Owners and Authorities group sets collaborative agenda under new leadership

The latest Owners and Authorities Group meeting took place on 15 July 2025 and marked the first session under the new leadership of Chair Chris Hopkinson and Vice-Chair Stuart Lowrie. 

The meeting brought together representatives from across the UK’s light rail networks to identify priorities and set the direction for future discussions. 

Topics tabled for future focus included procurement practices, asset renewal planning, enhanced collaboration with contractors, plus the integration of ticketing systems in light of emerging bus franchising models. 

With contributions from Blackpool, West Midlands, Edinburgh and Nottingham, the group explored current challenges and how the sector can adapt to shifting operational and financial landscapes. 

Funding, as always, remained high on the agenda, but a detailed discussion also emerged around the condition of highway road surfaces intersecting with light rail infrastructure.   Members voiced concerns around maintenance and called for greater national support to address this ongoing issue. 

Reflecting on the session, Steve Duckering, UKTram Operations Manager, said: 

‘’The last time the group met in April it was to bid a fond farewell and thanks to Danny Vaughan and Mark Davis as previous Chair/Vice Chairs of the meeting.  It was good to see the meeting reinvigorated, and members reenergised to take on the challenges that the future held.’’ 

He added that the meeting also served as a reminder of the group’s vital role in supporting best practice exchange and encouraging unity among UKTram members.