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2019

ow renowned as the industry’s ‘Oscars’, this environmentally-friendly modes that connect with year’s Global Awards saw a packed people of all ages on an emotional level in a way Naudience gather to celebrate another 12 that others just can’t match." months of achievements from across the industry. Jackie Townsend, Managing Director of headline The event was hosted once again by BBC supporter FirstGroup subsidiary Operations broadcaster and journalist Nicholas Owen, offering Limited, commented: “The light rail sector is guests his usual inspiring welcome: “As towns seeing change, with many new entrants and and cities around the world grow and expand, they systems across Europe and the UK. It is great that face serious challenges in terms of congestion, air through sharing and collaboration at events such quality and social mobility. We all know that more as this we can all continue to learn from each other cars, wider roads and bigger downtown car parks and develop this vibrant industry even further, aren’t the answer. We need a new approach – whether it be for innovation, technology or safety – and, wouldn’t you know it, it’s been under our everyone benefits.” noses all the time. The following pages contain all the detail of “Tramway, streetcar, light rail or metro: whatever those inspiring people, projects and products name you choose, these are the safe, efficient, honoured on the night…

SUPPORTED BY Global Light Rail Awards 2019 Special

2019

team of the year Sponsored by The Highly Commended honour in this vacancies and will pay dividends in creating this investment in learning must be built hotly-contested category was presented dedicated teams.” upon to extend the reach of our main line to the HR, Learning and Development The winner was a cross-sector team to penetrate population centres.” Team from Metro for its representing many different organisations The award was collected by Network initiative in partnering with local colleges that have overcome diverse technical and Rail, South Yorkshire Passenger Transport to deliver a new training programme for regulatory challenges – and in many cases Executive and Stagecoach Supertram local candidates who showed promise at had to make it up as they went along in representatives. Steve Cocliff from the interview stage but lacked core skills. creating the UK’s first tram-train scheme. MPT presented the awards. The bespoke four-week course included The judges recognised the challenges Simon Coulthard, Senior Sponsor from dedicated light rail training with depot in delivering this complex project, , said: “We are delighted that visits and driver training. including the setback of losing its principal the Tram-Train team’s hard work and One judge commented: “Things like contractor, Carillion, in the final stages. tenacity has been recognised. This award maths and English can be taught, but The judges said: “Tenacity, pragmatism, is for the many excellent people who put in passion and enthusiasm can’t. Spotting and teamwork got this pathfinder effort to ensure this innovative and talent isn’t easy, but taking the time to scheme across the line in often tough ground-breaking project will bring long develop candidates if they miss a few skills circumstances. Bridging the gap between lasting benefits to passengers in city is a brilliant approach to filling long-term light and main line rail hasn’t been easy, but regions across the country.”

SYPTE, Network Rail and Stagecoach Supertram Winner UK Tram-Train Pilot

highly commended HR, Learning and Development Team

employee of the year Sponsored by The judges gave the Highly Commended highest qualifications in his discipline and in the Scottish capital to bring other team accolade for Employee of the Year to developing new processes and ways of members up to his own high standards. Kenny Ewan of CAF, praising his adaptation working for his organisation – and all with The Employee of the Year winner was of years of knowledge and experience the customer in mind. described as the “young man who keeps a derived from the automotive sector into a The panel was also impressed by his close eye on the cash tin”. Tom Maplethorpe new role working with Edinburgh . leadership and mentoring skills, using his of the Midland Metro Alliance leads the Over the last few years, Mr Ewan has own time to hone his skills and develop target cost-related activities for the five proven to be an invaluable member of new processes that benefit his team and major light rail expansion projects in the its rolling stock team, achieving the ultimately, the passengers of the tramway UK's West Midlands, keeping them in check and on schedule. Praised by his employers for his communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills, their testimonial said: “He provides a rare blend of being able to integrate both continuity and innovation… if you want to know how the Alliance works, just go and ask Tom.” The judges also paid tribute to Tom’s ‘encyclopedic knowledge of the detail of the schemes he’s working on’, adding: “Holding the reins to such a huge beast, and keeping it in check, for someone relatively new to Winner the industry is a massive job.” highly commended Tom Maplethorpe Steve Cocliff from MPT joined Nicholas Colas Rail / Midland Metro Alliance Kenny Ewan – CAF Owen to present the category honours.

