Nottingham's tram operator has shared an important service update as the countdown to the historic Goose Fair begins.
To help thousands of locals visit the popular annual event, which will run from 25 September for 10 days, Nottingham Express Transit (NET) will be running an enhanced tram timetable that will see trams running more frequently, with additional evening services planned.
The operator’s Forest Park & Ride site will also be closed from 6pm on Sunday 21 September until 9am on Wednesday 8 October, to enable organisers to safely set up and dismantle the fair, which takes place across the city’s Forest Recreation Ground every year.
Trevor Stocker, head of operations and safety at NET, said: “Goose Fair is an incredible time for Nottingham, as thousands of people flock to the city from near and far to mark the start of the autumn season with this much-anticipated annual event. As a local transport operator that connects many of the suburbs with the inner city, we’re pleased to be extending our timetable frequency, meaning it will be easy to travel safely in and out of the city centre during this upcoming busy period - even into the evening.
“This approach is tried and tested, and after operating on a similar extended timetable for the festive season last year, the positive feedback we received shows just how offering frequent, reliable and safe public transport can really help our local economy to thrive, as more people can enjoy what Nottingham has to offer. Our staff are ready to help people during this busy period, so everyone can enjoy Goose Fair, whenever they decide to visit.”
Starting on Friday 26 September, trams running in each direction of The Forest tram stop, between Highbury Vale and Nottingham Station, will be running every four minutes, with trams beyond those stops running every eight minutes until 11pm. Sunday service remains unchanged, and normal tram service for all stops will resume on Monday 6 October.
Each year, thousands of people across the city rely on the trams for travel to work, their place of study, days out and more. The tram network offers a sustainable, convenient and affordable way to travel, providing an essential lifeline for many looking to access the city and the surrounding areas.
Travelling by tram is a safe and reliable way to beat the traffic when accessing Goose Fair this year, with the nearest tram stop being The Forest. Tram users will be able to reach The Forest stop by simply tapping their bank card or contactless mobile payment device on a validator at the start of their journey, and again when making their return journey, to be charged the price of an adult day ticket.
All public transport operators across the city also operate a contactless system for travel for those who wish to use it, making it even easier to travel to see this year’s Goose Fair festivities.
For more information about NET, visit https://www.thetram.net/