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"...trams...
play a significant part in improving the attractiveness and quality of
public transport ... They can move large flows of passengers quickly and
reliably. They compete with the car in terms of journey times and convenience
and they help to reduce congestion and pollution."
Transport 2010 - The Government's Ten
Year Plan for Transport, July 2000
A tram network for Greater Nottingham was first
considered in the late 1980s. Early public consultation for Line One indicated
overwhelming support for the idea.
More Transport Choice
The tram network will provide for the needs of the future. Nottingham
has seen a dramatic increase in jobs in recent years and this growth is
expected to continue. Our integrated transport vision, given such growth,
supports all types of transport, including the car, but focuses on providing
real choice so we can use the most appropriate form of transport for each
journey.
Access
More tram lines will allow travel across the Greater Nottingham area by
connecting with Line One, making the City and District centres, jobs,
shopping, leisure and services such as health facilities easier to get
to for more and more people.
Less Congestion and Pollution
As more people have the choice not to use their cars we will all benefit
from a better environment and easier access for essential traffic thus
strengthening the local economy.
Opportunities for Regeneration
The project will create local employment opportunities and will encourage
even more investment and regeneration, just as other modern tram systems
in the UK and Europe are doing. NET could also enhance the value of land
and property and improve the image of our area.


Capacity and speed
Trams can carry far more passengers than buses - around 200 per tram.
Trams can accelerate quickly and a tram will usually be quicker than a
bus over a similar journey.
Flexibility and Reliability
Trams are a very reliable and punctual form of transport. They can serve
urban and suburban areas including pedestrian areas in City and District
Centres and can benefit from rapid off-street routes and priority at traffic
lights.
Environment-friendly
Trams are powered by electricity and can directly benefit from advances
in sustainable electricity generation. They are relatively quiet and do
not give off exhaust fumes and cause local pollution.
Comfort, accessibility and ease of use
Modern tram vehicles ensure a very smooth ride. The Nottingham tram is
100% low floor (offering excellent accessibility for all), air conditioned
and comfortable. NET will be easy and affordable to use.
Safety
Tram travel is many times safer than car travel. Tram stops will have
CCTV cameras to aid personal safety.
Enhancing Greater Nottingham's positive image
The tram will improve our strong image as a great place to live, work
and visit which is important for shopping, tourism and business. Its modern
design encourages the use of public transport and experience has shown
that transfer from car use is high, therefore helping reduce congestion
and pollution.
A Better Future for us all
The tram system is a long-term commitment to public transport and will
contribute to the modernisation of our City and District centres. Experience
has shown that being near to tram stops can increase the value of existing
residential and commercial property.
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