462 / december 2019 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org QR codes QR code 1 – Pomona – Cleveland Bridge

QR codes QR code 2 – Crumpsall QR code 1 – Pomona – ClevelandWith Bridge absolute alignment of our three partners MPT continues to deliver the design & construction of the multi-million pound Metrolink expansion with the Trafford Park Line Extension

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Trafford Park Line QR code 4 – TPL 24

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www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org december 2019 / 463 Global Light Rail Awards 2019 Special

2019

Best Customer Initiative Sponsored by Winner KeolisAmey Docklands – DLR Discovery

highly commended Keolis Dijon Mobilités – Open Payments

Here, the judges are looking for initiatives an online portal allows them to track their professional guides providing a running that have a tangible impact on the life of journeys and print receipts. This may seem commentary of the fascinating area of East the everyday passenger, making journeys straightforward, but what impressed the London in which the network operates. easier, more comfortable and efficient. judges was the take-up. The six-month The days were a spectacular success. The Highly Commended prize therefore target was achieved in just a few weeks Thousands took part in the tours – many went to the team from Keolis Dijon for and in March this year, two-thirds of tram of them children – with takeaway goodie its 'Open Payments' platform that has passengers were using the new system. bags included. A flood of social media transformed travel in the French city, The winner, however, was another traffic was generated from those who took introducing a whole new demographic operator from the Keolis stable, this time part and client was to the benefits of travel on its 20km in London. KeolisAmey Docklands was delighted with the response. (12-mile) two-line tramway. The platform praised for its ‘DLR Discovery Days’ that Richard Brown, Managing Director of guarantees travellers the lowest fare if saw an additional 93 trains added into the North Star Consultancy, helped present they pay by bank card or smartphone, and busy weekend schedules in 2018, with the honours. Best Environmental and Sustainability Initiative In introducing this category, host Nicholas including unprecedented levels of soil Owen said: “The term ‘climate emergency’ sampling (500-plus tests). If it couldn’t be has now entered our everyday lexicon, and repurposed for construction, it has helped more and more extreme events related to create more attractive landscapes or climate change are causing chaos all over enhanced local community projects. the world. Light rail is part of the solution. New ways of working with a local Promoters shout about how their services contractor have seen zero landfill, with are emissions-free at point of use, and food waste turned into fertiliser for local this year sees another crop of innovative farms and biogas also sold back to the submissions taking that commitment to grid. Over 5000 lorry journeys were saved Winner sustainability even further.” as part of this programme, reducing the Highly Commended was the entry from use of virgin materials to the minimum. MPT – Making an Impact without leaving a mark KeolisAmey Metrolink. In just eight months, ‘Making an Impact without making a the operator has seen: a 91% carbon mark’ was described by the judges as reduction thanks to new waste compactors; “outstanding”, and a lesson to all in how a 5% reduction in energy used overall; and to build a tramway to the highest quality a new vegetation and biodiversity plan with while also maximising sustainability. network-wide digital mapping, with its depot Andy Smith, MPT Project Manager, said: waste grounds converted into gardens and “It is great to be recognised by the industry sustainable urban wildlife habitats. for all the hard work that the Trafford Park The winning submission from the MPT Line team has put into the project. The consortium was described as “winning team has been committed to delivering the war on waste”. During construction this prestigious project whilst maximising of the GBP350m, 5.5km (3.4-mile) environmental benefits and building highly commended Trafford Park Line Metrolink extension, positive relationships along the way with KeolisAmey Metrolink there were over 30 recycling initiatives, our local community.” Creating an environmentally-conscious culture

464 / december 2019 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Significant Safety Initiative Sponsored by

This year the judges deliberated over with staff, unions, industry experts and another fine crop of entries, showing academics, the outcome is already an just how seriously safety is being taken average 39% reduction in fatigue-related across the industry. Stephen Luke, Mott events, a 52% fall in heavy braking events MacDonald LRT Planning & Practice arising from driver error and a 300% Leader, helped present the awards. increase in self-reporting. The judges Highly Commended was the team from praised these results as a sign of a “culture West Midlands Metro for its approach to that has fundamentally shifted from one of dealing with ‘near misses’ on its network. uncertainty to one of trust”. The reporting of such incidents is all too Its fatigue management programme is often delayed, it said, until the end of a such a ground-breaking initiative that it is driver’s shift because of other duties and already being adopted around the world. the fear of lengthy forms to fill in. Transport operators from every continent This operator has employed a simple have come to see it in action and it is even ‘off the shelf’ application that allows real- being shared with the UK’s Royal Air Force. time logging of safety concerns, delivering TOL also recognises that 'wellness' Winner immediate updates to team members out doesn’t end when staff go home. This new Tram Operations Limited on the network. Photos of hazards can be culture has helped identify underlying Total Fatigue Management added and geo-tagged to identify potential health conditions in a handful of staff incident ‘hot spots’. Such initiatives will only and seen the operator help line up proper increase in value with network expansion. medical treatment, while a staff open However, the winner took the top day has encouraged the sharing of these honours for building upon a technology lessons with the families of staff. recognised at the 2018 ceremony, leading Jackie Townsend, TOL Managing to a new class-leading and “simply Director, said: "There has been so much brilliant” staff welfare programme. commitment and dedication from each Replacing historic management member of the company in managing practices evolved from the bus industry individual fatigue and well-being and the and old-fashioned working hours criteria support that has been given to each of used in heavy rail, operator our colleagues. I could not be more proud Tram Operations Limited (TOL) recognises that TOL has been recognised for this highly commended that everyone is different. Consulting prestigious award." West Midlands Metro – Driving Network Safety

