Sheffield 264 progress update

It has been a little while since we provided an update on the major overhaul of Sheffield 264 at Beamish Museum, with our last update on the project concerning the reunion of top and bottom decks. Since this milestone achievement work has continued on the tram, which is rapidly approaching completion – in fact, it is expected to commence test running before the end of 2015.

264‘s ornate dark blue and cream livery is now in the very early stages of being applied to the tram, with the first of the lower side panels now sporting traces of dark blue paint following completion of some final body repairs, such as the fitting of a few replacement panels. Only the panelling around the open balconies remain to be completed now. The upper deck interior has been fully revarnished and preparations have been made for the installation of the refurbished staircases. More recently the car has spent some time over the pit in the main tram depot allowing its braking equipment to be connected up, including installation of the track brakes which were essential to its operation on the more hilly routes in Sheffield. Lifeguards have been reassembled and work as required, whilst the controllers are nearing completion. Other less essential but no less impressive work has involved extensive polishing of the brass work which had deteriorated badly in the years since 264 was last operated on a regular basis.

If the current rate of progress continues it is expected that the Sheffield tram will be able to move around under its own power within the next week or so, and then testing of the car along the main line can finally commence. The aim to have it back in service next summer should be easily achieveable barring any major setbacks; indeed with an enhanced transport weekend in March usually devoted to tramway activities, and the Great North Festival of Transport in April featuring a First World War theme next year, there is every chance that Sheffield 264 could well play a starring role in one or both of these events.

A recent view of Sheffield 264 being shunted outside the Beamish tram depot, with the first traces of its original blue livery in evidence. (Photo courtesy of the Beamish Transport & Industry Blog)

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