Coventry City Council is set to approve the construction of an 800-metre twin track Coventry Very Light Rail demonstrator.
It will run between Coventry Railway Station and Coventry University Technology Park on Mile Lane.
This is the next step in Coventry’s ambition to create a new type of transport that has the potential to revolutionise the way people can travel around small to medium sized cities.
The 800m route, which will run in both directions and in live traffic, marks an important next step and it comes after huge success with the first demonstration which took place earlier this year where thousands of local people and experts enjoyed a ride.
At Greyfriars Road the 200 metres of track was laid in just eight weeks – faster than any other track system – saving time, money and disruption. In the weeks after the rides the team was also able to show utility companies how simple and quick it is to access cables and pipes under the track.
Councillor 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 the unique track system, made up of precast panels which are quick and simple to lay and which means there is no need for deep excavations. The system also delivers carbon savings during construction, which means Coventry Very Light Rail is better for the environment even before the battery-powered vehicle starts running.
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 the West Midlands Investment zone, centred on GreenPower Park, with the development taking place around Ansty Park, both of which are set to create a wide range of new jobs. This route would connect the Railway Station and Pool Meadow Bus Station with healthcare, education and leisure facilities, as well as providing a vital transport link to employment opportunities.
The proposal will be discussed by Cabinet on Tuesday 16 December.