Network Rail, South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) and Stagecoach Supertram have together launched the Tram Train Pilot Learning Hub; this contains a wealth of information drawn from the collective experience of designing, constructing and operating Britain’s first Tram Train system.

Generally, Tram Trains can provide new journeys and connections with much less infrastructure than totally new tram or rail routes. Passengers can make a single, seamless journey between light rail tram stops and conventional heavy rail stations; and with many being electric or battery-powered they are better for the environment.

The launch of the hub is a key part of the Tram Train Pilot scheme in South Yorkshire, which runs between Sheffield Cathedral and Rotherham Parkgate via Rotherham Central station, linking previously unconnected areas.

The pilot, funded by the Department for Transport (DfT), has been running for two years to test customer satisfaction, passenger numbers, reliability and cost. The hub — a key objective and outcome of the pilot scheme — is a comprehensive body of learning available free-of-charge that will benefit and boost future light and heavy rail hybrid schemes like Tram Train. It is hosted by the web-based SharpCloud system.

Simon Coulthard, Network Rail’s head of light rail knowledge and development, said: “The launch of the learning hub marks another major milestone in the delivery of the Tram Train pilot. I thank my colleagues in SYPTE, Supertram and Network Rail for helping to compile the information and data that makes this a very comprehensive learning resource.

“I hope colleagues in the industry will find the hub valuable as they assess the potential for Tram Train elsewhere.”

The launch of the hub marks the first major deliverable for Network Rail’s new Light Rail Knowledge team, which is part of the Network Services directorate. The team has been created to provide a centre of excellence in Network Rail for light rail matters.