Hucknall and Bulwell tram operator returning to regular timetable after trial
From Monday, January 26, tram operator Nottingham Express Transit (NET) will be making some key changes to its timetable, following the conclusion of the recent trial of its extended evening schedule.
The update will see the timetable revert to its regular schedule of weekday peak trams running every seven minutes in each direction from the city centre, with trams running up to a maximum of every 15 minutes in the evening.
It replaces the temporary timetable which had been in place since October, and saw trams running every four minutes in each direction of The Forest tram stop, between Highbury Vale and Nottingham Station, with trams beyond those stops running every eight minutes until 11pm.
The enhanced timetable, which had received a positive reception from the public, was originally brought in during the busy Goose Fair period to support the network and its passengers.
The introduction meant the operator could run a more consistent and dependable evening service, keep the city moving after dark and better support Nottingham’s night time economy.
Though the trial has now come to an end, discussions are still ongoing between NET and Nottingham City Council, with a view towards revisiting the possibility of making the temporary trial timetable a permanent fixture.
Sarah Turner, NET managing director, said: “We’re always looking at ways we can improve our service and make a positive impact on the passenger experience, and this trial of the enhanced evening timetable was a great way to do just that.
“Although it’s disappointing this trial has now come to an end, it was still a valuable exercise for us, allowing us to access vital performance and customer data to build on for the future.
“It was also encouraging to see how well it was received by the many locals who use our trams, especially during the busy Goose Fair and festive periods.
"Beyond that, as a Nottingham operator, we’re always really passionate about celebrating all the city has to offer, and that’s never been truer than when it comes to the city’s night time economy.
"Nottingham is brimming with a range of fantastic bars, restaurants and more.
"We’re committed to doing our bit to make it even easier for visitors to travel into the city to take advantage of that offering, and having more frequent trams into the evening was a great way to do that.
“Over the coming months, we look forward to engaging with the council in ongoing discussions regarding the possibility of making the enhanced evening timetable a permanent part of city life.”