NOTTINGHAM'S NEW TRAM SERVICE IS ABOUT TO GET THE GREEN LIGHT

This article describes the planning and implementation of a new tram service in the city of Nottingham, UK. Construction work started in 2000 and full service is expected from spring 2004. A dummy service has operated along the routes as part of extensive trials: the trials were seen as a useful way of introducing the public gradually to having a tram track in the city. It is estimated that the trams will carry about eleven million passengers a year, removing two million car journeys from the roads. Priority will be given to trams at junctions and journey times are expected to be quick. The tram service is expected to complement existing bus services rather than compete with them. Fares are based on the equivalent of two hours' parking. A public information campaign has operated to explain the process of installing the tram system and the disruption this caused.