The concept is currently the focus of a business case being developed by global engineering, development and management consultancy firm SMEC on behalf of the City Council. The business case is required to support future implementation of this type of tram system.
In a statement, Mayor of Stirling Mark Irwin described a business case as an important step. He added:
“Ultimately, what this business case will allow us to do is de-risk a project that has the potential to deliver fantastic economic, business, transport, innovation and sustainability outcomes.”
Irwin said the trackless system could revolutionise the country's mid-tier transport services by giving people another option than light rail that delivers similar benefits in a more cost-effective manner.
The mayor stressed the trackless tram could also be an important part of plans for the city centre, and its potential use will receive due diligence as part of the business case.
Information contained in business case studies such as the one being undertaken by SMEC have often been published as part of brochure printing campaigns to ensure local residents are fully aware of the findings.
The business case for a trackless tram, which will also identify associated costs and some of the potential opportunities it could create, is scheduled for completion mid-year.