The UK’s first-ever tram-train has been formally unveiled in Sheffield by Transport Minister Andrew Jones.
It is the first of seven tram-trains being built by Vossloh in Spain for the Sheffield Supertram system.
Static testing has already started at Stagecoach’s Nunnery Depot. By next summer, the operator hopes to have received three of the vehicles from Spain, with regular passenger services slated for early 2017.
Cutting the ceremonial ribbon on December 10, Andrew Jones said: “The unveiling of the UK’s first Tram Train is a major milestone and paves the way for an impressive new fleet of passenger vehicles to come into service from next year.
“This government-funded pioneering project will help transform travel in South Yorkshire with better journeys and improved connections. It will also boost the economy of the local area and beyond.
“Good strategic transport links and infrastructure are central to rebalancing the economy, bringing the country closer together and the success of the Northern Powerhouse.”
The two-year pilot project – a joint initiative between South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE), Network Rail, Stagecoach Supertram and Northern Rail – will see three tram-trains an hour travel from Sheffield Cathedral to Meadowhall South before switching over to the national rail network between Parkgate Retail Centre via Rotherham Central station.
