West Midlands Metro is relaunching a successful national safety campaign as it steps up preparations for the launch of services on the Birmingham Eastside extension.
With driver training taking place on the new line to Millennium Point, the return of the ‘Two Lines = STOP’ message across the existing network and along the extension route couldn’t be more timely.
Anthony Stanley, Metro’s Head of Operations and Safety, explained: “Safety is, and always will be, our top priority. As we embark on crucial driver training for the Birmingham Eastside extension, raising public awareness is more critical than ever, especially for new passengers and community members who will be encountering the tram for the first time.”
The proactive safety drive is being run in partnership with the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board (LRSSB) and aims to reduce the risk of collisions between pedestrians and trams.
The campaign will help ensure essential safety measures are clearly communicated during a significant period of network expansion, and act as a welcome reminder elsewhere on the network as the busy festive season approaches.
From this week, passengers and other members of the public will notice eye-catching signage appear at key locations, encouraging them to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings near tram tracks.
The initiative proved particularly successful earlier this year when the Metro first joined tramway operators across the UK in running the The Two Lines = STOP campaign.
“We are proud to launch the ‘Two Lines = STOP’ campaign in partnership with the LRSSB, ensuring that as our network grows, we proactively maintain our excellent safety record and ensure the West Midlands Metro remains one of the safest forms of public transport in the region,” Anthony said.
Carl Williams, LRSSB Chief Executive, added: “We’re delighted that the Metro is re-running the campaign at a crucial time for the network, and I’m sure the eye-catching graphics will help to tackle pedestrian inattention, one of the biggest challenges faced by all tramway operators.”
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