Letter: ‘Why Bournemouth needs a tram network’

I always find a trip away from the UK is a good opportunity to compare and contrast what we have back here in England and more specifically BCP.

There is much I could say about the state of Bournemouth[1] and Poole town centres in comparison to comparably sized Gallic counterparts such as Rouen and Cae, a mere 100 or so miles across the channel. However, the purpose of this letter is to bring attention to another attribute of these cities.

Caen, Rouen, and Le Havre, along with many other modest-sized cities throughout metropolitan France operate their own tram networks – three dozen in total.

In contrast the UK currently has only eight tram systems in operation. Trams, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), and innovative LiDAR-based trackless Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) systems are helping cities worldwide combat congestion and reduce reliance on cars.

As some may recall, Bournemouth once had both trams and trolleybuses.

Given the pressing climate goals we face and the persistent issue of congestion, perhaps it is time to advocate for their reintroduction as a means to improve local traffic[2] conditions.

The ambitious infrastructure projects in France, including their impressive roads, bridges, and rail networks, can evoke a sense of envy.

In our country, however, it often seems that the government is attempting to address transportation needs outside London as cheaply as possible, leaving the burden on the public.

While I appreciate the objectives of active travel schemes, such as promoting healthier commuting habits and cleaner air, it sometimes feels as though councils fail to acknowledge the realities of living in drizzly old England. On certain days, it is entirely reasonable for people to prefer not to cycle or walk in sideways rain.

Electric vehicles (EVs) have been lauded as a solution for cleaner air, but they do not effectively tackle the issue of congestion, which is acutely felt throughout BCP.

The recent challenges faced by the demise of Yellow Buses (although partly mitigated by More’s intervention) have only exacerbated the situation.

To address these urgent challenges, it is crucial that our local leaders seriously consider the introduction of light rail or a similar system in BCP.

It has been nearly 25 years since the ambitious proposal for Dorset Area Rapid Transit (DARTS), a light rail network utilising the mainline rail line, was put forward.

The envisioned network included on-road sections and spurs connecting to locales like Wimborne and Ferndown.

Every tram network has humble beginnings, often starting with a single line serving popular local destinations.

An approximately 9-10km line originating from the town centre and stopping at key locations like Lansdowne, the travel interchange, Kings Park for the Vitality Stadium, Littledown, the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, Wessex Fields, and the Airport, (further unlocking the potential of this strategic site) presents a compelling opportunity.

Likewise, a line utilising the mainline rail between Poole and Christchurch[3] before branching off through Bournemouth town centre would make considerable sense also.

AARON GIBSON

Comber Road, Bournemouth

References

  1. ^ Bournemouth (www.bournemouthecho.co.uk)
  2. ^ traffic (www.bournemouthecho.co.uk)
  3. ^ Christchurch (www.bournemouthecho.co.uk)

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