The new Line Three tram has been tested overnight for the first time, as the line nears completion.

The test saw the tram run over the Ningbo Friendship Bridge for the first time on the night of Wednesday 11 March, and marks significant progress in construction. Initial trials between the NG2 Business Park and University Boulevard have been hailed a success, and daytime runs are expected to follow shortly.

Councillor Jane Urquhart, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Transportation at Nottingham City Council, said: “There have been many milestones in this huge undertaking to extend the city’s tram network, but the first overnight tram to test the route as far as the Queen’s Medical Centre is a truly significant moment.

“This is the first modern tram network in the UK to serve a major hospital, and when passenger services begin they will truly transform how patients, staff and visitors can reach the biggest hospital in the region, with services running every 7.5 minutes, 364 days a year. They will be able to ride the tram to the hospital direct from stops along the entire extended tram network, or from the tram interchange at Nottingham Station, or from seven NET park and ride sites.

“Students at The University of Nottingham will benefit greatly, and these tests also mark the first tram crossing over the Ningbo Friendship Bridge, symbolising the city’s increasing educational, commercial and research links with China. The bridge is also one of the biggest engineering feats and one of the most iconic structures of the entire project.”

The tram is expected to open for the public in summer 2015. For more information about the tests, visit the Nottingham City Council website, and for details of how the tram will affect the University, visit our tram works page.