UKTram welcomes Arup as a new member

UKTram welcomes Arup as its newest member, a global consultancy with more than 80 years of experience, delivering sustainable transport solutions worldwide through integrated strategy, planning, engineering and design.

The organisation joins UKTram during a period of renewed momentum for light rail, marked by growing interest in mass transit, increased devolution and evolving transport policy. Arup is also represented on the Mass Transit Taskforce, which is exploring how sustainable urban transport schemes can be delivered more quickly and cost-effectively.

Explaining the decision to join UKTram, Richard Mansfield, UK Light Rail Leader at Arup, said:

“Light rail is good for places, people and growth. Not only does it provide a sustainable and highly efficient mode of transport, it also acts as a catalyst for economic growth and regeneration."

“Interest in light rail is as strong as it has ever been. With increased devolution, changes to the legal and regulatory framework, the creation of the Mass Transit Taskforce and a genuine appetite across the sector to work more collaboratively, there is a real opportunity to kickstart a light rail revolution in the UK. We want to be at the forefront of that change.”

Arup is currently active across several major light rail schemes. Its work includes developing proposals for Nexus's Tyne and Wear Metro extension to Washington and Transport for London's DLR extension to Thamesmead. It also provides strategic and technical advice to transport authorities and mayoral combined authorities nationally.

In Coventry, Arup is acting as Lead Designer for the Very Light Rail City Centre Demonstrator. Developed over eight years through sector collaboration, the project is exploring how innovative engineering and new construction techniques could make light rail infrastructure quicker and more cost-effective to deliver.

This work reflects the extensive experience Arup can contribute to UKTram’s membership, with expertise spanning strategic advice, multidisciplinary design and every stage of project delivery. 

Through its membership, Arup hopes to help develop more consistent approaches to light rail delivery, reduce duplication and strengthen skills across the sector.

Richard added:

“We see significant opportunities to develop a more common approach to light rail delivery in the UK, reducing the need to reinvent the wheel while supporting skills growth and retention across the industry. 

“By sharing knowledge, learning from international best practice and working more collaboratively, we can help create a stronger pipeline of projects and build greater confidence in light rail as a long-term transport solution.”

James Hammett, Managing Director of UKTram, said:

“Arup brings a huge amount of experience to UKTram at a pivotal time for light rail and will add real value to our membership as we work collectively to support more efficient delivery and strengthen confidence in the sector.”

UKTram looks forward to working closely with Arup as it shares its expertise, supports innovation and contributes to the future of light rail.

Interested in becoming part of the UK’s growing light rail community?

UKTram membership connects organisations with industry leaders, specialist working groups and opportunities to help shape the future of light rail across the UK and Ireland. Find out more about becoming a member by contacting info@uktram.co.uk