THE recent debate over the location of Penarth Railway Station, due to low overbridges not being suitable for heavy rail overhead wire (OHW), hasn't included solutions offered by tram-trains. If lowering the track under the bridges isn't a feasible option, tram-train technologies, already in use, provide alternatives to OHW - along with other benefits for people.

A tram-train is a light rail vehicle that like a tram can operate safely on streets, but is fitted with train protection systems and with enough structural integrity to withstand a collision with a heavy rail vehicle (train) so that it can be operated on the rail network. Other benefits of tram-trains over trains include lower operating and infrastructure costs, greater acceleration and braking that is comparable to a bus.

Train-trains are well established on the continent, particularly in Germany. In the UK, tram-trains will be introduced between Sheffield and Rotherham in 2015.

Because OHW can be obtrusive and is not always a suitable option, power solutions have been developed to replace or supplement its use.

Whilst trams in Nice utilise batteries on sections of line without OHW, in a growing number of cities on the continent, including Bordeaux, sections of line are fitted with ground level switched contact systems. The trams simply lower their pantographs and lower two retractable power pickup shoes onto an isolated "third rail" in a groove in the street.

The existing station is in a good, visible location, and supports businesses located on Station Approach - although it needs a direct link to Plymouth Road. It would be a mistake to move it.

With tram-trains operating, open, barrier-free pedestrian crossings could be constructed between Dingle Road and Windsor Place, Dingle Park and possibly Railway Terrace - with no need for a costly, inconvenient and invasive new footbridge - and between Penarth Station and Plymouth Road.

New stations, perhaps at Cogan, and Fleet Way (Hadfield Road/Ikea) would be feasible, and a new tram-train line to the airport from Rhoose would be considerably cheaper than the proposed heavy rail spur to Cardiff Airport. Street running has the potential to open up many new routes.

Tram-trains in South Wales would greatly improve the lives' of people in Penarth and beyond - but what is good for the public, isn't necessarily good for key decision-makers at the DfT or Network Rail.

Let's hope that Penarth benefits from tram-trains operating in the near future.

Ian Perry

St Nicholas

Vale of Glamorgan