UKTram support reflected in major milestone for South Wales Metro as King Charles opens new depot

The official opening of the new South Wales Metro Depot at Taff’s Well marks a significant step forward for Transport for Wales (TfW) and a proud moment for the wider light rail sector. His Majesty King Charles’ visit drew national attention and the milestone reflects years of knowledge exchange and operational support facilitated by UKTram and its members. 

While UKTram’s recent support has focused on helping TfW prepare for tram-train introduction, the roots of collaboration stretch back much further. Early strategic engagement sector experts and advocates helped shape the South Wales Metro concept and establish the long-term vision now being delivered.

Since joining the UKTram member community in 2023, TfW has played an active role across the UKTram functional and working groups, including the Light Rail Operators Committee (LROC) and the Light Rail Engineers’ Group (LREG). It's been through these forums and a series of bespoke side meeting; TfW has been able to draw on decades of industry expertise as it develops the UK’s newest tram-train operation and prepares for the introduction of its 36-strong Class 398 fleet. 

TfW’s transition from heavy rail operation into tram-train raised enquiry into things like vehicle design, multi-system operation and infrastructure integration. UKTram members have provided insight on topics including cab layout, braking functionality, lineside signage, Highway Interface Documents and Crowd Management planning. 

The formalised collaboration began in 2021, when TfW Driver Integration Manager, Kevin Canavan, first approached UKTram seeking guidance on dual-mode operation, safety requirements and competency frameworks. Since then, discussions have evolved to cover:

• The development of a rulebook approach for mixed heavy/light rail operation 

• Track brake safety requirements and braking system integrity 

• Best practice for driver competency and dual-mode training 

• Joint Asset Management Plans and Highway Interface Documents, with examples provided via operators such as Transport for West Midlands 

• Practical learning visits to major networks including Manchester Metrolink and Edinburgh Trams 

"It's a move I've never regretted, making contact with UKTram and becoming very much integrated with all the wonderful operators of light rail around the country!" - Kevin Canavan, TfW

Regular contact and meetings have enabled TfW to benchmark its approach against established networks and rapidly access advice from industry specialists. Most recently, TfW has also invited UKTram’s Operations Manager, Steve Duckering, to contribute to forthcoming risk workshops.  

‘’It has been a privilege to support Transport for Wales at each stage of this journey. The progress we see today reflects the the collective insight within the UK light rail community.”   - Steve Duckering, UKTram

 As TfW progresses its Cardiff Crossrail development, the organisation has again turned to UKTram and its membership for learning visits and cross-sector introductions to gain technical insight. This knowledge sharing continues to de-risk TfW’s major programmes and strengthens the sector’s collective understanding of emerging light rail schemes.

  The opening of the Taff’s Well Depot, which is now the operational home of the South Wales Metro, demonstrates the scale and ambition of Wales’ investment in sustainable transport.  

Electrification is now underway, the new infrastructure is complete and tram-train testing is progressing.  

The first tram-trains will enter service from spring 2026, connecting communities across the South Wales Valleys with faster, more reliable and more sustainable travel. UKTram will continue to support TfW through all stages of operational readiness, while facilitating further engagement with the Centre of Excellence and key stakeholder groups. 

For UKTram, it is also a testament to the value of collaboration and the strength of a unified national body. The project illustrates the advantages of a shared knowledge base and sector-wide learning environment.