Connecting Supplier of the Year communities AWeD are proud T to supportO theCOME Global Light Rail Awards demonstrating our light rail expertise. For more than 40 years, we’ve been helping our clients deliver efficient, affordable and environmentally friendly light rail systems, making travel easier for all.

mottmac.com

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org december 2019 / 465 Global Light Rail Awards 2019 Special

2019 Project of the Year Under €50m Project of the Year recognises inspiring, innovative or ground-breaking activities Winner Newcastle Light Rail, NSW around the world, and in the under EUR50m section the judges chose to honour two very different projects. The Highly Commended entry preserves an important historical legacy and secures a well-loved tourist icon, the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway. Threatened with closure in recent years after 140 years of service, a new project to relay the rails along Douglas Promenade not only secures its future but also paves the way for potential extension to the Island’s electric tramway service. The project is also sustainable, using rails from the UK's cancelled project. is at the core of an AUD650m (EUR400m) The judges said: “Taking the horse regeneration programme. The 2.7km tramway away from Douglas seafront is as (1.7-mile) Newcastle Light Rail scheme unimaginable as removing the tower from was built in just 18 months, opening both . We’re delighted to see that its on budget and ahead of schedule. immediate future has been secured and The honoured project relates to the that we may see Manx Electric Railway introduction of the catenary-free light services on the seafront in the future.” rail service, bringing the state-of-the-art The award was collected by Alistair technology to a whole new continent. The Burroughs of Isle of Man contractor tramway has been a huge success since Burroughs Stewart Associates and its opening, helping Newcastle pursue its UKTram Technical Manager Craig O’Brien. aims of revitalising a former coal city into a The winner couldn’t be further removed thriving commercial and tourist centre. in terms of either technology or geography. For its part in the development of the highly commended The introduction of the new tramway to new tramway, the award was collected by Douglas Bay Horse Tramway Renovation Newcastle (New South Wales, Australia) members of the team from CAF. Project of the Year Over €50m Sponsored by Highly Commended was a project mired the judges said of the 43km (27-mile) in politics, complex regulatory challenges three-line Jabodebek LRT project, noting and construction and technical delays the challenges of delivering a fully-elevated beyond the control of the determined rail system in just 24 months. Entrant partnership that was trying to deliver it. Colas Rail described installing over 12 000 The UK Tram-Train Pilot team members tonnes of running rail and 92km (57 miles) from South Yorkshire Passenger Transport of rail on a construction site 30 Executive, Network Rail and Stagecoach metres in the air for virtually its entire length Supertram were praised for their resilience and in confined working environments that and determination in getting this pathfinder allow only four-hour delivery windows for project off the blocks in October 2018. key components and equipment. Ridership on the route from Sheffield Perhaps more impressively, Colas Rail Cathedral to Rotherham Parkgate has has had to create a new 1100-strong Winner just surpassed a million journeys, and labour force in a country with little to no it has also achieved a 100% customer experience in tracklaying or third rail, and Jabodebek LRT Project, Jakarta satisfaction rating in independent provide expert guidance to a client that Transport Focus audits. has never managed a rail project before. Dan Jarvis, Mayor of Sheffield City Virtual reality has been employed to train Region, said: “I’m delighted that the staff in site conditions before the viaducts tram-train has been awarded this Global had been built, and military-grade planning Light Rail Award. It’s great to see that has seen this project in one of the world’s tram-train is now not only a huge success most congested cities stick to timetable. in its own right but could be used as a The judges commented: “Everyone is blueprint for similar schemes across the UK watching this one closely as a masterclass – once again putting innovation sparked here in logistics and urban rail construction.” in South Yorkshire on the national map.” The award was collected from Alejandro highly commended The winning project lies in Jakarta, Moreno of the Midland Metro Alliance by Indonesia. “Talk about ambitious,” is what Iain Anderson of Colas Rail. UK Tram-Train Pilot

466 / december 2019 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Outstanding Winner West Midlands Metro – Westside Extension Engineering Achievement Two entries that both mark significant ‘firsts’ were recognised for 2019’s Outstanding Engineering Achievement. Highly Commended was a project covered extensively in TAUT – the combined tramway

and tram-train network in Aarhus, Denmark. Aarhus Letbane So many challenges existed with a project of city’s historic Grade 1-listed Town Hall. this scale, not least the creation of a whole The next phase will see the route cross set of national standards as nothing like this one of the busiest city centre roads you’ll had ever been undertaken before find anywhere in the UK. The first tramway section opened in The first tests were carried out in August 2017, but the significant phase that the between Grand Central and Victoria Square panel recognised this year is completion of – the first time a UK tram had operated on a much wider project: extension of services a purpose-built catenary-free line. over a former railway to Grenaa to offer For the first stage of the West Midlands seamless travel over a 100km+ interurban highly commended Aarhus Letbane Metro Westside Extension, the trophy was route. It has transformed mobility across collected by the team from Transport For the western side of the country. Last year the judges’ recognised CAF West Midlands, West Midlands Metro and The winner was a late entry, but one that for pioneering a new vehicle solution the Midland Metro Alliance. marked an entirely different set of ‘firsts’. for ‘wire-free’ sections. This year they Alejandro Moreno, Director of the The impact of apparatus recognised the efforts of the teams Midland Metro Alliance, said: “Construction on the urban realm has become a major building the new routes they will run on. on the Westside Metro extension has consideration for new tramways for over 100 They couldn’t have picked a more really started to gather pace, with all years. With an increased focus on improving difficult route to start with – although track now installed for the first phase of aesthetics, and with streets ever-more short, the line to ’s Centenary the extension to . I am congested with utilities, the need for new Square has tight curves, narrow streets, delighted the team’s hard work has been solutions has never been more pressing. steep gradients, and also runs past the recognised in this way.”

