UKTram & LRSSB Light Rail Summit 2025 brings sector together in Birmingham

More than 120 industry professionals came together in Birmingham yesterday for the sold-out UKTram & LRSSB Light Rail Summit, an annual event packed with sector insights and forward-looking discussion. 

Hosted for its third year at the Institution of Engineering and Technology’s Austin Court, our seventh summit event featured a packed agenda of topical presentations and panel discussions covering the future of light rail, social responsibility, skills, innovation and opportunities to strengthen links across the wider transport sector.

The day opened with remarks from UKTram Chair Steve Edwards, setting the tone for insightful sessions that covered social responsibility, safety innovation, future opportunities and inspiring the next generation of sector professionals. Delegates also received a sector update from James Hammett, UKTram Managing Director, who highlighted the organisation’s latest priorities and achievements.

Saffron Gurden and the StreetLink team delivered moving presentation on tackling rough sleeping on public transport and attendees gained insight into collaborative plans from Elaine Clark, Rail Forum CEO. Sam Riley of Young Rail Professionals inspired discussion around empowering the next generation of light rail leaders. 

The afternoon programme was led by the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board, where CEO Carl Williams outlined future strategy, followed by detailed updates on key workstreams and recent successes from the LRSSB team.

Other sessions included Luas operational update from Transdev Ireland and a timely technical presentation on obsolescence and a forward-looking session on climate change adaptation for light rail delivered by Rachel Harcourt from the Department for Transport.

Networking breaks, lunch and an evening reception provided valuable opportunities for delegates to share ideas and explore new opportunities for collaboration across the sector.  

The summit concluded with a light-hearted quiz, with winners taking home UKTram-branded prizes including basketball vests and shorts, bags, umbrellas and caps! Congratulations to the winners.  Reflecting on another successful year, James Hammett said:

“This year’s Summit once again demonstrated the strength of the light rail community, providing a forum for sharing best practice and opportunities along with tackling common challenges. We are grateful to all our speakers, exhibitors and delegates for making it a valuable and enjoyable day.” 

The event marked the seventh annual Summit, continuing to grow as a key fixture in the light rail calendar. A huge thank you to all our speakers, exhibitors and delegates for making this year’s Summit such a success. 

More insights from this year’s discussions will be shared on the UKTram social media channels. To stay updated on this and next year's event, sign up for our newsletter or follow UKTram on LinkedIn.