The Rail Forum and UKTram have announced a new strategic partnership aimed at strengthening collaboration across the UK’s rail and light rail sectors. The initiative seeks to deliver increased value to members of both organisations through joint projects, mutual support, and aligned objectives.
The partnership formalises their existing collaborative relationship, which earlier this year saw UKTram Chair Steve Edwards participate in a Light Rail roundtable event alongside Mike Hill, Deputy Director for Rail and Maritime at the Department for Business & Trade.
As part of this enhanced collaboration, members of both the Rail Forum and UKTram will benefit from:
- Joint Project and Policy Engagement: The two organisations will actively identify and pursue opportunities for joint work on specific projects and policy matters, providing members with a stronger, unified voice on key industry issues.
- Expanded Access to Events: Members will gain reciprocal access to a selection of events hosted by each organisation, including a joint event scheduled for November.
- Integrated Sector Representation at Events: Where appropriate, events organised by the Rail Forum and UKTram will incorporate content relevant to both light rail and mainline rail respectively, offering members broader insights and opportunities for cross-sector learning.
- Enhanced Communications and Promotion: Members will benefit from increased visibility through the promotion of relevant news, events, and opportunities across both organisations’ communication platforms, including newsletters and quarterly updates.
- Strategic Partner Recognition: Each organisation will formally recognise the other as a strategic partner on their respective websites, strengthening industry connections and enhancing member credibility.
- Support for Innovation Initiatives: The Rail Forum and UKTram will collaborate on the delivery of the Light Rail SME Challenge 2025, providing a valuable platform for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to showcase innovation and connect with key stakeholders.
James Hammett, Managing Director at UKTram, said:
“Collaboration between industry bodies like Rail Forum and UKTram is essential as we respond to shared challenges and opportunities. We’re proud to stand for collaboration, innovation and proactive sector leadership and we look forward to providing even greater value for the wider rail industry by aligning our efforts. This partnership provides another valuable platform for connecting our members with new insight and support.”
Cat Appleby, Membership & Engagement Director at Rail Forum, said:
“We are delighted to launch this partnership with UKTram which creates new opportunities for members to connect, innovate, and shape the future of a more joined-up and passenger-focused transport network.”
This partnership underscores a shared commitment to driving excellence, collaboration, and growth across the UK transport sector. Both organisations express their anticipation in delivering tangible benefits for all their members as this partnership develops.