The Midland Metro Alliance is a We often have exciting career team of planning, design and opportunities for those who construction specialists build a share our values and passion to number of new tram extensions on extend the tram network across behalf of Transport for West the region. Midlands.

The alliance comprises of the West and construction specialists Midlands Combined Authority, which Colas Rail - supported by owns West Midlands Metro; a sub-alliance partners Colas Ltd, consortium of design experts from Egis, Barhale, Bouygues UK and Tony Gee, Pell Frischmann; Auctus Management Group.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org december 2019 / 467 Global Light Rail Awards 2019 Special

2019

Technical Innovation of Sponsored by The Year (Rolling Stock) Engineers and suppliers from around the Project BRAINSTORM world battled it out in the 2019 Technical Winner Innovation of The Year categories. In the Rolling Stock category, the first honour was given to Keolis Dijon for its new rail brush system, developed in-house and fitted to a small number of the system’s Citadis low-floor trams to dramatically improve traction as well as reducing braking issues and wheel flats on Dijon's 20km (12-mile) tramway. Host Nicholas Owen commented: “Autumn and winter create unique challenges for highly commended transport operators. Night-time track Keolis Dijon Mobilités - Tram Sleet Brush sweepers are effective, but slow, so what do you do during the day? The winner was described by the and WMG has pioneered new ways to both “In the old days, dirty and slippery rails judges as “truly ground-breaking” and reduce costs and speed up the process. were dealt with via dedicated works cars; “what the industry has been waiting for Small sections or components can be modern systems often don’t have that luxury. for decades.” They were describing the made easily, and the team has created a The clever bit is that geo-location software Project BRAINSTORM initiative that is prototype spaceframe that complies with ensures it is only used where needed. developing modular, composite structures all structural and regulatory requirements These details are uploaded to a central for lightweight construction of rail vehicles – and is so light it can be lifted by hand! system, creating a digital map so everyone for the scheme. The replacement of damaged sections is can see what’s been cleaned and when.” Although composite materials have quick and easy, and it can be recycled too. Two trams were fitted as a trial in historically been regarded as expensive The judges loved this submission for its October 2018, followed by two more and complex to produce, the cross-sector innovation, vision and ambition to create this year. The operator in Lyon was so team of Far Composites, Composite not only new manufacturing processes, but impressed it has also adopted the solution. Braiding, Transport Design International potentially a whole new industry.

Technical Innovation of The Sponsored by

( ) Mott MacDonald & MPT Year Infrastructure Winner TPL EMC innovation In the Infrastructure section, two UK MPT and consultant Mott MacDonald initiatives took home the prizes. for its innovative solution in dealing with The first was given to an R&D project electromagnetic interference (EMI) on the from British Steel that addresses the new Trafford Park Line Metrolink extension. serious issue of embedded rail breaks. The line runs close to a manufacturer As well as concerns related to safety, of sensitive scientific equipment, and the disruption and lost revenue, broken risk of electromagnetic fields generated by sections of rail can be expensive to remedy. passing trams seemed to pose two options There has been a significant spike in – move the line, or move the factory. instances across the UK in recent years – As the typical EMI output of a tramway disturbingly in some installations no more was around 2000 times more than the than five years old. One system noted in manufacturer could accept, a solution was the entry’s testimonials has experienced 20 needed to reduce magnetic emissions to incidents in recent years, with repair bills lower than any new UK tramway project. running to hundreds of thousands of pounds. The solution involved the creation of an Metallurgical research from British advanced new two-stage simulation tool to Steel has shown great promise in finding model hundreds of operational scenarios, long-lasting solutions that have been but also an electrical design to dramatically described by some asset managers as of reduce the magnetic fields at source. major benefit to the whole industry. For its The result ensured that tramway research into residual stress in grooved rail construction could continue on time and on aluminothermic welds, Dr Stephen Lewis budget – with both sides very happy. collected the award. James Hammett, UKTram Managing highly commended The top honour was given to a joint Director, presented the awards in both British Steel – Investigation of Residual entry from Metrolink construction partner Technical Innovation categories. Stress in Grooved Rail Aluminothermic Welds

468 / december 2019 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org The Single Voice of the Light Rail Industry Reach us at a 16 Summer Lane, Birmingham p 0121 214 7107 e [email protected] w www.uktram.com

UK Tram brings together all organisations with an interest Communicate in the future development of light rail in the United Promoting Best Practice, transferring knowledge Kingdom, ensuring it remains a viable, cost-effective and expertise and driving innovation and and consistently improving transport option. technical excellence.

