In a week that saw face coverings become mandatory on public transport in England, marketing and customer services professionals from across the light rail sector held a virtual meeting to report on the challenges faced when implementing the new rules.
The online Teams meeting also enabled members of the UKTram Marketing, Communications and Customer Services Group to share valuable insights into wider measures taken by networks in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
The full story can be found here
In other news from across the sector:
West Midlands Metro
West Midlands Metro has launched a short, animated video offering useful tips on how to use the tram during the coronavirus outbreak.
As well as outlining the latest advice for customers, it also highlights steps being taken to help prevent the spread of the virus on the tramway. Read more here
NET
In Nottingham, essential work to replace some city-centre track got underway at the weekend.
Track between the Royal Centre and Old Market Square tram stops will be replaced over the next few weeks and you can read more about it on the NET website
Edinburgh Trams
Following an announcement by the Scottish Government, the wearing of face coverings is now mandatory when travelling on public transport.
This applies to enclosed areas such as onboard trams and shelters but does not include tram stops which are open to the elements, but only when physical distancing can be maintained.
The full story can be found here
Sheffield Supertram
The network is now offering customers a new journey assistance card for those who are exempt from wearing a face covering.
The Supertram website features a Face Covering FAQs andlists some of the reasons why someone may be except, as well as a link for those who wish to download the card.
Tyne & Wear Metro
A full Metro day and night timetable will be in operation from Monday 29 June although it’s urging customers to continue to follow strict precautions against coronavirus after the network experienced its busiest day since lockdown began.
Passenger numbers surged on Monday, June 15, as non-essential shops reopened and more children went back to school. Read the full story here
Heritage
The Isle of Man Government has committed to completing the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway.
It had previously been reported that the government may not fulfil a promise to relay all the track between Derby Castle and the Sea Terminal but now it appears the work will go ahead over the winter of 2021 – including the final section between Broadway and the Sea Terminal.
The full story can be found here