Tramway safety boost as LRSSB moves towards greater independence

In a presentation to industry leaders, George Lowder, Chair of the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board, announced the steps it is taking towards greater independence and stronger sector participation in the LRSSB Board.

Established in 2018 by the sector and its trade body UKTram, the LRSSB has already delivered on a series of high-profile initiatives aimed at reducing tramway safety risks.

Now the two organisations have agreed in principle to new articles of association, and the reconstitution of the LRSSB to increase the involvement of owners, authorities and operators.

Following Mr Lowder’s presentation at the UK Light Rail Conference in Leeds, LRSSB Chief Executive Carl Williams, explained: “We are now pressing ahead with the proposals that put us in an even better position to work on the safety issues that matter most to the sector. These steps will enable us to meet the recommendations made by the Office of Rail and Road, which called for greater transparency and sector representation.

“Over the next few months, we will be working closely with UKTram to finalise new working arrangements and to develop a Memorandum of Agreement with our members. Both are expected to be in place by the end of the year following our annual general meeting in December.

“In the meantime, we will continue consultations with members as we look forward to an exciting new era for our organisation as it continues to evolve in line with the needs of a growing light rail sector.”