Supertram network investment planned over October half-term
South Yorkshire’s Supertram network is set to benefit from further investment this October half-term, as essential rail replacement works take place to improve reliability and future-proof the system for years to come.
The works mark the final phase of a major programme of investment delivered this year, as part of South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s (SYMCA) commitment to invest over £110m by 2027. This includes upgrades to the trams, track, control systems and power supplies alongside the construction of a new Tram Train station at Magna.
The next stage of works will begin on Infirmary Road from Sunday 26 October to Friday 31 October and partially affect Blue and Yellow route tram services.
Melanie Corcoran, SYMCA’s Executive Director of Transport, said: “These works are part of SYMCA’s ongoing investment in Supertram. By scheduling them during the school holidays, when passenger numbers are lower, we aim to minimise disruption.
“Our reliable replacement bus services are scheduled to connect with trams for onward travel so people can continue to make journeys during this time.
“We’re grateful to customers for their patience during this period of ambitious and essential upgrades. This investment will help ensure the safe and reliable operation of Supertram for the millions who rely on it every year.”
Rail replacement works on Infirmary Road
The rail replacement works are essential to replace worn rails and ensure trams can continue to operate safely for years to come. The new rails will give passengers a better travel experience by improving comfort, reducing noise, and reducing the risk of unplanned closures on the network.
These essential works will be undertaken along Infirmary Road near to the tram stop. To allow these to be completed safely, Blue and Yellow route tram services will be subject to alteration between Sunday 26 October and Friday 31 October inclusive.
Infirmary Road, Langsett/Primrose View, Bamforth Street, Hillsborough Interchange, Malin Bridge, Hillsborough Park, Leppings Lane and Middlewood tram stops will not be served during this time.
It's important to note the majority of the Supertram system will run as normal during the works, with the exception of the Blue and Yellow routes which will run as follows:
- Blue route tram services will run between Halfway and Shalesmoor for Kelham Island operating at the normal frequency of up to every 12 minutes.
- Yellow route tram services will run between Meadowhall Interchange and Cathedral during the day until around 20:00 on Monday to Friday, operating at the normal frequency of up to every 12 minutes
- after 20:00 on Monday to Friday and all day on Sunday, Yellow route tram services will extend beyond Cathedral and run between Shalesmoor for Kelham Island and Meadowhall Interchange
- Purple route tram services will run as normal
- Tram Train services will run as normal except on Saturday evenings whilst the construction works for the new Magna Tram Train Station and Park & Ride facility take place visit the Magna Tram Train Station and Park & Ride project page.
Customers can view the revised timetables on the Infirmary Road Tram Stop information page or our online Timetable Finder.
Dedicated tram replacement bus services
Dedicated tram replacement bus services, BL1 and YE1, will operate to help people make their journeys between Sunday 26 October and Friday 31 October inclusive.
- The BL1 service will run between Shalesmoor for Kelham Island and Malin Bridge up to every 12 minutes and will serve limited bus stops located near all affected tram stops along the route.
- The YE1 service will run between Castle Square/Cathedral and Middlewood up to every 12 minutes during the day on Monday to Friday, until around 20:00.
- After 20:00 on Monday to Friday and all day on Sunday, the YE1 service will operate between Shalesmoor for Kelham Island and Middlewood and will serve limited bus stops located near the affected tram stops along the route.
All valid tram and multi-modal tickets will be accepted for travel on the BL1 and YE1 replacement bus services.
Customers can buy their ticket in advance using the TSY Mobile app, or from a tram conductor. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased from the BL1 and YE1 bus drivers using contactless card or cash payments when boarding.
Customers can find out more about the replacement bus services and view the BL1 and YE1 timetable on the Infirmary Road Tram Stop information page or our online Timetable Finder.
Traffic and local bus services
These essential rail replacement works on Infirmary Road, will require some traffic diversions which will affect traffic and some temporary changes to bus service 57 and 57a (Stagecoach) and 81 and 82 (First Bus).
Further information about traffic diversions is available on the Infirmary Road traffic diversions webpage.
