Students visit NET depot on their way to designing 'tram stop of the future'

The group of Final Year students visited the depot on Wilkinson Street for a briefing by the Keolis engineering team and Operations Manager Neil Cundy. Keolis are part of the Tramlink consortium responsible for the operation, maintenance and on-going expansion of the Nottingham tram system. The insights gained will support students with their work as part of a collaborative interdisciplinary project between NTU Civil Engineering, Product Design, and Property Management and Development students.

During their site visit, the students gained a deeper understanding of tram network operations and key considerations for the design of modern sustainable transport infrastructure. They also received a tour of the facilities including the NET control room, tram maintenance areas and stabling. Senior members of Tramlink and Nottingham City Council were present to answer student questions and to give them advice on their requirements – giving students an insight into the practical challenges and stakeholder consultation behind major design and construction projects.

In this project, the students have been challenged to take an unused tram stop and create a landmark stop to compliment the city’s Southside Development. Among the challenges they need to address are issues of accessibility and security. Students are also asked to consider how they can add social value to the area, integrate with other forms of public transport, and make the stop a showcase for sustainability in the face of climate crisis.

David Russhard, Principal Lecturer in Civil Engineering, who leads the module, said: “Input from industry really makes our projects stand out, and adds incredible depth for our students to explore. We would like to thank everyone at Tramlink, NET and Nottingham City Council for their involvement.”