As a not-for-profit, membership body, we represent Membership all light rail and ‘other guided transport’ systems Our membership takes in organisations from all in , Wales, Scotland, Ireland and the sides of the industry from engineers to operators. Isle of Man. This includes second generation tramways, metros and subways (excluding ), very light rail and Innovative personal systems as well as the To promote the adoption of Light Rail as an effective, reliable, environmentally sustainable and cost many heritage tramways serving the tourism effective way to meet the needs of modern transport. sector. Global Light Rail Awards 2019 Special

2019

SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Alistair Gordon, CEO of Keolis UK, joined host Nicholas Owen to present Winner Mott MacDonald three awards in the Supplier of the Year category, recognising those organisations that keep our industry moving – with innovative products, invaluable advice and consultancy services, and cutting-edge research. The first company honoured is more widely-known as a rail or track component supplier, but the judges recognised that where British Steel is driving real change and adding value to systems around the world is through its research and development. Already recognised earlier in the evening for one example of its work in this capacity in the Technical Innovation of the Year (Infrastructure) category, one senior engineer commented: “They’re really clever guys and girls and you can tell that sorting out issues is as much a passion as it is a day job. They give so much time to the industry as a whole in coming up with solutions outside of ‘regular hours’ and really go above and beyond.” The company has faced a tremendously challening 12 months, but its work in helping to improve safety, longevity and highly commended efficiency was recognised by the judges British Steel with a Highly Commended at the GLRAs. A second such trophy was bestowed upon another company well-known for its role in employing cutting-edge technology to improve efficiency and safety. Ian Rowe Associates (IRAL – better known to many as Tram-Pro) provides world-leading training and simulation solutions – but it was recognised at the Global Light Rail Awards for far more than just its advanced technology. The judges recognised that such systems can often be a tricky sell, but what makes IRAL so special is that it places the end user – i.e. the tram driver or control room operator – at the very heart of its product development. Testimonials from happy customers used phrases such as “amazingly realistic”, “invaluable” and “a major step forward in our training”. It is no wonder then that it highly commended provides its systems to most UK tramways, Ian Rowe Associates as well as an increasingly international client base. teams in the world when it comes to light and thorough research with a keen eye on But the winner is a company whose rail planning, modelling and engineering. the importance of keeping all stakeholders expertise, wisdom and influence covers It is also praised by clients far and wide happy. The judges said: "They are so just about every discipline associated with for constantly innovating and finding important to so many schemes around transport and urban design. Having worked new solutions, focusing on people and the world, I’m not sure what the industry on systems all over the world in the last through its dedicated approach to getting would do without them." 12 months, Mott MacDonald is no stranger the job done – often in time-pressured Commendations this year came from to the Global Light Rail Awards stage, circumstances. cities such as Vancouver, Amsterdam and having taken this award home many times It achieves this both through the Birmingham – including phrases such before. The international consultancy is application of technology in new and as, “the quality of their service has been recognised for having some of the best innovative ways and also for its dedicated excellent” and “keep up the great work!”

470 / december 2019 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org MANUFACTURER Winner CAF OF THE YEAR A shortlist of three entrants in this category included CAF, Škoda and Stadler. It was a close call, but the judges’ gave a Highly Commended to the latter for its testimonials from operators, maintainers and passengers alike as to the quality of its products. In a world of templated designs, Stadler doesn’t respect traditional boundaries and has been successful due to its willingness to build the unusual when around the world. What also impressed others don’t, or can’t, fulfil a customer’s the judges is CAF's commitment to requirements. sustainability with mandated requirements Particular praise was given to the to suppliers to use environmentally- attention to detail of its designers and responsible and recycled materials, and a engineers, with one judge describing the claim that 98% of the content of each new new trains for the as vehicle can either be recycled or reclaimed. “simply beautifully built.” One judge said: “No nonsense, no fuss, The award was collected on behalf of just excellent service. Be it light rail, heavy Stadler by UK & Ireland Marketing and highly commended Stadler Rail rail, or even buses now, they have won the Sales Director Ralf Warwel. respect of everyone they have supplied Taking the top honour for 2019 is a Many of the new trains for Wales will be their services to.” company that has grown into one of the built at a new facility in Newport, and Collecting the award for CAF, UK world’s dominant players in the light and since the Global Light Rail Awards it has Director Richard Garner said: “We are urban rail sector – CAF. been announced that CAF has secured the thrilled with our two wins this year and In the past 12 months the Spanish contract for further Urbos trams for the particularly the title of Manufacturer of the manufacturer has won new orders for UK’s West Midlands Metro (see TAUT 983). Year. It is fantastic that CAF’s reputation as Liège, Oslo, Lund, Freiburg, Barcelona, It is arguably the leader in onboard a leader in the global rail industry has once and London’s . energy storage, supplying solutions to cities again been acknowledged and rewarded.”

