It was an unfortunate metaphor for the lack of proper investment in the Croydon Trams network over decades that, on Saturday night, large sections were shut down early for “essential” engineering works (it is always “essential”). Transport for London is about to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the tram network.
The trams were the result of some quite visionary, and rare, local government work, with cross-party co-operation in the 1990s between Labour’s council leader Mary Walker and the Tory who succeeded her, Peter (now Lord) Bowness, working together to get crucial legislation passed.
And, after the weekend’s reminder of the network’s and rolling stock’s age, now Transport for London is celebrating 25 years of London’s 21st Century trams and “the network’s support of the growth and development of south London”, with an anniversary poster campaign.
London’s trams had been swept away in a rush for modernity (or buses) in 1952, before modern trams were introduced in 2000 to transform and reconnect communities from Wimbledon to Beckenham, to Mitcham and New Addington, re-establishing vital transport links and reducing congestion.
TfL has managed the services since 2007 and the network now carries more than 17million customers every year.
“The entire fleet is already fully electric, reducing emissions and supporting a cleaner, greener London, and step-free access is available throughout the network,” TfL says.
“Looking ahead to the next 25 years, planned improvements for London Trams include new vehicles, subject to funding, with multi-use areas, mobile charging points and real-time travel information.
“The trams will also feature the latest safety technologies, as part of TfL’s Vision Zero strategy.”
To mark the anniversary, an eye-catching poster celebrating London Trams will launch later this month as part of a series of 25th anniversary posters for TfL, which shine a spotlight on the transformative improvements and innovations that have enhanced customers’ lives over the past 25 years.
TfL’s Trish Ashton said, “The London Trams network has really transformed travel in south London, linking areas together and helping people make the most of this part of the capital.
“In the coming years we’re looking forward to building on our work to make journeys even more comfortable and easy to navigate.”
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