Next step for Coventry VLR
The city council’s cabinet is expected to approve the construction of an 800-metre twin track Very Light Rail demonstrator between the railway station and Coventry University Technology Park on Mile Lane.
To be discussed at cabinet on 16 December, this is the next step in Coventry’s ambition to introduce a transport system that brings some of the benefits of a tram network, with lower impact.
The 800m route, which will run in both directions and in live traffic, marks an important next step following on from a successful first demonstration earlier this year. For this, where 200m of track were laid inside eight weeks, allowing the project team to show utility companies how simple and quick it is to access cables and pipes under the track.
Cllr Jim O’Boyle cabinet member for jobs, regeneration and climate change said, “Coventry Very Light Rail is pioneering transport innovation. It is a cost-effective and efficient alternative to conventional tram systems and we have proven it can be delivered at less than half the cost and in half the time.
“We are on to a real transport game changer here. It will be good for the environment, have no unsightly overhead cables and in the future it has the potential to be autonomous – offering a hop on and hop off service.
“What’s more I think everyone that saw it here, and rode it, can agree that it looked great in the street and gave a quiet and smooth ride. I’m looking forward to seeing it back and providing the chance for even more people to have a go on it.”
At the heart of the project is a track system made up of precast panels which are quick and simple to lay, with no need for deep excavations.
The first full commercial route in the city could be between the railway station and the West Midlands Investment zone centred on Greenpower Park which is set to create a wide range of new jobs.
The aim is then to serve the city with a 12km route connecting that investment zone with the development taking place around Ansty Park, another job-creation hotspot.
This route would also connect the railway station and Pool Meadow bus station with healthcare, education and leisure facilities.
