UKTram joins sector leaders at Better Transport Conference 2025

Representatives from across the public transport sector gathered in Manchester on Friday 20th June for the Better Transport Week Conference 2025, part of the national campaign led by Campaign for Better Transport.

Held at Manchester Metropolitan University, the event explored how sustainable transport solutions can better connect communities, reduce inequality and support regeneration across the UK.

As a corporate champion of Campaign for Better Transport, UKTram was proud to be part of the day’s discussions and hear from thought leaders across rail, light rail and active travel.

The day began with an opening keynote from Katie Day, Deputy Chief Executive, Transport for North. Katie reflected on how transport strategy can support inclusion and tackle transport-related social exclusion, particularly across northern communities.

Drawing on TfN’s strategic transport plan and recent TRSE (Transport Related Social Exclusion) research, she called for investment that prioritises access and long-term transformation.

At 11:30, delegates had the option to explore “The Role of the Rail Network in Placemaking”, where Ian Baxter (SLC Rail) and Rob Lawson (Community Rail Network) shared insights on station-led regeneration. While the session focused on heavy rail, the principles of station-led placemaking have clear parallels in the light rail sector.

The panel session, “The Role of Trams in Connecting People and Places”, put light rail front and centre, exploring how modern tram systems can shape a cities future.

Speakers Jonathon Bray (University of Leeds), Danny Vaughan (TfGM), Richard Briggs (Mott MacDonald), Dr Guibo Sun (University of Manchester) and Michael Solomon Williams (Campaign for Better Transport) explored how tram systems support regeneration and connectivity, not just through new infrastructure, but through brave, vision-led planning.

For UKTram, these sessions reaffirmed the case for investment in new and expanded tram systems across the UK with examples of how trams are and can be embedded into unlocking modal shift and reducing reliance on cars. 

The people-first approach continued throughout the day. The closing fireside discussion (Unifying Transport Through the Integrated National Transport Strategy) between Nicole Kane (Steer), Eve Holt (Greater Manchester Combined Authority) and Megan Bradley (DfT), delved into the real experiences behind transport data: the journeys people make, how they feel and what they need.

The Better Transport Conference offered valuable insights into how transport can empower places, people and policy. UKTram remains committed to supporting modal shift and championing the unique contribution of light rail in delivering a better-connected, low-carbon future.

We look forward to sharing more reflections in our full write-up on the blog and to continuing our support for Campaign for Better Transport and Better Transport Week.