NANTES EXPANSION - CITY TRAM NOW A MATURE NETWORK

Some fifteen years ago Nantes opened the first modern tramway in France, which proved successful, and ever since the tramway network has been developing with two routes opened in August 2000. As the network has grown, it has had a wider impact of helping to develop the city, making it more functional and preventing urban decay. The tramway system is said to have brought about an increase of 20% in city-centre shoppers with an increase in those travelling by public transport to the city centre from 30% to 50%. The growth of the tramway network has brought about a gradual reduction of the role played by the bus routes so that buses have become feeder lines for the tramway. Reduced fares are offered to car drivers who use the park-and-ride facilities. The image of the well-established tramway is now strong so that where the city now wants to expand the rail lines should form the backbone for further growth.