Network Rail is planning to build a new section of track in Sheffield to link the city’s Supertram to the train line.
Local residents, landowners, rail and tram passengers are invited to comment on the construction plans for 150 metres of track that will link the railway and Stagecoach Supertram networks at Tinsley.
The project was approved by the government in 2012 and forms part of the Sheffield City Region Devolution Deal. The partners in the Tram Train project are Network Rail, Department for Transport, Northern Rail, South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive and Stagecoach Supertram.
Tram Trains will provide a direct service between Sheffield city centre, Rotherham Central train station and Parkgate retail park. Tram Trains will use the existing Supertram route between Cathedral and Meadowhall South and then move onto the rail network via the proposed new track to Parkgate.
The chord will need:
- 150 metres of new track with associated ground work
- Overhead line equipment to carry the power to the Tram Trains
- Lineside equipment including a small new building to house electrical equipment.
An application for a Transport Work Act Order (TWAO) will be submitted to the secretary of state for transport in spring 2015. There will be a further public consultation as part of this process. Depending upon the TWAO process and decision, work to construct the chord is expected to start in spring 2016 and take eight months to complete.
Network Rail area director Warrick Dent said: “This is an exciting stage of the project as we consult on plans which, if approved, will turn years of meticulous planning into Britain’s first operational Tram Train service. This will improve journeys between Sheffield and Rotherham and boost the local economy by giving improved access to jobs, education and leisure activities as well as directly creating around 35 new jobs.
“Tram Trains are a common sight in Europe and we believe they could help to improve journey options for passengers around our towns and cities. Even though the Tram Trains run elsewhere, we have had many complex issues to work through with our partners in the project to make sure that the vehicles can operate safely in Britain without causing unnecessary disruption to regular tram and rail passengers.”
Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk
