UK: Light rail operators are to discuss ways to address disruption caused by other road users, and an industry group has been formed to share best practice in customer communications.
‘The actions of third parties can have a significant impact on service delivery’, said James Hammett, Managing Director of light rail industry association UKTram on February 10. ’Delays can be caused by vehicles blocking the path of the tram, road congestion and a host of other minor incidents that operators frequently encounter.
‘However, some networks have managed to improve their performance by working on solutions with external organisations, including highways agencies and the emergency services, as well as through public information campaigns.’
Meanwhile, a UKTram Communications & Customer Services sub-group has been formed to share best practice in marketing, public relations, enhancing the customer experience and safety messaging.
Tram patronage remains below pre-pandemic levels, said Chair of the sub-group Tom Singleton, who is Head of Service Delivery at London Trams. ‘In response, operators are developing campaigns to boost customer numbers, and the future meeting will provide the ideal platform to share ideas and benefit from the experience of other systems facing similar challenges.’
- UKTram members have also met to discuss the impact of proposed legislation which would require minimum service levels during industrial action.
