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West Midlands Metro, operated by Midland Metro Limited (MML), recorded 5.4 million passenger journeys in the year ending March 2023, reflecting a 14.9% increase compared to the previous year. This rise is attributed to infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to overhead line equipment that had previously caused disruptions. These upgrades were integrated into regular maintenance routines alongside the construction of a new link between the existing network and the Dudley extension. The project involved building a delta junction, installing new track and overhead lines, and necessitated the temporary closure of several stops. During these closures, ticket acceptance for alternative bus and rail services was provided.
Customer satisfaction remained high, with nearly 90% of passengers satisfied with their journeys and 75% rating the service as good value for money. Satisfaction with journey times and tram stop safety also exceeded 90%. For 2023/24, passenger journeys increased to 8.3 million, a 49% year-on-year growth.
In response to the cost-of-living crisis, MML implemented a two-year price freeze and introduced discounted fares for schools and community groups. Safety measures were enhanced through initiatives such as body-worn cameras for frontline staff and increased patrols by British Transport Police. The network holds Safer Tram Stop accreditation, highlighting its commitment to passenger safety.
MML also supports the local economy, with 74% of its workforce from the Black Country. Through partnerships with local colleges and work academies, MML helps people return to work and offers career pathways. In 2023, 30 colleagues achieved a combined 50 external qualifications, including the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) and the Institution of Occupational Safety & Health (IOSH).
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Blackpool Transport operates an 11-mile tramway that runs from Blackpool to Fleetwood along the Fylde Coast. In the year ending March 2023, the service recorded 4.9 million passenger journeys, representing a 16.7% increase compared to the previous year, with total revenue reaching £5.3 million and passenger kilometres amounting to 18.3 million. Patronage levels have now returned to pre-pandemic figures.
The tramway, which has its origins dating back to 1885, is the only surviving first-generation tramway in the UK. In 2012, a £100 million upgrade was completed, which involved the replacement of all 11 miles of track, the construction of a new depot, and the introduction of a fleet of 16 state-of-the-art trams. Following preparations for a new tramway extension, the fleet has expanded to 18 trams, enhancing service capacity.
The upgraded system allows for faster journey times along the Fylde Coast, featuring Bombardier Flexity2 trams that provide level boarding and step-free interiors, ensuring accessibility for all passengers. Customer satisfaction has remained consistent at around 95%.
In partnership with Blackpool Council, Blackpool Transport is developing a Tramway Asset Management Strategy (TAMS), aimed at optimising asset performance and maintenance. As part of this strategy, an annual refresher training course for tram drivers has been introduced, focusing on safety and operational efficiency.
The Talbot Road Tramway Extension is set to reopen passenger trams to Talbot Road in June 2024, featuring a 600-metre track extension to Blackpool North Station. This extension, funded by Blackpool Council and the Lancashire Growth Deal, is part of a £2 billion regeneration programme intended to enhance town connectivity and promote sustainable travel across the Northwest.
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In 2023, Edinburgh Trams recorded 9.3 million passenger journeys, reflecting a 90% increase from 4.8 million in 2022. The Trams to Newhaven project, which extends the existing 14-kilometre tram network by 4.69 kilometres, was completed on time and within budget. Construction commenced in November 2019, with passenger services beginning in June 2023. Following the extension's launch, patronage doubled within just a few months. August 2023 marked a peak period, as Edinburgh Trams experienced its busiest month ever, with approximately 1.2 million customer journeys recorded.
Ticket transactions have more than doubled, with over 11,000 tickets purchased in August alone, leading to a monthly average exceeding 10,000 sales. The introduction of the ‘TapTapCap’ system in collaboration with Lothian Buses allows for seamless transitions between buses and trams.
To accommodate anticipated growth, an extensive recruitment campaign titled ‘Glide to the Future’ successfully attracted applicants from diverse backgrounds, resulting in the hiring of 40 new tram drivers. Additionally, a dedicated ‘Airport squad’ was formed, consisting of 40 personnel to assist visitors with travel options and ticket deals.
Significant investments were made in ticketing technology, including upgrades to the ‘ET app’, which now offers discounted bundles of day tickets. The relaunch of the ‘Edinburgh Ticket’ sales website provides visitors with multi-day options for travel from the airport to the city centre. Special services and ticket offers have been introduced for major sporting and cultural events, including free all-night services on New Year’s Eve, which recorded nearly 20,000 trips overnight.
