Integrated transport : the future of light rail and modern trams in the United Kingdom, tenth report of session 2004-05, Vol. 1: Report, together with formal minutes

In light of the issues discussed in the NAO report on light rail transport options (HCP 518, session 2003-04, ISBN 0102927871) published in April 2004, the Committee's report examines the future for light rail in the UK, including its costs and benefits; factors for a successful light rail system and its use as part of an integrated transport system; barriers to the development of light rail; the effect of different financing arrangements on overall costs; and the practicality of public transport alternatives, such as increased investment in buses.

The Committee concludes that the development of light rail needs to be part of an integrated transport system and should involve local planning and highways authorities, if it is to be fully effective.

The report also concludes that the Department for Transport has failed to give a strategic lead in the development of light rail and identifies a number of areas where further action is needed, including increasing its expertise on light rail schemes and sharing this with promoters.