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Line 3 of the Nantes tramway is getting a makeover

Publié le 7 July 2025

To maintain the efficiency of its tram network and ensure the safety of its infrastructure and equipment, SEMITAN (the public transport operator for the Nantes metropolitan area) is planning major renovation, development and safety improvement works.

This is currently the case on tram line 3 between the Grande Ouche and Neustrie stations in Bouguenais, where the Nantes transport operator wanted to ‘restore the operating speeds achieved when the line was commissioned in 2004 and continue to provide efficient public transport’.

ETF, as a contractor, participated in the project led by SEMITAN and managed by SCE on behalf of Nantes Métropole. This project enabled the modernisation of this section of the network, which is used by nearly 360 trams during the week.

To ensure the long-term reliability and performance of Line 3, a major programme of works has been carried out, including several technical interventions:

  • 725 metres of railway platform renovated and 3,000 metres of track replaced to ensure a more reliable and sustainable infrastructure.
  • The installation of the new Nantes track, a track system specifically designed for Nantes-type trams, improving ride quality and laying precision.
  • 7,300 m² of surface coverings redone, including 2,600 m² planted, to improve landscape integration and promote rainwater absorption.
  • Installation of floating slab areas with anti-vibration mats to reduce noise and vibration nuisance for local residents.
  • High-precision work: demolition, laying of tracks using panels, and transport of components by special convoys, optimising deadlines and logistics.
  • A ‘strike operation’ project carried out without rail traffic for two months (from week 7 to week 17), concentrating work to minimise the impact on users.

As part of this project, an innovation was implemented for the first time: the use of sleepers equipped with lifting rods.

This device allows for precise adjustment of track asymmetry, saving time during installation and improving the quality of the setting.

Thanks to the mobilisation of all the teams on site, the objectives were achieved, meeting the expectations of the manager and the needs of users: a return to the initial speed of 30 km/h, improved comfort, safety and performance of the network.

📷 © Georges LEMARIE