12 March 2012
Tram-trains for Glasgow
As submitted to The Herald:
TRAM TRAINS for GLASGOW
Dear Sir,
The news that BAA is proposing a “Tram Train” link to Glasgow Airport (Herald, 12/3/12) is an opportunity to develop a world-class integrated public transport system for the Glasgow area.
Network Rail has launched an “Alternative Solutions” consultation on how traditional heavy rail suburban networks (as in Glasgow) can be expanded into high service frequency metro networks by introducing Tram Train technology. This allows the existing rail network to be extended relatively inexpensively on-street into commercial and residential areas not currently served by rail. Glasgow Airport, East Kilbride Town Centre, Castlemilk, Drumchapel, Easterhouse and Newton Mearns are some of the locations within a mile of the rail network that could be linked to the rail system by Tram Train technology.
Given the growing popularity of rail travel in Scotland, and the continuing decline in bus usage, a Tram Train strategy, combined with SPT’s Subway modernisation programme, could provide Glaswegians with a futuristic, high quality integrated urban transport system of the kind already developed in many German cities.
A new expansive transport strategy from Transport Scotland and SPT, based on growing rail traffic and diminishing road congestion, would be of huge economic benefit to the Glasgow area, and reverse the recent misconceived threat to close some Glasgow stations.
Yours faithfully,
Dr. John McCormick
Chairman
Scottish Association for Public Transport