Major UK city transport update as £43.7m tram route confirmed | UK | News
A “game-changing” transport project has been given major support in a UK city. The Coventry Very Light Rail (VLR) project has approved a 800-metre route between the West Midlands city’s railway station and Coventry University’s technology park on Mile Lane. The line, which officials say will operate in both directions and with live traffic, marks the “next important step” and follows the initial demonstration of the VLR earlier this year. Thousands of locals and professionals took the tram on the 220-metre track along Greyfriars Road and Queen Victoria Road.
Bosses emphasized that it was built in just eight weeks, which is faster than other rail systems. Coventry City Council said: “In the weeks following the tours the team were also able to show utility companies how simple and quick it was to access the cables and pipes under the tracks.” he said. It was reported that the new track will be delivered from the £43.7 million budget allocated to the project to date.
VLR’s unique rail system consists of prefabricated panels that are quick and easy to lay.
This means there is no need for deep excavations.
Organizers stressed that the project also saves carbon during construction, meaning it is “better for the environment even before the battery-powered vehicle starts working.”
Councilor Jim O’Boyle, cabinet member for jobs, regeneration and climate change, said: “Coventry Very Light Rail is leading transport innovation. It is a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional tram systems and we have proven it can be delivered at half the cost and in half the time.
“We are heading towards a real transport game changer here. It will be good for the environment, there will be no unsightly overhead cables and in the future it will have the potential to be autonomous – providing a hop-on and hop-off service.
“Furthermore, I think everyone who has seen and driven it here will agree that it looks great on the street and rides quietly and smoothly.
“I look forward to seeing it back and offering more people the chance to try it.”
The local authority says the first fully commercial route in the city could be between the railway station and the West Midlands Investment precinct centered on GreenPower Park.
The aim is then to serve the city with a 12km route connecting the area to the development taking place around Ansty Park.
Officials say this route will connect the train station and Pool Meadow bus terminal to healthcare, education and leisure facilities as well as employment opportunities.
The proposal will be discussed in the Council of Ministers on Tuesday, December 16.
