Major Supertram network improvements to take place over school holidays as longer journey times expected
“Supertram is at the heart of the South Yorkshire People's Network that we're building together.”
Major improvements to Sheffield’s supertram network could lead to longer journey times this summer.
In a statement, the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority explained that they are planning to invest £110m into improving the supertram network which is in need of a renewal after more than 30 years in operation.
The essential works which are now underway will focus on replacing track points, signalling equipment and pedestrian crossings.
This initial £3.5m project is intended to help improve the Supertram network and keep it running safely and reliably for years to come.
These improvements this summer are part of South Yorkshire's wider People’s Network vision – creating a better-connected public transport system that makes it easier, greener and more reliable for people to travel.
Investing in Supertram is seen as a key part of building a network that links communities to jobs, education and opportunities.
Melanie Corcoran, Executive Director of Transport at South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, said: "This multi-million pound investment we're making will create a more reliable network for all of us who depend on Supertram every day.
“The investment is essential if we're going to build a tram network that is fit for the future and will serve us well in the next 30 years.”
The first phase of work will run until Friday 7 August, where the focus will be on replacing rails near Herdings Park. During this phase, the Purple route will run a limited service between Cathedral and Gleadless Townend.
The works will then move onto the major junction of all tram routes, known as the Delta junction, which sits on Commercial Street bridge above the Park Square roundabout, near to Hyde Park and Fitzalan Square, in Sheffield city centre.
The Delta junction is of vital importance to the network with over 440 trams running across it every day, serving all lines on the network.
During this second phase of works – which will run from Saturday 8 August to Monday 31 August – the full junction will be replaced including new track, points, signalling equipment and pedestrian crossings. Works will also take place near Hyde Park to replace the tracks as they cross Bernard Road.
Whilst Blue, Yellow, Purple and Tram Train services will continue to run, all services across the network will be subject to changes to their routes and timetables to accommodate the works.
Replacement buses will be provided to help keep people moving to those areas which cannot be served by the tram network. Customers are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.
The works have been scheduled during the school summer holidays when passenger numbers on the network are lower.
Melanie Corcoran added: "We know carrying out this work will mean some disruption during the school holidays, and we're grateful for everyone’s understanding while it's completed.
"Supertram is at the heart of the South Yorkshire People's Network that we're building together – creating a public transport system that is more reliable, better connected and makes it easier for everyone to get to work, education and opportunities."