Nottingham Express Transit named as joint light rail project of the year

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During the high profile 2012 Light Rail Awards event in London, Nottingham Express Transit (NET), which includes Alstom as a partner, was named joint UK Project of the Year.

The accolade follows the award by Nottingham City Council in December 2011 of the contract to both extend and operate NET to the Tramlink Nottingham Consortium. The Tramlink Nottingham consortium members are Alstom, Vinci Investments (a UK subsidiary of Vinci PLC), Keolis and Wellglade (owners of local bus operator Trent Barton), Meridiam and OFI Infravia as financial investors.

The project is to build and operate two new tram lines, expanding the existing network by 17.5 km, in addition to taking over responsibility for the operation of the existing NET Line One, which has been open since 2004, for the 23-year concession granted to the consortium.

Alstom's share of the contract is worth around 350 million, including 120 million for maintenance, and represents a breakthrough for the Citadis tram range here in the UK. Drawing on our worldwide experience of turnkey projects, we will be responsible for the construction of the new track, power, signalling, the supply and maintenance of 22 Citadis trams, as well as the maintenance of the existing 15 Line One trams over the 23-year period.

Judges at the awards were impressed by the projects innovative approach to funding of the development scheme, which includes the use of the local Workplace Parking Levy, along with its unique commitment to delivering widespread transport and economic benefits, including opportunities for local people and companies.

The award was presented by Transport Minister Norman Baker MP to Roger Harrison, Chairman of Tramlink Nottingham, and Chris Deas, Project Director at Nottingham City Council.
Following the awards, Roger said: Were delighted that our different and unique approach to funding and developing services has been recognised within the industry.

He went on to explain Tramlink had worked closely with Nottingham City Council to make the most of available funding.

He added: In fact, the project would not have been possible without the vision of the City Council and its commitment to maintaining its position as one of the least car dependent cities in the UK.

In addition to the start of construction work on two new lines to Clifton and Chilwell, the project has also seen a seamless transition in the transfer of tram operations on the existing line.

Chris Deas said: The award recognises the ambition of the project and the success weve already achieved. The project has been able to proceed in a difficult economic climate and demonstrates how the public and private sectors, working together in an open, co-operative and focused way can deliver complex projects.

Now in their sixth year, the Light Rail Awards are organised by Tramways and Urban Transit magazine and recognise excellence across the industry.