LRTA proposes tram network to transform mobility and economy in Derby

The Light Rail Transit Association (LRTA) has submitted a detailed proposal, compiled by David Gibson, their Regional Officer for the East Midlands, for a modern tramway network in Derby, in response to the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Mayor’s transport consultation.

The proposed network is designed to connect Derby’s major traffic generators with its principal residential areas, significantly improving mobility while supporting economic growth, regeneration, and environmental objectives across the wider Derby area.

The proposal comprises four tram lines:

• Line 1 would run from The Wyvern, via Pride Park, Derby Midland Station, the city centre, and the former Great Northern alignment to Kingsway, before forming a loop serving the Royal Derby Hospital, Mickleover, and Mackworth.
• Line 2 would connect with Line 1 at Derby Midland Station, follow the Birmingham railway corridor, and serve the Rolls-Royce Sinfin site, Infinity Park, Shelton Lock, Chellaston, Boulton Moor, Alvaston, and Raynesway, before reconnecting with Line 1 at The Wyvern.
• Line 3 would branch from Line 1 at Willow Row, run through the West End to the University of Derby sites in the Markeaton area, serve the Kedleston Road campus, and continue to a loop around Allestree.
• Line 4 would run from The Wyvern and connect with Nottingham Express Transit (NET) at Toton Lane, serving Spondon, Borrowash, Draycott, Breaston, and Long Eaton.

The full network would be expected to attract approximately 75,000 passenger trips per day, with the majority coming from former car users. This modal shift would make a major contribution to reducing congestion while helping to rejuvenate Derby city centre.

The LRTA notes that a well-designed and well-executed tram system of this scale would be significantly cheaper than the reported £650 million A38 Derby Junctions road scheme, while delivering far greater benefits in terms of economic productivity, accessibility, and environmental performance.

Modern tram systems are among the most environmentally efficient forms of urban transport. Steel wheels running on steel rails have far lower rolling resistance than road vehicles, resulting in inherently low energy consumption. When powered by renewable electricity, trams operate with zero tailpipe emissions and avoid the non-exhaust particulate pollution associated with tyre and road wear, which is increasingly recognised as a serious public health issue. International experience also shows that trams are particularly effective at encouraging people to switch from car travel.

David Andrews, Chair of the LRTA Campaigns Group, said “The LRTA believes that a Derby tram network would represent a transformational investment, delivering long-term benefits for residents, businesses, and the wider East Midlands region”.

See Full Proposal

BBC News: Transport group sets out blueprint for Derby tram network

David Gibson’s Interview on Radio Derby