UKTram’s Commitment to Members in 2026

This year, UKTram aims to deliver even greater value for its members while supporting the continued growth, performance and impact of light rail across the UK and Ireland. 2025 marked the highest levels of engagement UKTram has ever seen. Record attendance across Functional Group meetings and Best Practice Days reinforcing the importance of UKTram’s role as a trusted convenor and collective voice for the sector. 

In 2026, this collaborative approach will be strengthened further. Functional Groups and Working Groups will continue to play a central role in supporting operators as networks mature, expand and modernise, particularly as attention turns to renewal programmes, skills development, safety and operational resilience. Best Practice Days will also contribute to our activity, providing space for open shared learning and peer support. 

A key priority for the year ahead is enhancing how members access knowledge, resources and insight. Building on the success of our Request for Information (RFI) service, which continues to provide practical, peer-led support across a wide range of technical, operational and strategic topics, UKTram will launch its new Members Hub in early 2026. The Hub will bring together the RFI library, dedicated members’ news, resources and guidance in one space, creating a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration. 

UKTram is also exploring new ways to deepen member connection beyond formal meetings. Having strengthened the team with the appointment of Tim Bilby as Stakeholder & Innovation Manager, Tim’s role will enhance how UKTram engages with its growing membership, providing more dedicated time for collaboration and relationship-building across the sector.  Building on the team’s expansion last year, three new appointments reflect UKTram’s commitment to providing more structured and value-driven support to members.

 In 2026, UKTram will look to introduce opportunities for a sector-wide members volunteering or engagement day, supporting community impact while strengthening relationships across organisations and disciplines. 

Additionally, following the successful launch of Tram Talks, UKTram’s first official members’ magazine, the organisation will continue to develop this digital platform as a dedicated space for members to share insights and achievements and stay connected across the sector. The positive response to Issue 1 has highlighted an appetite for more regular, member-led content, with Tram Talks Issue 2 planned for release in early April 2026. 

Not forgetting the UKTram and LRSSB Annual Summit which continues to be a key moment in the calendar, uniting the sector to share insight and strengthen relationships. Planning is already underway for the 2026 Summit, with proposals to expand capacity at Austin Court alongside live demonstration areas and streaming options to meet growing demand. The Summit remains an important opportunity for members to connect, collaborate and help shape the future of the sector. 

Alongside this, UKTram will continue to work closely with partners including the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board, government bodies, academic institutions and international peers, ensuring members remain well supported as the sector responds to evolving expectations around safety, sustainability, skills and system performance. 

“The strength of UKTram lies in its members. The levels of engagement we’ve seen over the past year show just how valuable collaboration and shared learning are to the sector. In 2026, our focus is on building even stronger connections and providing more practical support.”  

James Hammett, Managing Director, UKTram 

With growing confidence in light rail, renewed investment signals and a strong pipeline of current and future schemes, 2026 presents opportunity. UKTram remains committed to maximising the growth, performance and benefits of the sector and to ensuring light rail is recognised as the natural choice for sustainable, connected and thriving cities. 

If you are interested in joining the UKTram member community in 2026, please visit our membership page.