the Light Rail Safety Standards Board (LRSSB) delves into the growing role of tram simulators in enhancing safety and training across the sector.
Hosted by Chief Executive Carl Williams, the episode features Ian Rowe of Avansim, who shares insights on how modern desktop simulators support driver training, recreate real-world hazards and are even helping simulate control room environments.
Recorded at Avansim’s Milton Keynes HQ, the discussion also covers the rise of AI in simulations and how this technology is shaping new industry standards.
UKTram Member News
Leadership transition at Pre Metro Operations
UKTram Member, Pre Metro Operations Ltd has announced a key leadership change, with long-standing Chair Geoff Lusher stepping down after 12 years of dedicated service. Geoff has guided the organisation through landmark moments including the launch and success of the Stourbridge Shuttle, which has now carried over 7.5 million passengers.
Fellow Director Steve Jasper has now been appointed Chair, bringing deep experience and a strong local perspective to the role. The board has welcomed the smooth transition and is pleased Geoff will remain on the board, continuing to share his expertise as the company looks to future opportunities in the West Midlands and beyond.
BCIMO hosts family day celebrating 200 years of rail
This weekend, BCIMOÂ will open its doors for a Family Day of discovery, fun, and innovation, as part of the national Railway 200Â celebrations. Taking place on Saturday 17 May, the event will bring together rail heritage, light rail technology, and hands-on experiences; including rides aboard the Coventry Very Light Rail (CVLR)Â vehicle, a chance to explore the donated Midland Metro T69 tram and a tram driver simulator experience.
The day will host activities for all ages, along with food, entertainment and support for five charities.
UKTram Members recognised at Women in Rail Awards 2025
Several UKTram members were honoured at this year’s Women in Rail Awards for their outstanding contributions to diversity, inclusion and social impact. Network Rail’s Inspire Group won Best Network Group for its work supporting gender equity, while Metrolink’s Annabelle Pryce was recognised as EDI Individual of the Year for her advocacy and mentoring. Siemens Mobility also received the Social Value Award for its wide-ranging community and inclusion initiatives.
Congratulations to all those recognised for driving positive change across the sector.
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 22nd May, 12PM.