British construction company VolkerRail, subsidiary of VolkerWessels, is providing a new stage in the track replacement on the Sheffield Supertram network. The works have started in the middle of April and will continue by the end of August. The project includes the installation of 22 kilometres of new tracks.

“These rail replacement works, a project started in 2013 and resumed last year, are essential to extend the lifespan of one of the best-loved modes of transport in the region, which began operating 25 years ago. The new rail will give passengers a better Supertram experience – improving comfort and reducing noise in areas where tracks are currently worn,” said Tim Taylor, director of customer services at South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE).

This year’s works are scheduled to carry out at five locations: Hillsborough Corner & Middlewood Road (19 April – 2 June), Shalesmoor towards Hillsborough (3 June – 18 July), Shalesmor (22-25 July), Hillsborough Corner – Holme Lane (26 July – 9 August) and Glossop Road (25-30 August). During the replacement, several tram sections will be closed. Passenger transportation will be provided by buses.

Sheffield Supertram

Sheffield Supertram network consists of four lines and 50 stations. The system was opened in 1994 and it was extended with tram-train service in Octobe2 2018. Now, the Sheffield Supertram network includes three tram lines and one tram-train route. They are served by Supertram vehicles produced by Siemens-Duewag and Citylink units manufactured by Vossloh España, a part of Stadler Rail. Sheffield Supertram is the only public transportation system in the United Kingdom to provide tram-train service.