Light Rail Round-up: Summer Crowds, Safety Campaigns and Community Heroes – 21 June 2025

In this week’s light rail round-up: Nottingham celebrates local changemakers with a newly named tram, Cardiff's £100m Crossrail scheme moves forward, Edinburgh Trams reminds cyclists how to stay safe this summer. Luas prepares for concert crowds in Phoenix Park, Metrolink shares hot weather travel tips and Nexus highlights youth safety work for Rail Safety Week. Plus, the LRSSB reflects on the success of its pedestrian safety campaign.

Northern teams up with Blackpool Transport to offer combined train, tram and bus tickets

Train operator Northern is teaming up with Blackpool Transport to offer a new combined train, tram and bus ticket, offering seamless onward travel opportunities to and from Blackpool's main stations.

Rail users will soon be able to travel on Blackpool's buses and trams simply by buying an add-on alongside their train ticket on Northern's app, website, at ticket machines and from ticket offices across the Northern network.

Supertram leads the way in safety education

South Yorkshire Supertram is celebrating a standout first year as the UK’s first light rail operator to support the Rail Safe Friendly initiative.

In partnership with Learn Live, the programme reached more than 6,400 young people across 10 schools in Sheffield, each chosen for their proximity to the tramway. Through engaging videos tailored for both primary and secondary school pupils, the initiative delivered vital safety messages and encouraged a strong culture of awareness around trams.

Coventry showcases VLR during #BetterTransportWeek

As part of Better Transport Week, Coventry welcomed West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and Transport Minister Simon Lightwood to experience its Very Light Rail (VLR) project.

The city’s 220-metre demonstrator track, now offering free public rides, showcases how VLR can deliver the benefits of traditional tram systems at a fraction of the cost and time.

Led by Coventry City Council with support from WMCA and BCIMO, the scheme is fast becoming a national exemplar for low-carbon, affordable transport. The visit celebrated how innovation in light rail can help connect communities and shape a more sustainable future.

Cardiff Crossrail gets green light for £100m tram system

Cardiff Cross Rail Phase One - Image Credit The Urbanists

Plans for Cardiff’s first dedicated tram line have taken a major step forward, with phase one of the Crossrail project now confirmed to open by summer 2028. As reported by Wales Online, the scheme will see a new route linking Cardiff Central Station to Cardiff Bay, forming the foundation for a wider city-wide tram network.

Backed by £100m in funding from the UK and Welsh Governments, the project aims to tackle disconnection, support regeneration, and provide cleaner, more integrated transport options for the city.

Edinburgh Trams issues summer cycling safety reminder

As the warmer months encourage more people to cycle through the city, Edinburgh Trams is reminding cyclists to take extra care when travelling near the tramway. The operator has shared practical guidance on using dedicated cycle lanes, crossing tram tracks safely, and maintaining awareness around moving trams—particularly in busy areas like Leith and Princes Street.

Ross Bennie-Crawford, Assistant Safety Manager, emphasised the organisation’s ongoing commitment to safety, highlighting both cyclist education and driver awareness training. The reminder comes as part of wider seasonal efforts to ensure safe and respectful sharing of the city’s transport infrastructure.

Metrolink urges passengers to stay safe as temperatures rise

With Greater Manchester set for a spell of hot weather, Metrolink operator Transport for Greater Manchester is encouraging Bee Network passengers to stay cool, hydrated and travel smart. Advice includes carrying water, wearing sun protection and avoiding peak hours when services are busiest.

TfGM has also reminded passengers to use the Bee Network app for updates and consider alternative modes, like the recently expanded e-bike fleet, for short city trips. The guidance forms part of a broader commitment to customer wellbeing across the region’s integrated transport network.

Community champions celebrated on Nottingham tram

Nottingham Express Transit (NET) has unveiled its 2025 ‘community hero’ tram, honouring Dr Marcellus Baz BEM and charity Pulp Friction for their inspirational work across the city. Chosen by public nomination and a local judging panel, both were recognised for their lasting contributions to social inclusion and community empowerment.

The tram, which will bear their names for a year, shines a spotlight on grassroots impact — from supporting young people through Switch Up to promoting independence and work readiness for people with learning disabilities via Pulp Friction. It’s a moving tribute to the everyday heroes shaping Nottingham’s future.

Tyne and Wear Metro highlisghts Rail Safety Week with Youth Engagement

As part of this year’s Rail Safety Week, Nexus has shone a spotlight on the vital role of education in keeping young people safe on and around the Tyne and Wear Metro network.

Led by Youth Liaison Officer Deb, their outreach programme has reached over 10,000 young people in the last year alone, delivered through classroom talks and immersive sessions at the Safety Works centre. The aim of this work is to help shape responsible, safety-aware future passengers.

Luas advises concertgoers to plan ahead for busy weekend services

Luas is preparing for increased passenger numbers this weekend as thousands of fans travel to Phoenix Park for Zach Bryan’s three-day concert series. Customers are being urged to plan journeys in advance and allow extra time, with key stops including Museum and Broombridge expected to be especially busy.

Post-event, Heuston Luas Stop on the Red Line will be closed, with Museum Stop designated for boarding. For full travel details and Park & Ride options, customers are encouraged to check the Luas and Transport for Ireland websites.

Two Lines = STOP’ Campaign gains traction across light rail networks

To mark Rail Safety Week, the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board has reflected on the success of its national pedestrian safety campaign: ‘Two Lines = STOP’, launched during the same week in 2024.

Now adopted by tram networks in Blackpool, Edinburgh, Manchester, Sheffield and the West Midlands, the campaign uses bold signage and eye-catching graphics to raise awareness of the risks near tram tracks. With early survey results showing positive impact, LRSSB is preparing to relaunch the initiative with fresh materials in Blackpool and Edinburgh.

Dudley MP learns about Dasher

Pre Metro Chairman, Steve Jasper, and MD, Phil Evans, were delighted to welcome Dudley MP, Sonia Kumar, to Stourbridge on Friday, 30th May, to learn more about the plans for the Dudley Dasher.

Proposals are in development to link Stourbridge to Dudley via existing freight lines and Metro lines (in development) to provide a new, affordable, very light rail link between Stourbridge and Dudley.  In line with repeated calls from local employers, this would provide efficient rail-based public transport links into this highly congested area, still overly dependent on cars.

Crich celebrates #VolunteersWeek with inspiring stories

Crich Tramway Village shone a spotlight on the incredible individuals who help bring the museum to life. A series of LinkedIn posts highlighted the diverse roles and stories of their volunteer community, from tram conductors to event supporters, showcasing the vital contributions behind the scenes and on the tracks.

With over 100,000 annual visitors, the museum relies on its dedicated volunteers and is now inviting new recruits to join the team. Crich offers flexible roles, training and even low-cost accommodation, proving there’s a place for everyone to get involved in preserving tramway heritage.

Volk’s Electric Railway brings new sights and celebrations for 2025

Volk’s Electric Railway is now open for the summer season, with daily services running until 30 September (weather permitting). This year, passengers can enjoy new sights along the route, including the Sea Lanes bathing pool, an extended café near Halfway Station and a refreshed terminus at Black Rock. Evening services are set to return on select dates, operated by VERA members, and a special weekend of events is planned for 20–21 September to mark the 30th anniversary of the Volk’s Electric Railway Association, including behind-the-scenes tours, illuminated cars, and family-friendly entertainment. 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 chelsea.branch@uktram.co.uk by Thursday 26th June, 12PM.