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org december 2019 / 471 Global Light Rail Awards 2019 Special

2019

MOST IMPROVED Winner Nottingham Express Transit SYSTEM This year’s awards brought some oustanding entries for the Most Improved System category – and another tough choice for the judging panel. However after much deliberation, they felt that this year’s Highly Commended award should go to a light rail line that has now long since shaken off its difficult birth and seen another year of incredible success. has recorded a further 10% leap in passenger numbers over the past 12 months, and increased services to cater for this rising demand, as well as running unique customer offers and posting another year of record profits. In addition, the trust and confidence in the operator shown by the City of Edinburgh Council has brought the transfer of full responsibility for maintenance. Last year’s joint winner of the Operator of the Year award has now comprehensively proved any remaining early doubters wrong and is due to expand from its initial limits with the opening of its line to the port of Leith and Newhaven in 2022. However, snatching the top spot by a whisker, this year’s winning system is another UK network, but one with a longer pedigree. Nottingham Express Transit (NET) has just celebrated its 15th birthday and has helped regenerate and transform the East Midlands city it serves. NET is now growing its patronage at three times the national average, as well as bursting with a range of ideas to attract more people to leave their cars behind and to travel by tram instead. Ticketing initiatives include discounted season tickets and special school holiday fares, as well as discounts to sports matches and concerts across the city. This year has even seen a wedding party choose to take the tram! highly commended Edinburgh Trams What’s more, this is a system that has invested millions in track renewal and system now covers 32km (20 miles) and worthy winner of this year’s award." upgrades and fleet refurbishment of its three lines that serve traffic generators Paul Robinson, Director and General oldest (and locally-built) 15 Incentro such as Nottingham Trent University and Manager of NET operator Keolis vehicles over the past 12 months, and has the Queen’s Medical Centre, while sharing Nottingham, explained: “This year has also managed to halve the amount, not a central core through the centre. been a fantastic one for the network, which only of accidents, but also ‘near misses’. There is more planned for the future, has recorded record-breaking patronage Earlier this year it also appointed a local too – not least the possibility of a new figures, exceptional customer satisfaction supplier to deliver sustainable power western line that would be key to regional ratings and significant investment. supplies that both save money as well as mobility if the UK’s opens “To be recognised by colleagues across making the system fully ‘green’. as planned to a new station serving both the wider sector is particularly heartening All this is against a background of Nottingham and Derby at Toton. and reflects the hard work of everyone at expansion in 2015 that more than doubled Host Nicholas Owen commented: "NET NET to do their best for customers. We’ll the size of a tramway which opened in started from a positive position to begin never become complacent though and this 2004 – something that also heralded a with, but with so much going on the judges latest accolade will inspire us to further similar increase in the tram fleet with the felt that this now mature tramway has enhance a world-class tram service that arrival of 22 Alstom Citadis vehicles. The moved to a new level of excellence. It is a the people of Nottingham can be proud of.”

472 / december 2019 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Operator of the Year Sponsored by Winner KeolisAmey Docklands

No fewer than nine separate entrants few statistics. These include 996 of every have set the standards for everyone else. joined the race to take home the accolade 1000 services on time; no serious injuries They are not just the best light rail operator of 2019 Operator of the Year. to passengers or staff in four years; a 34% overall in the UK, but quite possibly the Highly Commended in this competitive fall in staff assaults, with team members best transport operator, full-stop.” field was an organisation that had the best now wearing body-worn cameras; and that Alistair Gordon, CEO of Keolis UK passenger satisfaction scores in the most more than 60% of waste is now recycled. (which makes up KeolisAmey Docklands recent survey by Transport Focus – not These achievements would be special together with maintainer Amey), said: only for any tram or light rail operator, under any circumstances, what makes “Keolis currently delivers one out of every but the best of any transport undertaking them even more so is that the DLR is two light rail journeys in the UK and is measured. The report contained a having to fight harder than ever to maintain leading the way in delivering world-class significant and all too rare line that its 99%+ performance while keeping going networks that offer speed, convenience anyone would be delighted to have written what is now life-expired kit. It means that and reliability to passengers. We’re pleased about them: “Sample size of not satisfied the prospects for performance once the that our work across all of our businesses passengers too small to report”. new equipment has arrived are even better. has been recognised in such a way at the That was not the only reason for its The judges said that this organisation’s Global Light Rail Awards. success. Blackpool Transport Services also “success is neither luck nor chance. It’s The awards in this category were runs a complex system using heritage and effort, commitment, and its employees, presented by TAUT Editor Simon Johnston. modern trams, as well as its town’s buses. It is a key investor in people and the local highly commended Blackpool Transport Services community and, even more remarkably, is the second-highest rated attraction in the area on TripAdvisor. That achievement is no doubt helped by the fact that this operator still keeps vintage vehicles running that have been an integral part of the experience of visiting this seaside town for generations. However, the winner was an organisation on a very different scale. The Operator of the Year for 2019 was named as KeolisAmey Docklands, operator of the driverless light metro that serves the eastern areas of the UK capital, including its vital financial sector around Canary Wharf. Operating a transport system in a busy capital is no easy job – but the success of the DLR can be easily demonstrated by a

