NET will tell you that at 30 mph the tram can stop 'within its own length' - so that's 100 feet then. So providing visibility is good and the driver sees you and providing he reacts instantly and providing the track is dry and there are none of those famous leaves on the line you'll be OK providing you're at least 100 feet ahead of the tram. That's if it's going at 30 mph.

NET intend to run the tram through the Compton Acres/Wilford area at speeds of up to 50 mph. Is this right or suitable for a residential area with schools and children's nurseries? If it were a road, the limit would be 20 - 30mph.

It goes without saying that a tram is unable to swerve to avoid a pedestrian, cyclist or cars. Certainly, accidents have been reported on other tram systems.

What NET can't or won't tell you is the stopping distance at their intended speed of 50 mph and we've pressed them for an answer!

NET would have us believe the tram is an inherently safe system yet only a few months from the opening of Line One, an unladen tram has derailed travelling at less than 20 mph. NET's view is that this was a "minor, non-injury derailment". One dreads to think what would have happened if the tram were carrying passengers and travelling at 50mph.

The concerns for the safety of a high speed tram in a residential area are of course greatly reduced if the CQD route is used.