Trams to Newhaven Defect Resolution Update

At the Transport and Environment Committee in December 2024, it was agreed officers would address the deputation questions raised by Community Council Together on Trams (CCTT) .

Following a meeting with CCTT a comprehensive review of the route was undertaken with a view to identifying contractual defects and to address concerns raised by residents, businesses, stakeholder and elected members.

In conjunction with CCTT, the issues identified were allocated three different categories:

• Red (high): Key issues to be addressed such as collapsed chambers, incomplete or damaged infrastructure including hard and soft landscaping. All of these will be completed by 31 March 2026. 
• Amber (medium): Minor defects, incomplete work, or items not meeting specifications. These are to be rectified by 30 June 2027.
• Green (low): Issues that are minor and can be included as part of the Council’s ongoing maintenance and repair programme.

In total 866 issues were identified, 155 as red (high), 374 as amber (medium) and 337 as green (low)

View this information shown as a graph. 

As of the 31 July 2025, a total of 58 issues had been rectified - 47 red (high), 7 amber (medium) and 4 green (low). The reason works on the eleven amber and green issues were undertaken were their proximity to red issues that were being addressed. Work on a further 37 red (high) issues are in progress.

View this information shown as a graph.

Works have now paused for the Fesitvals Embargo and will resume in September 2025.

Regular updates on progress will be provided going forward.