Transport for London (TfL) will consider bringing in numerous new features to Croydon’s tram network to improve safety following the crash that killed seven people in November.

An upgraded CCTV system and new technology ‘iBus’, which is used on London buses to monitor speeds and locations of vehicles, are under consideration for its trams.

An in-cab ‘driver alert system’, additional lineside digital signs to warn drivers of speed limits and chevron signs at four sites with sharp bends are also being considered.

The suggested features are contained in a new report due to go to TfL’s safety, sustainability and human resources panel next week.

TfL has been working with FirstGroup, which operates the tram as a contractor, to monitor “enhanced driver management arrangements”, the report reveals.

Since the derailment near Sandilands tram stop, the arrangements include: a more frequent programme of speed checks; briefings on fatigue management; accompanied driving through the area of the derailment where requested; and counselling.

The report comes ahead of the published findings of the investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Board (RAIB) into what caused the crash on November 9.

An interim report published by RAIB showed the tram was travelling at three and a half times the speed limit around a tight bend before it derailed – killing seven and leaving 51 injured.

CCTV was not working on board the tram when it crashed, the interim report also found.

TfL last month held a conference with tram operators around the country to discuss “the industry response and potential mitigation measures.”

The report reads: “In advance of the outcome of external investigations we are proactively considering a number of infrastructure mitigations that could be introduced, and we are engaging with the tram industry both in the UK and overseas to share knowledge.”

A meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 24, where a consultation between industry partners in the UK and abroad about systems in place.

Bereaved families and those injured are encouraged by TfL to make formal claims for compensation.

It has already funded funeral costs, covered some lost earnings and paid for counselling for some victims.

The report reads: “As with any major event of this kind, we are also conducting an exercise to examine the lessons we can learn for the future.

“An update on this will be brought to a future Panel meeting.”

Passenger numbers have since recovered to levels recorded before the derailment and are up on last year, to some extent because of the Southern rail strikes, TfL said.

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Tram passenger journeys (TfL)

Passenger numbers were down, understandably, aftert he crash as parts of the line, from New Addington, Elmers End and Beckenham and East Croydon, were closed as repairs investigations were ongoing.