Supertram (Sheffield) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stagecoach Supertram |
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|---|---|
| Info | |
| Locale | Sheffield |
| Transit type | Electrified tramway |
| Number of lines | 3 |
| Number of stations | 48 |
| Daily ridership | 36,000 (2005/6) - 13.15 million/year |
| Operation | |
| Began operation | 21 March 1994 |
| Operator(s) | Stagecoach Sheffield |
| Technical | |
| System length | 29 km / 18 miles |
| Track gauge | standard gauge |
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Supertram is a modern tram system in Sheffield, England. It helps people travel around the city easily. Think of it like a train, but it runs on tracks built into the streets.
The tracks and all the things connected to them, like the power lines, are owned by the South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE). This is a public group that helps manage transport in the area. The company called Stagecoach Group operates the trams themselves. They are in charge of driving them and keeping them in good working order.
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What is Supertram?
Supertram is a special type of public transport. It uses electric trams that run on rails. These rails are often found right in the middle of busy roads. The system helps thousands of people get to work, school, and shops every day. It's a great way to travel without a car.
How Trams Work
Trams get their power from electricity. This power comes from overhead lines. A special arm on top of the tram, called a pantograph, touches these lines. This lets the electricity flow into the tram's motors. The motors then turn the wheels, making the tram move. Trams are a very eco-friendly way to travel.
The Supertram Network
The Supertram system has 3 main lines. These lines connect many different parts of Sheffield. There are 48 stations where people can get on and off. The total length of the tracks is about 29 kilometers, which is around 18 miles. This makes it easy to reach many places in the city.
Connecting Sheffield
The Supertram connects important places like the city center, shopping areas, and residential neighborhoods. For example, you can take a tram to Meadowhall Interchange, a big shopping center. It also links to the main Sheffield station, making it easy to switch to trains.
History of Supertram
The Supertram system started running on 21 March 1994. It was built to bring back trams to Sheffield. Trams used to be very common in many cities. But they were removed in the middle of the 20th century. Supertram was part of a new idea to use trams again for city travel.
Building the System
Building the Supertram was a big project. Workers had to lay new tracks in the streets. They also put up the electric power lines. New stations were built along the routes. It took a lot of planning and hard work to get everything ready.
The Trams Themselves
The trams used on the Supertram network are called Siemens-Duewag Supertrams. They are designed to carry many passengers. Each tram has comfortable seats and standing room. They also have special areas for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Inside a Supertram
When you step inside a Supertram, you will see many windows. This gives you a good view of the city as you travel. There are also screens that show the next stop. This helps you know when to get ready to get off. The driver sits in a special cab at the front.
Images for kids
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Two Siemens-Duewag Supertrams at Meadowhall Interchange in July 2004 in a modified version of the original Stagecoach livery
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Siemens-Duewag Supertram 124 arriving at Gleadless Townend tram stop, on the Blue Route to Halfway
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Siemens-Duewag Supertram 125 leaving Castle Square tram stop, on the Purple Route to Meadowhall Interchange
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Supertram
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Detail of the Supertram track at Park Square
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The driving cab of a Siemens-Duewag Supertram, heading towards Castle Square from Ponds Forge/Fitzalan Square.
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Siemens-Duewag Supertram 122, operating the Purple Route to Herdings Park, on the permanent way leaving Sheffield station for Sheffield College (Granville Road) in July 2004
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Donetsk Way tram stop. The platform edge's alignment and rugged paving can be seen.
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Siemens-Duewag Supertram 123 at Castle Square
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Points set for left.
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Points set for right.
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Points misaligned or not detected.
