UKTram shares light rail expertise at national asset management conference

UKTram contributed to national discussions on the future of public transport infrastructure following its speaking engagement at Public Transport Asset Management UK 2026, hosted by Global Mass Transit in London.

Held at Park Plaza London Riverbank on the 23rd of June, the conference explored how organisations are responding to ageing infrastructure, digital transformation and the changing demands placed on transport networks.

Representing UKTram, Managing Director James Hammett delivered a presentation titled "Scaling Digital Asset Management Across Multi-Modal Networks – A Light Rail and Tramway Perspective," discussing how the light rail sector can contribute to wider conversations on digital asset management and integrated transport.

The presentation explored the opportunities and challenges of scaling digital asset management across transport networks, including the importance of data standardisation and moving beyond individual asset management towards a more integrated, system-wide approach.

Drawing on examples from across the light rail sector, James also highlighted the unique role tramways play at the intersection of highways, railways, utilities and urban transport, making them well placed to support the development of smarter asset management strategies.

A common discussion point was the need for greater collaboration across transport modes, with operators, infrastructure owners, local authorities, and technology providers all recognised as playing important roles in creating more efficient and integrated public transport systems.

Many of the challenges discussed closely mirror those already experienced within the light rail sector and therefore reinforced the value of UKTram’s cross-sector perspective and the opportunity to share lessons learned more widely.

Reflecting on the event, James Hammett said:

"The conference reinforced that the future of asset management is just as much about connecting organisations as it is about adopting new technology. Light rail has an important role to play in that conversation. Tramways already operate at the interface between multiple transport modes and infrastructure systems, giving the sector valuable experience that can support wider discussions around integrated asset management and digital transformation.”

The event also provided opportunities to strengthen relationships with organisations working at the forefront of digital asset management, including Connected Places Catapult, infrastructure specialists, and transport authorities, while exploring future collaboration on data standards, interoperability, and integrated transport planning.

As UKTram continues its work around digital transformation and knowledge sharing, engaging with the wider transport sector remains an important part of ensuring light rail expertise contributes to the future development of public transport across the UK.