According to the speaker, what are the TWO main benefits of checking the tram disruption update before travelling?
A avoiding unexpected ticket checks B choosing the quickest alternative route C finding out about temporary stops D getting a discount on travel fares E planning around crowded periods
Questions 13 and 14
Choose TWO letters, A–E.
Which TWO problems does the speaker mention as likely during the disruption?
A reduced mobile phone signal at stations B confusing announcements inside trams C longer walking distances for some passengers D delays caused by road traffic E fewer staff available to help
Questions 15–20
What information does the speaker give about each of the following travel options?
Choose SIX answers from the box and write the correct letter, A–H, next to Questions 15–20.
Information
A runs only during peak hours B requires advance registration C accepts tram tickets at no extra cost D may involve a short walk E has limited space for bicycles F includes staff support at key points G follows a diverted route H offers refunds automatically
Travel options
15 Replacement buses __________ 16 Local train services __________ 17 Temporary tram stop at Riverside __________ 18 Park-and-ride site at Northgate __________ 19 Cycle shuttle trailer __________ 20 Assistance desk __________
Keys
11 B 12 E 13 D 14 C 15 G 16 C 17 D 18 A 19 E 20 F
Transcript
Part 2: You will hear a service update from City Transit about a tram disruption on the Green Line.
Good afternoon, everyone. This is a service update from City Transit about the tram disruption affecting the Green Line between Harbour Square and Eastbank. The work is essential track maintenance and it will run from this Saturday morning until the following Wednesday evening.
Before I explain the alternatives, there are two reasons we strongly recommend checking this update before you travel. You might think the app is for getting a discount on travel fares, but standard rates still apply. And while it doesn’t list every single temporary stop, those are clearly signposted on the streets anyway, it is essential because it helps you choose the quickest alternative route. Second, rather than warning you about unexpected ticket checks, the update shows when services are busiest, so you can plan around crowded periods if you have flexibility.
What difficulties should you expect? We have ensured that announcements inside the trams remain clear, and we actually have extra staff, not fewer, working on the platforms this week. However, the most common issue is actually delays caused by road traffic, especially around Central Bridge where buses share lanes with general vehicles. Another issue is that some passengers will have longer walking distances, because a few temporary stops cannot be positioned exactly outside the normal tram platforms. Mobile phone signals at stations shouldn’t be affected by the power works, but some journeys will feel slower than normal.
Now let us go through the travel options.
First, we are running replacement buses between Harbour Square and Eastbank. You don’t need advance registration to use these. However, because of the roadworks, they cannot use the riverside corridor, so they follow a completely diverted route compared with the usual tram line.
Second, if you prefer to avoid the roads, you can use local train services between Harbour Square Station and Eastbank Station. If you’re worried about costs, you won’t need to go online to claim automatic refunds because the train operator simply accepts tram tickets at no extra cost for that section.
Third, we have created a temporary tram stop at Riverside for passengers travelling to the university and the sports centre. We tried to put it right outside the main gates, but due to safety barriers, accessing it may involve a short walk of about five minutes from the nearest junction.
Fourth, if you drive part of the way, the park and ride site at Northgate will operate with extended hours. The parking lot is open all day, but please note the actual shuttle bus to the city centre runs only during peak hours, because outside those times demand is too low.
Fifth, cyclists should note that we are trialling a cycle shuttle trailer attached to selected replacement buses. You don’t need to book this, but be aware it has strictly limited space for bicycles, so at busy times you may need to wait for the next bus.
Finally, we are setting up an assistance desk at Harbour Square and Eastbank. They won’t handle refunds, but the service includes staff support at key points, helping you find the correct bay, advising on accessibility routes, and arranging boarding support for passengers who need it. You can see live updates in the City Transit app, on platform posters, and on our website. Thanks for listening.
