The UK government has approved £5m funding to replace the tracks on the Sheffield Supertram light rail system.
The investment will be provided to South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) and will allow Supertram to further boost the local economy of the Sheffield City Region.
The funding will enable to replace the existing sections of rail within street running elements of the Sheffield Supertram light rail system.
Transport minister Baroness Kramer said: "An efficient and reliable transport system is critical to any city.
"The Sheffield Supertram network is an important local feature: it contributes significantly to the growth of the local economy and provides reliable and frequent links to many of the key employment, regeneration and development areas in Sheffield.
"The funding we are providing demonstrates this government’s commitment to providing local communities with access to jobs."
Work under the Phase 1 renewal of the Supertram rails will be carried out by SYPTE along with support from Stagecoach, and Sheffield City Council (SCC), Young said.
SYPTE deputy interim director general David Young said: "We are pleased to welcome the minister to south Yorkshire and in particular her announcement of government funding to support the Phase 1 renewal of the worn Supertram rails."
Stagecoach, a major bus and rail operator, will operate and maintain the tramway until 2024, while SYPTE retains ownership of the track and infrastructure.
Image: Baroness Kramer with the supertram. Photo: courtesy of Department for Transport.
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