The Heaton Park Tramway – the UK’s one truly preserved tramway and described in a recent press release as Manchester’s second tramway (although you could suggest Metrolink is Manchester’s second tramway!) – have recently received a new delivery from Manchester Metrolink. But this is not the much anticipated arrival of T68 1007 – that excitement is for the future – but rather a selection of tram rail and fittings which are spares from the construction of the Second City Crossing.
The equipment which has been recently delivered to Heaton Park was taken from the single section of track that was used to run trams through St Peter’s Square whilst the area was subject to the major transformation works which has now seen a two island platform layout put in place. The track and fittings will be put into store for now but will be used for future extensions to the current line which runs between Middleton Road and Lakeside for approximately 1km.
Honorary Alderman Keith Whitmore, Chairman of Heaton Park Tramway, said: “We have worked closely with TfGM for a number of years and acknowledge their respect for preserving transport history within Greater Manchester. We are delighted with this donation which will contribute to the extension of the second tramway in Heaton Park.”
The Heaton Park Tramway is currently closed for the winter will be reopen on Sunday 19th February and will then be open regularly throughout the year until November. Amongst highlights in 2017 will be a celebration of the Manchester Transport Museum Society’s 50th anniversary on 2nd April and a Tramtastic Day Out on 2nd July.
Any ideas what extensions are planned at Heaton Park?
As has been well documented over the years they are intending to go from the current lake terminus to Metrolink gates on the far side of the park. I believe the first phase being to cross the road behind the shed and link up with the events field beyond.