Specialist track maintenance is set to make the Midland Metro tram ride through West Bromwich smoother and quieter. 

The tram operator has given the assurance of a better ride following recent complaints by members of the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (PTA).

“We are told the noise problem is due to wear and tear on the track and wheels, which is to be expected from such a heavily-used system,” says Cllr Roger Horton, Metro lead member on the PTA.  “Travel Midland Metro runs more than 98 per cent of journeys on time and the number of passengers is growing so that’s all good news.  We just want a smoother ride as well.”

Wheels on the critical centre section of Midland Metro trams are ‘re-profiled’ every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) as part of routine maintenance.  To smooth some of the rails on the six year-old network, tram operator Travel Midland Metro is now also calling in specialist equipment which is based in mainland Europe and needs to be booked well in advance.  Costs for the rail grinding equipment to visit the UK are being shared with London Trams, as similar work is required on the capital’s tram network.

As well as PTA members commenting on the gradual increase in noise as the trams pass through West Bromwich, the issue was also raised at one of the Authority’s regular user group meetings in Sandwell.

“This shows how these regular meetings to give passengers a voice can lead to effective action.  I am very pleased that the operators do take notice of our concerns and we really do get things done,” comments Cllr Horton.

Centro, the executive arm of the PTA, also undertakes monthly checks and the results will be included in the tram company’s rail grinding programme.