Light rail and other rapid transit systems have the potential to play a greater role in UK transport networks, the transport minister has said as the Government launched a call for evidence on the subject.
The Department for Transport is seeking views on how to better harness the opportunities for building on the popularity of light rail and build manufacturing and engineering capacity in the UK.
London's Docklands Light Railway at Canary Wharf/small>
In the foreword to the document, transport minister Jesse Norman wrote: ‘It is clear from the evidence that light rail (and other forms of rapid transit system) continues to play a very useful role in many communities, and has the potential to play a still greater role in future.’
He added: ‘The time is now right for us to consider how light rail, or similar rapid transit systems, could be incorporated into the transport networks in our towns and cities in the future, and how they will help to complement and integrate new modes and trends.
‘This Call for Evidence invites your thoughts on how we can help harness the opportunities for building on the popularity of light rail, with the hope of introducing these systems into our cities and towns.’
The call for evidence asks a range of questions including:
- if there is a need for other light rail and other rapid transit systems in the UK
- what the possible environmental, economic and congestion benefits would be of introducing new systems
- if there are issues preventing light rail and other rapid transit solutions
The consultation closes on 19 May.
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