Paul's Latest Transport Matters Article
Added 11/12/2009As most readers are probably aware members of the All Party Light Rail group last year held an inquiry into the light rail industry. Over three days having considered over 35 written submissions and having heard from over twenty witnesses, members discussed the issues affecting the development of light rail in the UK.
Our report will shortly be published and will, we hope, stimulate debate about the future development of light rail in this country. Readers wanting to look at the written submissions or the oral evidence considered by us can find them on the PTEG website.
Whilst not wishing to discuss our conclusions prior to the publication of the report; there are nevertheless a number of points that emerged from the inquiry. Firstly since they cancelled several schemes back in 2004 the DfT have shifted their approach. The appraisal system has been changed and they have shown a greater willingness to look at alternative funding methods. As a result, since 2004, over £1 Billion has been approved for new light rail schemes. However the descrepency between those who have got existing schemes and wish to extend and those wishing to start has grown wider and is likely to get worse.
Secondly some of the issues raised in the 2005 select committee report have still not been addressed. Light rail scheme promoters have to find 25% of the cost compared to only 10% for bus or road schemes. The utilities are still getting an excellent deal compared to what happens in other countries. No wonder then they declared themselves satisfied with the existing arrangements and were not prepared to subject themselves to questioning! At the same time newer issues like carbon emissions, health aspects or electrification are only just appearing on the DfT radar. New appraisal schemes are being developed (the one used by Greater Manchester ITA for example) that enable bus, light rail and other modes of transport to be compared on a level playing field. These changes are to be welcomed. What we hope the recommendations in our report do is to stimulate discussion and move the process forward. We will be holding an event in Westminster to launch the report and will make copies available for those who want it.