Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen shares details on the upcoming trackless tram pilot, set to launch by the end of 2025.
Tees Valley: Mayor Ben Houchen has shared more about the trackless tram pilot. The pilot will start before the end of 2025.
On BBC’s Politics North, Houchen said they will begin procurement soon. The first trams should be operational by the end of this year.
The pilot will run for 12 months at Teesside Airport. Funding comes from a £978 million budget after HS2 was canceled.
The Tees Valley Combined Authority approved plans in January 2024. They aim to use the funds for over 20 projects in the region.
Out of this budget, £20 million is set for 15 electric, trackless trams. These will serve town centers in Middlesbrough, Redcar, Stockton, Hartlepool, and Darlington.
Houchen mentioned that they can start the pilot without full funding. However, to expand the service across all five towns, they will need more money.
The government is currently reviewing the funding. By summer, they will clarify how much support the Tees Valley will receive.
Houchen stated that plans for autonomous trams are moving forward. They aim to launch the pilot at Teesside Airport this year.
As the pilot progresses, they will plan to introduce trams to town centers by the end of the pilot.
If funding continues, the trams could be running between towns by late 2026. The project will use smart technology for efficient travel.
The trackless trams will offer a hop-on, hop-off service around town centers. Specific routes will be developed as the project moves forward.
These vehicles will be electric and autonomous, designed to operate safely on roads. They can also adapt for seasonal events.
Additionally, there are plans for an autonomous shuttle service at Teesworks and Teesside International Airport. This will help staff and visitors get around.
Smaller pods will connect the park and ride site to various locations. Their future depends on the success of the trial.
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