Nottingham Express Transit (NET)’s latest operational update shows reliability figures and compliance rates.
Covering the period from May to November 2024, the report sheds light on performance metrics, key events, parking enforcement, and community engagement.
The tram service maintained reliability rates between 93.6% and 95.8% during this seven-month period. August 2024 was notable, achieving the best operational results since 2016.
However, challenges such as tram availability, affected by ongoing repairs and road traffic collisions, underlined areas for improvement.
Substation faults, stemming from national grid power issues and component failures, also presented hurdles. Despite these setbacks, NET’s operational team managed to uphold service standards, with additional efforts to address incidents like traffic congestion and minor collisions involving cyclists.
Service Interruptions and Incidents
Key incidents during the period included:
- A serious motorcycle and car collision at Sheriff’s Way in June, which caused significant disruption.
- A derailment in September, following a scaffolding truck collision, requiring extensive repairs.
- Delays caused by extreme weather conditions in November, including snow and ice.
NET’s response to these incidents often included replacement bus services and rigorous post-incident reviews to enhance future resilience.
Parking Enforcement and Fare Evasion
Parking enforcement remained steady, with an average of 60 vehicles clamped monthly across NET’s seven park-and-ride sites. The system also continued its zero-tolerance campaign against fare evasion, partnering with Nottinghamshire Police to reduce non-payment rates. The initiative included a refreshed marketing campaign launched in December 2024.
Anti-Social Behaviour and Community Safety
Anti-social behaviour (ASB) incidents have shown a sustained decline, though challenges persist for frontline staff. Criminal damage and abuse of staff remain concerns, prompting NET to strengthen collaborations with local police and schools in affected areas. High-definition CCTV footage has been instrumental in identifying and prosecuting offenders.
Infrastructure Improvements
NET undertook significant infrastructure projects during this period, including:
- Track Renewal: A two-week programme at High School and Royal Centre in July was completed on time with minimal disruption, earning positive customer feedback.
- Overhead Line Repairs: Work at Beeston in November caused some early service delays but was swiftly addressed to minimise customer impact.
Engagement and Community Initiatives
The tram operator has been at the forefront of community engagement, including:
- Charity Events: A network walk from Hucknall to Clifton Centre raised over £1,000 for Nottingham Central Women’s Aid.
- Pride Partnership: Collaborating with East Midlands Railway and Alstom, NET unveiled a vibrant “trambow” tram during Nottingham Pride, promoting inclusivity and safe travel.
- Youth Outreach: Donations supported initiatives like Operation Polarised, tackling youth anti-social behaviour, alongside other charitable causes.
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