68,000: Hucknall and Bulwell tram operator reports huge surge in extra journeys during Goose Fair
New figures from tram operator Nottingham Express Transit (NET) have revealed an upward trend in people choosing the network to travel to last month’s Goose Fair event.
During the 10-day duration of this year’s fair, passenger numbers rose by 13 per cent compared to 2024’s figures – the equivalent of 68,000 more tram journeys.
NET say the figures show an increase in trust in the network and a rise in locals choosing the trams as their preferred mode of transport during busier periods within the city.
The news follows the recent introduction of an enhanced evening timetable which was put in place to meet the increased demands on the city during the Goose Fair period which saw trams running more frequently, alongside additional evening services.
Following a positive response from customers, since October 6, a further one-month trial of the enhanced timetable has been in place, aiming to help the city stay moving after dark in the run up to the busy festive period and the upcoming arrival of Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland.
Tim Hesketh, chief executive officer at Tramlink, which runs NET, said: “It’s becoming clear that more people are choosing to use the trams to enjoy everything our city has to offer.
"Our goal has always been to help keep the city moving, so these recent statistics are really positive.
“With more than 490,000 people visiting Goose Fair this year, the huge impact that this event continues to have on the local economy is clear to see and we’re pleased to have been able to play a part in facilitating that.
"The introduction of our recent enhanced timetable came off the back of positive customer feedback.
“As we head into another extremely busy festive period for the city, with thousands flocking from near and far to visit Nottingham’s popular Winter Wonderland, we’re looking forward to seeing the results of our current enhanced timetable trial.
“We’re also still collecting feedback from the people on whether they’d like to see the timetable become a permanent fixture, so we encourage anyone who’s not done so yet, to get in touch with their thoughts.”
For more information about NET, including the new timetable and how to purchase a ticket, visit thetram.net
To provide feedback on the enhanced evening timetable trial, email [email protected]