Life extension works continue on Sheffield Supertram

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) appointed VolkerRail to renew areas of track on one of the region’s best loved modes of transport, to extend the lifespan of the network, improve comfort and reduce noise in areas where tracks are currently worn.

 The works form part of their ongoing maintenance programme and are critical to providing passengers with a better travel experience, as well as lowering the risk of network closures on safety grounds.

Close to 2,000m of track will be replaced in 2024, across three phases, with 200m to be replaced in May. Work will be undertaken at key points across the summer, and wherever possible, will coincide with school holidays to minimise disruption.

The first phase of work will see VolkerRail replace the track crossing units at Cathedral tram stop. Work will begin on Friday 24 May through to Monday 3 June, with overnight preparatory works commencing on Sunday 19 May around the Cathedral and Fitzalan Square tram stops.

Melanie Corcoran, executive director of transport at SYMCA, said: “These essential works are vital to extend the lifespan of the Supertram network.

“Every effort is being made to minimise the impact and to keep people moving while this work progresses.

“By replacing the track we’re making sure the region’s tram network can continue to safely provide its popular service for generations to come.”

VolkerRail’s metro and rail projects general manager, Sam Allen, said: “With over a decade of experience on the Supertram network, we are delighted to be back to continue our efforts in extending the life of this network.

“We understand the impact this work has on local residents, and our teams will be working around the clock to complete renewals as efficiently as possible. We will also be using the most effective methods to minimise disruption and reduce the noise this type of work generates. I’d like to thank local residents and passengers in advance for their understanding and patience.”

Tram services

To allow these essential engineering works to take place in the city centre, between Cathedral and the junction above Park Square roundabout, tram and Tram Train services will be subject to alteration from Saturday 25 May until start of service on Monday 3 June.

West Street, City Hall, Cathedral, Castle Square and Fitzalan Square tram stops will not be served for the duration of the works.

Throughout each phase, the Supertram network will run a revised timetable and services, and customers can view the revised timetables via the Travel South Yorkshire Timetable Finder.

Further information will be available via a dedicated webpage: travelsouthyorkshire.com/RailReplacement, or customers can call Traveline on 0800 952 0002. Details of the impact of the rail replacement works on tram and bus services will also be available on its disruptions page.