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2008 Issues Archive
15 October 2008
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Tram-trains set for trial with Northern Rail
The introduction of tram-trains in the UK moved a step closer last week when operator Northern Rail invited engineering companies to design and build the lightweight vehicles.
The company has invited bids for the manufacture and maintenance of a minimum of five tram-trains to operate on the 37-mile Penistone line between Sheffield, Barnsley and Huddersfield for a two-year trial.
During the trial, due to start in late 2010, engineers will assess the suitability of the rail network for tram-trains. In addition, the trial will examine the operating costs and the popularity of the vehicles with passengers.
A significant amount of preparation work including changes to the rail infrastructure and operating standards may be required before the trial can start.
Network Rail said: “We’ll be assessing the track to see if anything is needed. There will be some signalling changes and platform needs. The platform height will need to be different and we haven’t decided how to address that. It will probably be some form of platform extension which can be removed after the trial, if necessary.”
Tram-trains are popular in other parts of Europe, and Network Rail said it wanted them built in the best place possible, with bidding from European countries expected.
The second phase of the trial could involve the tram-trains running from Rotherham and joining the Sheffield Supertram system, to see what additional benefits the vehicles can deliver when extended on to city centre tram lines.
A Department for Trans-port spokesman said: “The government is providing
£9 million to support the development of tram-trains because they have real potential to deliver greener and faster journeys for passengers. This ground-breaking project is making good progress.”
© PE Publishing, 15 October 2008
