The heritage tramway at Birkenhead has been dealt a potentially devastating blow, with an announcement that Wirral Council have proposed to close the Taylor Street Transport Museum - home to the Merseyside Tramway Preservation Society's collection of vintage trams and other vehicles - along with various local libraries, leisure centres and other Council funded amenities.
The Council have played a massive role in funding the daily running costs of the museum and the tramway, allowing the Society's donations to be directed towards restoration projects. However, Wirral Council are apparently aiming to save Ł3.7 million, although they have indicated that the proposed closures are subject to review, and that a two year hand-over period may be considered.
A number of meetings have already taken place to look at options to save some of the facilities that are under threat, and local transport operator Merseytravel have also shown some interest in the tramway. This organisation has invested heavily in the re-development of the Woodside Ferry area, which is located next to the tramway terminus, and also acquired the 'Beatles Story' exhibition in Liverpool, so their interest in local tourism cannot be denied. Sadly this is in stark contrast to Wirral Council - with one official reportedly telling an MTPS member that "we don't want tourists".
It remains to be seen what the future holds for this wonderful little tramway. It is believed that the museum is safe for another year, but after that, we shall just have to wait and see.
Source: Andrew Waddington from the Merseyside Tramway Preservation Society newsletter