Welcome to the tram page. Here you will find images, information and links about trams - past, present and future.

Trams - the answer to urban transport problems?

Trams seem to be making a comeback. Particularly in Britain, demand for greener, more environmentally friendly transport is increasing. The realisation that pollution must be cut generally and especially in the areas where people live and work has led to legislation and policies encouraging alternatives to traditional transport.

Although trams made an encouraging start in the early 20th Century, they were often phased out as demand switched to more personal transport in the form of motorcars. As the trams began to disappear, buses became the only means of mass urban transport flexible enough in the new environment of the car. In many places around the world, it has become apparent that there are too many cars. Even buses are not as clean as they need to be. In Freiburg, Germany, trams take precedence over all other vehicles. Parking access is restricted to people with disabilities and local residents. This sort of organised transport policy is becoming more popular around Europe as it means less congestion and pollution in towns and city centres whilst maintaining personal access for those who need it.

Buses in London are now often a slower means of transport than bicycles because the quantity of traffic on the roads heavily restricts movement. By introducing trams, transport organisations can force private transport to take second place. Trams can be linked to train systems and other means of public transport. Ultimately, the desire for cleaner, more efficient public and urban transport will lead to significant changes in the way we travel. It can be seen by the way that car manufacturers are looking into smaller vehicles, that car use in urban areas is set to change in line with modern transport developments.

If the number of car users can decrease, it seems that trams are likely to see increasing use within town and city centres.

Design Council of Great Britain: Trams, Before & After
Trolleycars.com - tram links