£90 million to be invested into new Supertram fleet in South Yorkshire
Introduced in the 1990s, the current Supertram vehicles are approaching the end of their operational life after more than 30 years of service.
South Yorkshire will soon see brand new trams as the current fleet comes to the end of its operational life.
South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has launched a new public engagement programme to get local views on its plans for a new tram fleet.
The fleet is part of plans for the South Yorkshire People’s Network (SYPN), a £1.5 billion public transport project aimed to unify local buses, the Supertram, trains and cycling schemes.
Introduced in the 1990s, the current Supertram vehicles are approaching the end of their operational life after more than 30 years of service.
Current concepts for the trams prioritise more designated space for bikes, wheelchairs and pushchairs, air conditioning, and less steps up to seating for improved accessibility.
A survey launched on August 10 runs until September 18, for people to share their views on everything from accessibility, comfort, safety, and passenger information.
SYMCA will be holding online information sessions for people to attend virtually on Tuesday, August 18 from 12pm to 1pm and from 6pm to 7pm.
Feedback from the survey will help inform plans for the new fleet, before manufacturers are invited to bid to deliver the trams.
South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity. We’re investing £90 million on the new trams, and we need to make the most of it.
“The trams have been part of our lives for more than 30 years – helping us get to work, school, appointments, days out and so much more. They’ve served South Yorkshire brilliantly, but they’re getting past the point where we need to update them if we want to make sure the network is fit for the future.”