The partnership will unite Google Cloud’s technology and innovation culture with CN’s knowledge in the transportation and logistics space. Credit: Johannes Plenio on Unsplash.

The UK Government has announced financial aid of $77.02m (£56m) for light rail operators across England to support their recovery as they commence services after the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions.

Operators that will benefit from the funding, which will run from 20 July to April 2022, are Manchester Metrolink, Tyne and Wear Metro, Sheffield Supertram, Nottingham Express Transit, West Midlands Metro, and Blackpool Tramway.

The government is currently making investments to improve transport links in the country, as well as helping the sector to provide better services amidst the pandemic.

Chief Secretary to the Treasury Steve Barclay said: “As our economy reopens, we’re continuing to support people and businesses and making sure people can get to work and use public transport easily is crucial.

“Today’s funding means that thousands of people across England can continue to travel on public transport when they need to, and regular services can continue as the country comes out of restrictions.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

This latest package will be the ‘final tranche of Covid-19 related financial support’ to be provided to the rail sector.

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street said: “Our West Midlands Metro service has operated throughout the pandemic and has seen patronage return very quickly each time restrictions have been lifted. This has shown just how important our trams are to commuters and our regional economy.”

Rail operators have received nearly $206.31m (£150m) to date from the government to continue their operations throughout the pandemic.

Last month, the UK Government announced a $6.89m (£5m) in funding to kickstart the development of the Rail Data Marketplace.

In a separate development, Jacobs has been selected as the East West Rail programme partner, involving the construction of a new rail link between Oxford and Cambridge.

The value of the three-year contract stands at around $50m (£35m).