Sheffield's Supertram could be axed and replaced by bus network, says surveyÂ

Sheffield's beloved Supertram network could be axed if transport chiefs fail to convince the government to stump up £230 million to renew the system. Â
Supertram.Supertram.
Supertram.

South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive revealed the tram system could be closed because the current trams are 'coming to the end of their working life' after more than 20 years' operation and there is not currently any money set aside to rebuild parts of the network or buy new vehicles.

SYPTE is now hoping to raise £230 million from the Department for Transport to allow the tram system to keep running for another 30 years '“ but warned if the money doesn't come, the trams could become a thing of the past.

Supertram arrives in 1993.Supertram arrives in 1993.
Supertram arrives in 1993.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The transport group has now launched a consultation asking members of the public for their opinions on the future of the trams which will help inform their 'business case' to take to Whitehall.

The survey reads: 'Whilst ongoing maintenance costs are paid for by the current tram operator (Stagecoach), there is no funding currently in place for the long-term renewal of the system.

"In preparing our business case to central government, we are required to consider a range of options for the future of Supertram, including their forecast costs and benefits.

"If we are unsuccessful in securing future funding for a mass transit solution the Supertram network may have to be closed and decommissioned, the cost of which would have to be covered by the region. Closure would also prevent any future network extensions."

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The survey focuses on three different options:- to replace the trams with buses, maintain the network as it is or to renew and modernise the system. 

It proposes that the Supertram system could be 'decommissioned and replaced by a dedicated, high quality, bus network from 2024.' This would involve 'modern, low emission vehicles (electric or hybrid)' operating on the same routes 'where possible.'

Ongoing operating costs would be lower as there would be 'no track or overhead wires to maintain' and the bus upgrade would take about three years to complete.

But the document cautions that replacing the network would 'undermine the benefits' of the tram-train project between Sheffield Cathedral and Rotherham Parkgate that is due to launch in the coming weeks. 

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Another option is to 'maintain the network as it is' but this would potentially result in 'a reduction in the quality of service.'

A third option considered is to 'renew and modernise' the network, which would start in 2024 and take about six years to complete. This 'would offer a better and more modern service for up to 30 years, which could include 'new vehicles, track, information systems, power supply and increased depot capacity.'

Stagecoach provides maintenance for the network under a concession agreement that is up for renewal in March 2024. The survey, which runs until November 5, is available at travelsouthyorkshire.com/futuretram Â