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org december 2019 / 473 Global Light Rail Awards 2019 Special

2019

VISION OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Vision of the Year recognises people and organisations who strive to create a better future. Creative, inspirational and imaginative, with a sharp focus on the issues that affect us all. The first of two Highly Commended honours for 2019 went to SYSTRA for its framework and analysis of the application of autonomous light and urban rail technology. Following detailed consultation with operators, manufacturers and system suppliers, this important research has rounded up the trends and technologies with some fascinating insight. This considered examination of the technical, regulatory, safety and socio-economic issues is an important piece of work for anyone looking at the possibilities for further automation of urban public transport. Also honoured was an authority and operator with a shared ambition to become ‘the best’ light rail network in the world. Shared commitments, transparency and honesty are at the centre of a far- Australia’s Light Rail Vision Winner reaching three-year vision – as well as,

JUDGES’ SPECIAL AWARD Sponsored by A prize with particularly special status is the Judges’ Special Award, presented on the night by Paul Rowen, Chair of the Light Rail Transit Association and Tramforward. The recipient was deemed to represent “the very best in human behaviour” – and the polar opposite of those whose actions he bravely stepped in to stop. A dedicated and selfless tram driver on the Greater network, Jan Svacina put his own safety at risk to save someone from a truly awful situation. Spotting a ferocious attack taking place on a platform, Jan brought his service to a stop, leapt out of his cab and confronted the attackers. Meanwhile, his passengers were banging on the tram windows, shouting and gesturing in an attempt to scare them off. Thankfully their combined efforts worked – Winner Jan Svacina and although the victim lay severely injured on the platform, he was miraculously still Jan’s selfless actions showed great “A proud family man, with strong values, alive. Although subsequently hospitalised judgment in balancing the safety of both Jan will always put himself forward for for many months, fortunately he was later his customers and himself and actively shift changes and activities where he able to return home. intervening to save a stranger’s life. He can represent the organisation. He is an The scale and horror of the attack is also diligently supported the police’s amazing asset to both our operation and demonstrated by the fact that some of the enquiries – which eventually led to the three the industry as a whole.” CCTV footage was deemed too shocking perpetrators being sentenced to a combined Those gathered for the Global Light Rail to be released. However, 30 seconds of 16 years in prison. Awards ceremony at London’s Honourable the film of the attack was circulated in the Jan’s bosses at KeolisAmey Metrolink Artillery Company gave this brave and press and by police in an attempt to catch said: “He epitomises all the attributes we selfless gentleman a thoroughly deserved the assailants. all aspire to. standing ovation.

474 / december 2019 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org highly commended SYSTRA VISION OF THE YEAR Automated and Autonomous PT framework most importantly of all, ‘thinking like a passenger’. So, a second Highly Commended for 2019 went to Greater Manchester Metrolink, a network that is preparing to carry another eight million passengers in the next few years, and which has a comprehensive plan for investment in new infrastructure, rolling stock, more staff, and further reducing its carbon footprint, crime and anti-social behaviour. However, the winning Vision of The Year highly commended award went not to an operator or supplier, Transport for Greater Manchester & but to a remarkable alliance of authorities KeolisAmey Metrolink – Being ‘the best’ within the political sphere. The decision of the judges recognised opened this year alone (Sydney Metro rail is not just for big cities. LRT has a the superb support and commitment to Northwest and new LRT lines in Newcastle useful role in medium-sized settlements sustainable transport demonstrated by the and Canberra), with more to come. that already have good quality heavy rail federal and local governments in Australia. This is a country that has used LRT commuter lines. The public consultation They praised its actions that include to drive an unheard-of modal shift from work on such schemes has been ring-fencing billions of dollars for rail-based cars to high-quality public transport and outstanding and should be cloned by other urban schemes, opening new systems at that clearly recognises the great job that places promoting new schemes.” record pace, and bold planning initiatives tramways and metros do in tackling climate The award was collected from Iain that hand over road space for LRT, cycling change, congestion and pollution. Anderson, Colas Rail’s Managing Director and pedestrians and to create true multi- The submission noted: “Local and – Urban, by Australian Deputy High modal networks. Three new systems have national authorities recognise that light Commissioner, Matt Anderson.

