The first overnight tram tests on a section of line that will serve one of Nottingham’s most important business parks have been heralded a success.
The arrival of the first tram at ng2 represents another significant step forward for the NET Phase Two project that will see services extended to Chilwell and Clifton.
Trams have already been making trial night-time journeys across the new Karlsruhe Friendship Bridge at Nottingham Railway Station and along part of the Clifton line.
A NET Phase Two project spokesman commented: “We are delighted that trams have now reached ng2, and more extensive testing will take place over the coming weeks before day-time trials begin.
“The final piece of track on the Chilwell line was recently fastened into place, and we can look forward to seeing the arrival of trams further along the route as the testing and commissioning stage of the project gathers pace.”
Councillor Jane Urquhart, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Transportation at Nottingham City Council, said: “The coming of the NET Phase Two trams will be a massive boost for all the employees and also employers on Nottingham’s premier business park. It means we are on the brink of delivering one of the key transport priorities that businesses told us they most wanted.
“These overnight tests of trams along the new route to ng2 are another important indicator that the contractors are completing the construction works and moving on to the next stage of testing and commissioning.
“We do acknowledge that tram works have been disruptive to businesses and commuters in the ng2 area, but with construction coming to an end, we can anticipate the coming of fast, clean, reliable and eco-friendly trams that will make the daily commute easier and quicker for everyone working there.
“The coming of the tram was an important factor for many major companies in choosing to locate offices at ng2 – including household names such as Specsavers, Speedo and VF Northern, the name behind famous brands such as Wrangler, The North Face and Timberland.”