'˜Terrible for the city' '“ Sheffield residents react to news that the Supertram network is under threat

Sheffield's Supertram system could be under threat if the network is unable to secure £230million to fund new vehicles and pay for rebuilding work '“ and it has not gone over well with local residents.
SupertramSupertram
Supertram

South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive revealed the future of Sheffield's trams is at risk as part of a survey to passengers on Monday. 

The aim is to get the £230million from central government to keep the system running for the next 30 years, but the network risks closure if the money is not found.

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Many angry local residents felt that SYPTE and Stagecoach, who are responsible for the operation and the maintenance of the trams, should not be helped with central government money.

Reacting to the news, Rachel Steele wrote on Facebook: 'Why should Stagecoach benefit from £230m taxpayers cash? If the private company currently profiting running it can't stump up for basic maintenance, it should be taken into public ownership. That way any profits can be put into maintenance and buying new trams instead of lining Brian Souter's pockets.'

Danny Hyatt added: 'Thought they'd just spent the last 3 summers replacing the tracks. And bought a load of new trams in the last 5 years. So what's this really about?'

Diane Sockett was also unhappy with the way the trams have been run. She wrote: 'Can Sheffield get anything right? Why hadn't there been money set aside from profits to pay for future repairs etc. Greedy fat cats yet again.'

SYPTE is exploring '˜alternatives to Supertram' as part of a public consultation asking members of the public for their opinions in a survey that will run until November 5, here.