South Yorkshire Mayor issues update after "historic mine shaft" found underneath Supertram tracks
“We're now carrying out the next phase of investigations to understand exactly what's happening beneath the track”
South Yorkshire’s Mayor has issued an update on repair works to Sheffield’s tram network after it was discovered part of the track had been laid over a historic well.
Since Sunday, August 23, the blue route on Sheffield’s Supertram network has been disrupted after drivers were alerted to the issue near Birley Lane.
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It has mean trams are unable to run through to Halfway until the problem is addressed.
In a new update, Mayor Oliver Coppard - who’s office took over Supertram management in 2024 - has said his team is working to fix the problem, which seems to have been caused by a “historic mine shaft or well beneath the tram tracks”.
“We're now carrying out the next phase of investigations to understand exactly what's happening beneath the track,” Mayor Coppard added.
“This includes drilling boreholes and using specialist scanning technology to build a detailed picture of the shaft and the surrounding ground.
“The challenge is that because of the age of the structure, there are still a number of unknowns. We do not yet know its full depth or the condition it’s in.
“We're working closely with the Mining Remediation Authority and other experts to make sure we fully understand the risks and develop a solution that is safe, permanent and robust.”
In August, The Star uncovered historic ordinance survey maps identifying a ‘shaft’ or ‘pump’ in the area as early as 1877.
From the 1950s the site ceases to be marked and is absent from future maps.
They mayor said that fixing the problem is set to be a “complex engineering challenge” that will not be resolved quickly, but they are doing all they can to minimise disruptions.
He went on to say: “One option under consideration is whether trams could safely operate past the site using the unaffected track. Before any decision is made, we need to be certain that can work safely and without impacting the work needed for a long-term fix.
“I appreciate how frustrating all this is, particularly for those who rely on the Blue route every day. Replacement bus services will continue to operate between Gleadless Townend and Halfway, with Supertram tickets accepted.
“Following passenger feedback, we're also increasing the number of buses along this line of route to get people moving quickly and to make sure journeys are as comfortable as they can be in the circumstances.
“Thank you for all your patience and understanding. I'll keep updating everyone as we learn more, and as we continue to try and restore services as quickly and safely as possible.”