Tramlink facts for kids
Quick facts for kids London Trams |
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 Tram 2548 at Arena.jpg |
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| Info | |
| Owner | Transport for London |
| Locale | South London |
| Transit type | Light rail/Tram |
| Number of stations | 39 |
| Headquarters | Tramlink Depot Coomber Way Croydon |
| Operation | |
| Began operation | May 2000 |
| Operator(s) | FirstGroup |
| Number of vehicles | 23 Bombardier CR4000 12 Stadler Rail Variobahn |
| Technical | |
| System length | 28 km (17 mi) |
| Track gauge | 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) standard gauge |
| Electrification | Overhead line (750 V DC) |
| Top speed | 80 kilometres per hour (50 mph) |
Tramlink is a modern tram system in south London, United Kingdom. It is also known as Croydon Tramlink because it mainly serves the area around Croydon. This system started running in May 2000. It is operated by First London on behalf of Transport for London (TfL). TfL is the main group that manages most of London's transport.
Contents
What is Tramlink?
Tramlink is a type of public transport that uses electric trams. These trams run on tracks laid in the streets or on special routes. It's like a mix between a train and a bus. Trams are a great way to travel around south London.
Where Does Tramlink Go?
The Tramlink system serves several areas in south London. These include the Bromley, Croydon, Merton, and Sutton boroughs. It connects many towns and neighborhoods, making it easier for people to get around.
How Many Stations Are There?
The Tramlink network has 39 different stations. These stations are spread across the 28 kilometers (about 17 miles) of track. Each station helps connect people to shops, schools, and other important places.
Who Owns and Operates Tramlink?
Transport for London (TfL) owns the Tramlink system. TfL is a big organization that looks after London's buses, underground trains, and other transport. The daily operation of the trams is handled by FirstGroup. This means FirstGroup runs the trams and manages the staff.
How Many People Use Tramlink?
Tramlink is a very popular way to travel. In 2018/19, about 28.7 million journeys were made on the trams. That's a lot of people! It shows how important Tramlink is for daily travel in south London.
What Kind of Trams Are Used?
Tramlink uses two main types of trams:
- 23 Bombardier CR4000 trams
- 12 Stadler Rail Variobahn trams
These trams are powered by electricity from overhead lines. The electricity is 750 volts DC (Direct Current). Trams can travel at a top speed of about 80 kilometers per hour (50 miles per hour).
Tramlink's History
The idea for Tramlink started many years before it opened. It was built to help improve public transport in south London. The system officially began operating in May 2000. Since then, it has become a key part of the transport network in the area.
Important Events
Over the years, Tramlink has had many important moments. It has grown and changed to serve more people. One sad event happened in November 2016, when a tram derailed near Sandilands. This was a very serious incident. After this, safety measures were reviewed and improved to make sure such an event would not happen again.
Images for kids
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Tram 2530 leaving Croydon on an Elmers End service in 2007
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Tram 2545 in original livery at Beckenham Junction in 2001.
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A tram leaving Croydon towards Wimbledon, going past Reeves Corner in 2009.
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Interlaced track near Mitcham
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A Variobahn (left) and a CR4000 at Sandilands tram stop in July 2019
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A Tramlink Ticket Machine
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A Tramlink tram on George Street, Croydon in 2013
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Sandilands, November 2016.
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