Plans are progressing for a new Tram Train stop with park and ride in Templeborough. People are being invited to have their say on the proposals in a public consultation running until Fri 3 September.
The proposed transport scheme will link Magna Science and Adventure Centre to the Tram Train network, to improve Tram Train and tram connectivity, access to employment, walking and cycling opportunities, air quality and congestion.
Tram Trains provide a direct service from Sheffield city centre to Rotherham Central and Parkgate, travelling on street tramlines and the national rail network. The proposed new stop is the first addition to the network since it opened in 2018.
Part of Sheffield City Region’s £166 million Transforming Cities Fund programme, the South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) and Network Rail proposals link to Rotherham Council’s proposals for an active travel corridor between Rotherham town centre and Tinsley, and Sheffield City Council’s proposals for walking and cycling links continuing to Meadowhall.
SYPTE Director of Transport Operations, Pat Beijer, said: “Passengers in South Yorkshire are the first in the UK to benefit from pioneering Tram Trains, and we’re seeking your views to help shape this ambitious project - the first to grow the network since it opened in 2018. The important proposals aim to improve connectivity between local neighbourhoods and centres. We hope the new Tram Train stop and Park & Ride will help to address traffic congestion and air quality in the area, particularly at Junction 34 of the M1, by encouraging people to think about choosing public transport and active travel over private cars.”
Proposals for the new stop aim to improve accessibility and provide growth opportunities in the Templeborough and Sheffield Road area.
Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment, Cllr Dominic Beck, said: “We want everyone in Rotherham to have sustainable, convenient and affordable travel options – and public transport is central to that. This scheme stands to benefit us all by reducing traffic congestion and harmful emissions, so I encourage everyone who lives in, works in or travels through this area to examine the proposals, and help make the most of this investment.”
Route Director for Network Rail’s North and East route, Matt Rice, added: “The proposed Tram Train stop would improve connectivity for local businesses, visitors to Magna Science & Adventure Centre and people living in the Rotherham area, with better access to a fast, clean method of transport. We’re pleased to be working closely with SYPTE and join them in encouraging local residents and Tram Train users to share their views through the consultation.”
People can take part in the consultation:
- online at www.travelsouthyorkshire.com/Magna
- by calling Traveline 01709 515151
- via a paper form from the Customer Service Desk at Meadowhall, Rotherham and Sheffield Interchange
- by registering to attend an online Q&A session
Online Q&A sessions will take place on Wednesday 11 August 2021 at 12pm – 1pm and Wednesday 18 August 2021 at 6pm – 7pm. Registration will be available at www.travelsouthyorkshire.com/Magna
Feedback from the consultation will help shape and inform the design and operational requirements for the scheme.
