UKTram Centre of Excellence explores stronger links with BSI and sector collaboration

The latest meeting of the UKTram Centre of Excellence has highlighted the importance of closer collaboration with the British Standards Institution (BSI) to ensure the light rail and urban transit sectors remain well represented in the development of industry standards.

Representatives from BSI included Sarah O’Neil-Shaw, Philippa Younas and Aymee Siddons. The team provided an overview of standardisation processes, technical committees, opportunities for greater engagement and the importance of consensus and confidentiality.

The presentation clarified how BSI coordinates national and international standards work and emphasised the value of participation and the contribution of expert representatives. Members discussed the need to encourage wider involvement from across the light rail community, particularly from younger professionals and those with expertise in areas such as vehicle systems, infrastructure and operational safety.

During the meeting, members also reviewed recent activity across the sector, including updates from Network Rail, which continues to support mixed-use and light rail integration projects despite internal restructuring.

It was celebrated that the Mixed-Use Railway Team had been shortlisted for Team of the Year at the Global Light Rail Awards, with thanks expressed to everyone involved in the group’s ongoing work. Since then, the team has gone on to win the award, recognising their collaborative efforts to strengthen the relationship between light and heavy rail and drive forward innovation across mixed-use networks.

The group also heard about ongoing work on standards such as GEN 8502 and new tram-train platform guidance being developed in collaboration with the RSSB.

The Centre also reflected on the success of recent events, including the Mainspring Light Rail Conference and discussed plans for the apprenticeship and secondment programme, which aims to strengthen workforce development across the industry.

The next Centre of Excellence meeting will take place in November. To sign up for updates, please use the sign-up form below.