The company behind Nottingham’s tram network has received a further £4.4 million from the Government to keep operations running.
Passenger numbers have decreased significantly due to the pandemic, and social distancing requirements on the vehicles.
Now, the Department of Transport has awarded £4.4 million to Tramlink, bringing the total to £16.5 million since the start of the pandemic.
A statement from the Government says: “Outside London, more than 119 million journeys are taken by light rail or tram each year, underlining their value to communities across the North and Midlands.
“Usage has dropped since the start of the pandemic, which has had a significant impact on revenues - meaning local authorities and operators would have struggled to maintain services without Government intervention.
“The funding announced today, alongside three previous rounds of funding, will continue to help ease the financial burden on local authorities and operators, ensuring these vital services can continue running safely.”
The Government’s light rail minister Baroness Vere said: “Trams serve as a vital link for communities in the North and Midlands – whether it’s to get to local shops, school or work, we know many people rely on these services every day.
“That’s why we’re continuing to fund services so that they can operate safely during the pandemic.
“Passengers across the North and Midlands will continue to have access to the services they need.”
Councillor Adele Williams is Nottingham City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Local Transport, and said: “We welcome the additional funding that has been announced today by the Government, which will allow NET to continue to provide a vital service for essential journeys over the difficult winter that lies ahead.
“The tram network is a key component of our wider plans to keep the city moving, and we will continue to have a constructive dialogue with Tramlink and Government over the important and carbon-free role tram services will play in the recovery plans for our city centre and local economy in the months ahead".
Tramlink has been approached for comment.
