Fresh delay for Sheffield to Rotherham tram-train trial

NETWORK Rail has confirmed that the tram-train trial between Sheffield and Rotherham has been delayed, with no date confirmed for its introduction.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said that the Department for Transport and South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive, which is funding the project, had been advised by NR that a review has been initiated regarding the current programme of work needed to adapt the infrastructure, to allow the seven tram-trains to operate between Meadowhall South and Rotherham Parkgate.

Responding to a Parliamentary Question from Liberal Democrat Campaigns Chairman Greg Mulholland, Jones explained: “The Department understands that Network Rail has encountered significant issues with the approval of new bespoke electrification equipment needed to operate the tram-train vehicles.

“The current programme showed delivery of these works by early spring 2017. However, until the outcome of the Network Rail review is known, no further details can be provided.”

NR spokesman Dan Donovan told RAIL: “The tram-train pilot in south Yorkshire is a first for Britain’s rail network, and as such it involves a number of bespoke designs that will allow tram-trains to operate over the rail network. The project team is carrying out a thorough review of the programme and will report back to stakeholders by the summer.

“This will allow us to work together to deliver a robust plan for bringing tram-trains into service on the heavy rail network, and we will publicise this widely once it is agreed. As we develop this new technology, we are committed to sharing our learnings with the industry in order to aid the efficient implementation of tram-train schemes elsewhere in the country.

“We know that tram and rail users in south Yorkshire are looking forward to travelling by tram-train, and we’re sorry that this is further delayed.”

DfT announced the tram-train trial in 2008, originally for the Penistone Line. That was due to start in 2010, but was changed in 2009 and Sheffield chosen instead. Approval came from the DfT in 2012, with a funding commitment of £58 million. A 400-metre chord between Network Rail and Sheffield Supertram infrastructure is required, as well as electrification of eight miles of railway to Rotherham.

Vossloh is building the tramtrains, and the first arrived in December last year ( RAIL 788, 789).