First anniversary of Croydon tram incident – statement by Mike Brown MVO, London's Transport Commissioner

09 November 2017

`We will forever remember those who lost their lives or were injured in the tragedy at Sandilands.

`As we mark the first anniversary, our thoughts remain with all those affected. We continue to offer all the support we can, and to work with the Croydon community that has shown such strength during a truly awful time.

`Since the incident we have been working continually to introduce additional safety measures on the tram network and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.'

ENDS

We continue to work with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) as they complete their investigation and will take on board all recommendations from them, and the other investigations that are underway.
Since the incident we have introduced a number of safety improvements to the tram network, including:
  • Additional speed restrictions and associated signage have been installed near Sandilands and at three other locations on the tram network.
  • We have implemented a permanent speed reduction across the tram network, meaning the maximum speed trams can travel is now 70kph (previously 80kph).
  • Enhanced chevron signs have been installed at the four sites with significant bends to provide an additional visual cue for drivers. The number of speed signs has been increased and additional lineside digital signage will provide added speed warnings to drivers.
  • An in-cab driver protection device that detects and prevents fatigue and distraction has been trialled and is now fitted to all of our trams.
  • We are working with safety experts to test options to strengthen the glass fitted to trams.
  • Work on developing an in-cab driver alert system for monitoring and managing tram speed is underway.
  • The CCTV recording system has been replaced and upgraded
We continue to work with the wider UK tram industry on any other measures that could be introduced to improve safety.

The TfL Sarah Hope line, run by specially trained staff, remains available to all those affected and continues to provide help with counselling and other support.

To date, more than £1million has been paid for counselling, rehabilitation, compensation and other activities to support those affected.

We are proactively staying in contact with all those affected to provide continued support and urge anyone needing further help to contact us directly so that we can look into their concerns immediately.