AWARD WINNING RAILWAY SPECIALISTS There are many exciting opportunities that lie ahead in creating tomorrow’s railway. WE SPECIALISE IN: • LIGHT/METRO LINES • ROLLING STOCK REFURBISHMENT • TRAMWAYS AND MAINTENANCE • FREIGHT OPERATOR • MULTIDISCIPLINARY PROJECTS • TRACK LAYING, RENEWAL AND • CONTROL AND COMMUNICATION MAINTENANCE SYSTEMS • OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE • HIGH SPEED LINES OF ON TRACK PLANT • ENGINEERING • HIGH VOLTAGE AND TRACTION POWER • ELECTRIFICATION AND SIGNALLING

WWW.COLASRAIL.COM

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www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org december 2019 / 475 Global Light Rail Awards 2019 Special

2019

Rising Star Sponsored by Another particularly special category at the Global Light Rail Awards is that of the Winner Steve Mabey – KeolisAmey Metrolink Rising Stars – those young professionals who are changing the way we do business, and who motivate others around them and act as role models for people looking at making a career in this vibrant and exciting industry. Given the quality of entrants this is also an extremely challenging award to decide upon – because the judges wanted everyone who took part to win. Highly Commended for 2019 was someone who plays a vital role in collating and analysing the data that helps to drive key decision-making within her organisation. She has been described by fellow team members as having a keen eye for niggling issues and spotting trends that cause issues across her network. An important member of a team that has introduced an industry-leading staff welfare programme, her fatigue-based rostering has helped cut incidents by 80%. What’s more, her ‘hot spot’ maps play a central role at the heart of the business, and her new approach to daily conference calls with various departments ensures that issues are promptly reported and remedied just as efficiently too. Praise indeed comes from her manager, who describes her as “an inspiration to us all.” The first trophy in this category was presented to Mariya Vacheva, Performance Manager at Tram Operations Limited, the organisation that runs the London Trams network in the UK capital. However even in a close contest somebody has to win… and the person who ultimately took home the top award this year is a former driver who now manages the smooth running of his busy network, minimising disruption and putting the customer’s safe onward travel at the very heart of his decision-making. In an ideal world, all tram services highly commended Mariya Vacheva – Tram Operations Limited would run perfectly to the timetable. However as any transport operator would and preparation, but a specific example front with clear and regular customer attest, real life is not like that. And when of this dedicated employee having shown communications updates for a network things go wrong, that is when you see just noteworthy calm and resolve while under that had been effectively cut in half – how good a system and its staff really are. extreme pressure. while at the same time continuing to Steve Mabey of Greater Manchester It was New Year’s Eve 2018 in central manage the rest of system with a small operator KeolisAmey Metrolink has taken Manchester, and three people had been team on one of the busiest and most input from staff and passengers to quite attacked by an assailant with a knife. Aside prominent nights of the year. literally rewrite the rulebook on disruption, from the obvious horror of that situation, Transport for Greater Manchester’s with the result being an invaluable guide within minutes the light rail system that Head of Metrolink had this worthy praise to for all employees of what is now the UK’s now provides a vital spider’s web of links give: “Nobody likes to have a crisis on their largest light rail network. It includes clear across its region had lost most of its network, but when the phone rings and it’s guidance for a variety of scenarios, and bus services running to and from the north of Steve on the other end, I know Metrolink is maps to help passengers continue their city. At that point Mr Mabey stepped up to in good hands.” journeys, as well as fares guides, tram stop what was a monumental challenge, with The Rising Star Star awards were addresses and useful phone numbers. quick-thinking and impeccable calm. presented by ColTram Managing Director Yet what really impressed the judges Handling the incident with sensitivity, Colin Robey and Mainspring Managing was not that worthy piece of planning respect and care, he led from the Director Matt Johnston.

476 / december 2019 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Special Recognition A familiar face to many in the industry, Geoff Inskip has taken a step back over the past year following nearly three decades of driving the light rail agenda. His work includes fighting the crucial battles to really bring trams to the UK Government’s attention, back in the days when light rail wasn’t half as fashionable as it is now. From holding key roles in the early development of Metrolink in Manchester, he then took the job of Director General and then Chief Executive at Centro – now Transport for West Midlands – in 2006. A skilled operator at convincing the powers-that-be to invest in sustainable transport, Geoff became the driving force in setting up the current GBP1.5bn (EUR1.7bn) expansion package for West Midlands Metro that is now in the process of being delivered. Working at both national and international levels, Geoff also spent many Geoff Inskip years as the guiding hand of industry body UKTram, serving as its Chairman until his retirement this summer. As a Authorities, he has also given useful advice After such a significant career, Vice-President of UITP and President of to authorities all over the world for their Mr Inskip’s influence will undoubtedly be the European Metropolitan Transport own light rail projects. felt for many years to come.

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Heavyweights in light rail...

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Dinner at the Roundhouse

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org december 2019 / 477 KeolisAmey Metrolink MD Aline Frantzen and Edinburgh Trams Chair Charlene Wallace

LRTA Campaigns Chair Jim Harkins Keolis teams from Dijon, London, Manchester and and guests on the Nottingham all celebrated success at the 2019 Awards Assocation's table

The event's top table featured judges and invited guests from around the world Host Nicholas Owen with the Global Light Rail Awards’ Rising Stars Mark the date in your diary...

7 October 2020 London

2020 www.lightrailawards.com

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478 / december 2019 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org