In recent months there have been two notable absentees running on Midland Metro – 18 which went off to Spain in January for the fitting of batteries and 26. It was not known why 26 hadn’t been used since June but this has now become obvious as half of the tram departed Wednesbury Depot on the back of a low loader on Wednesday 20th September for repair to take place.
It is now understood that 26 suffered a derailment at the depot in June/July which caused some damage to the underframe. After an investigation into the damage at the depot it has now been decided to send it away for repairs with Wolverton Works winning the contract to complete the work. As with the initial deliveries of the Urbos 3 trams, 26 had to be split for transportation with the first half making the trip on 20th September and the remainder expected to be transported on Thursday 21st September.
Meanwhile 18 currently remains in Spain where testing has been undertaken following the fitting of batteries which will enable sections of the tramway to be built without overhead wires. This testing has been making good progress and it is expected that 18 will be back in the UK very soon.
26 is seen on the far side of the depot already split for its journey.
The start of the journey as half of 26 heads off to Wolverton.
26 turns the corner. Note the wood used to block the end.
Off she goes! The Allelys low loader takes the first half of 26 away. (All Photographs by Andy Walters)