“Safer Travel Scheme” Proves a Win for Students Using Trams
Nottingham’s new “Safer Travel Scheme”, launched earlier in June across the tram and bus network, and is making a noticeable difference to how students and residents feel when travelling around the city.
The scheme is a partnership between Nottinghamshire Police, NET Tram, and local transport operators, placing more tram safety staff with police officers on key routes, especially during evenings and weekends. Increased patrols, better CCTV monitoring, and closer coordination between control rooms have led to a visible drop in antisocial behaviour.
According to Nottinghamshire Police, early figures show a significant reduction in reports of nuisance behaviour on trams are making late-night journeys safer and calmer. Inspector Mark Darlow, who leads the operation, said:
“Students make up a huge part of Nottingham’s transport users. The scheme is about reassuring them, making sure everyone feels confident travelling at any time of day.”
Students have also noticed the difference
“I travel back from the Central Library most nights, and recently there’s been a clear increase in staff around. It feels a lot safer especially at the quieter stops.”
Asha Patel, 2nd Year NTU Student
Alongside increased policing, the scheme also offers travel safety workshops delivered with support from the city’s universities, helping students understand how to report concerns and make use of emergency help points. In a statement NET explained how their “aim is to make Nottingham’s transport network welcoming and secure for everyone. Engaging directly with students is a crucial part of achieving that.”
With early results already proving promising, the Safer Travel Scheme hopes to strengthen Nottingham’s reputation as a safe and student friendly city.
