Light Rail Round-up: Tracks, Tributes and Trams - 11th July 2025

This week’s round-up includes updates on the return of Blackpool’s iconic heritage trams, the latest safety campaign rolled out across the Nottingham network and Liam Gallagher lending his voice to Manchester’s Bee Network for Oasis’ long-awaited comeback shows. Plus, new funding secures a future-proof signalling system for the Tyne and Wear Metro, family-friendly travel schemes, seasonal events and operator insight from Transdev Ireland all signal a strong summer for light rail.

Government backs new signalling upgrade for Tyne and Wear Metro

The Department for Transport has confirmed funding for a vital upgrade to the Tyne and Wear Metro’s signalling system, replacing infrastructure that has been in place since the 1970s. The investment will improve journey times, safety and reliability, while enabling future route expansion.

Nexus Managing Director Cathy Massarella welcomed the news, calling the upgrade “critical for Metro’s future and the wider region.” The new digital system is expected to modernise operations and support the Mayor’s vision for a world-class integrated transport network.

Tram tribute marks final performances for Torvill & Dean in Nottingham

As Olympic legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean return to Nottingham for their final performances, the city has honoured their legacy with a fresh tribute from Nottingham Express Transit. Tram 201, named after the duo over a decade ago, now features updated gold signage to celebrate 50 years since their partnership began.

After unveiling the tram, the pair travelled to the National Ice Centre, where an ice rink has now been renamed in their honour. The gesture marks both their farewell tour and the NIC’s 25th anniversary, celebrating Nottingham’s role in shaping their extraordinary careers. NET joins local institutions in recognising their legacy, with tram naming a lasting reminder of their golden achievements.

Heritage trams set for autumn return in Blackpool

Blackpool’s beloved heritage trams are on track to return to the promenade this October, as Blackpool Transport begins preparations to bring them back into service. Independent inspections of the fleet will soon determine how many vehicles can be reintroduced, with work also underway to upgrade safety systems and train staff. Track cleaning and inspections outside Rigby Road depot are scheduled ahead of the move to Starr Gate. The aim is to have trams running in time for the Lightpool Festival, preserving a proud tradition for residents and visitors alike. Updates will follow as key milestones in the reintroduction plan are reached. Liam Gallagher voices Bee Network announcements ahead of Oasis gigs

Fans heading to Oasis’ long-awaited Heaton Park comeback are in for a treat, as Liam Gallagher lends his voice to tram stop announcements at Heaton Park. Transport for Greater Manchester will play four unique messages recorded by the frontman across the gig dates, adding to the city’s celebration of this iconic homecoming. The initiative is part of a wider campaign encouraging gig-goers to ‘go electric’ and use public transport, supported by extra trams, shuttle buses and 24/7 control room coordination. It follows previous collaborations between Liam and the Bee Network, as well as special Oasis-themed vehicle wraps launched in June. Passengers are advised to plan ahead and stay hydrated as temperatures are expected to rise over the weekend.

New byelaw bans vaping on Tyne and Wear Metro

From 1 July 2025, vaping and the use of e-cigarettes have been officially banned across the Tyne and Wear Metro network under a new byelaw introduced by Nexus. The move follows consistent passenger feedback and aligns vaping rules with Metro’s long-standing smoking ban. Anyone caught vaping on Metro property, including trains and stations, now faces prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000. Nexus says the change supports a more pleasant passenger experience and reinforces customer expectations. The byelaw was formally approved following a statutory consultation process and has now been ratified by the Department for Transport.

Kids Go Free on Glasgow Subway this summer

SPT has relaunched its popular Kids Go Free initiative, allowing all children under 16 to travel free on the Glasgow Subway from June 26 to August 19, 2025. Adult all-day travel is priced at just £3.20 with a Smartcard, offering an affordable way for families to explore the city. The Subway’s 15 stations connect Glasgow’s cultural hotspots, making summer adventures accessible and enjoyable. SPT is also encouraging families to try its themed Subway Explorers Trails, including art, science, museum and active day-out suggestions. West Midlands Metro gears up for a fun-filled summer in Birmingham

With the school holidays fast approaching, West Midlands Metro is encouraging families to make the most of the season with easy access to Birmingham’s packed summer events calendar. Events and attractions include the Bulls in the City arts trail, the Birmingham Restaurant Festival, the SEA LIFE Centre and Thinktank.

Trams will run every eight minutes into the city centre, with great value family tickets and park & ride options available. As a proud sponsor of Bulls in the City, Metro will even feature its own uniquely decorated bull sculpture, complete with a QR code competition offering exclusive rewards and a chance to win a month of free travel. Transdev Ireland highlights operational excellence and modal shift in new feature

A new article published by Transdev Ireland on LinkedIn highlights the operator’s pivotal role in shaping Dublin’s evolving transport landscape, focusing on day-to-day reliability, integration, and support for a long-term modal shift.

Reflecting on over two decades of operating and maintaining the Luas light rail system, Transdev emphasises that real success lies not only in infrastructure expansion but in the consistent delivery of safe, clean and efficient service. Over 54 million Luas journeys were made in 2024, and this daily performance, the article argues, is the foundation for public trust in sustainable transport.

Coventry’s Very Light Rail demonstrator completes public showcase

Coventry’s Very Light Rail system has completed its public showcase, with over 3,000 people riding the new vehicle on a 220-metre track laid in eight weeks. The battery-powered system, designed and built locally, features innovative track technology that reduces installation time and cost.

Construction planning is now underway for the next phase, which will involve laying an 800-metre section between Coventry railway station and the University Technology Park on Puma Way. Scheduled to begin in 2026, the route will demonstrate how the vehicle operates within a live traffic environment.

NET joins LRSSB national tram safety campaign aimed at pedestrians

As Nottingham gears up for one of its busiest times of the year, NET has joined the LRSSB’s national tram safety campaign, rolling out eye-catching “Two Lines = STOP” signage across its network. The initiative, already adopted in other major UK cities, aims to reduce tram-pedestrian incidents by encouraging people to stay alert near tracks.

With thousands expected to visit the city’s summer beach in Old Market Square, the campaign is being supported by social media messaging to help promote safe travel during the seasonal festivities. UKTram proud to support Global Light Rail Awards 2025

UKTram is once again a proud sponsor of the Global Light Rail Awards, an annual event dedicated to recognising excellence and innovation in the light and urban rail sector. Celebrating world-class projects and the people behind them, the awards highlight achievements that continue to drive the sector forward. With over 150 entries submitted from 12 countries in 2024, the event continues to showcase the global impact of light rail. UKTram’s support reflects its ongoing commitment to promoting sector-wide collaboration. 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 17th July, 12PM.