City trams praised in new report

Nottingham's tram network has been praised in a new report looking at light rail transport.

The Commons Transport Committee found its partnerships between planners and promoters, along with an integrated bus system, was a successful example.

It said it saw a good future for trams if the government offered more help.

However, it was concerned by complaints from traders in Hyson Green who told members that feeder bus services to the tram had replaced direct routes.

Industry benchmark

The praise follows a critical report into light rail services across the UK by the National Audit Office which highlighted a loss of revenue and a lack of passengers.

Pat Armstrong, project leader for NET, which operates the tram service, said: "I have seen the report and it's quite pleasing - it does recognise that light rail is an important part of major cities transport networks for the future.

"Certainly everyone's watching us - we get a huge number of visitors coming to Nottingham to see how we've been doing it.

"The government's listened to us and asked us a lot of questions about how we're doing and what's particular about Nottingham.

"I do think we are being put forward as a standard."