It has been confirmed that the Department of Infrastructure’s planning application for a new temporary horse tram structure on part of the former Summerland complex adjacent to Derby Castle has been approved. However, at the same time it is also confirmed that Summer Hill stables will continue to be used in 2018!
It has widely reported that the Department of Infrastructure had been unable to reach agree with Douglas Borough Council for the use of the stables with the imminent sale of the historic stables but despite this the trammers will once again be making Summer Hill stables their home during 2018. An application to get the stables listed continues but it would appear the process for this will take some time.
Although Summer Hill stables are open for business again this year there is now planning permission available for five years for a temporary structure which was also due to house the trams with Strathallan Depot needing major work to make the structure safe. It is not known when the work will start for this new building and a date for when it may come into use but it looks incredibly unlikely it will be ready for the start of the 2018 season.
With the trammers using the stables once again the Friends of Douglas Bay Horse Tramway will again be supporting the “Meet the Trammers” sessions which give visitors the chance to see behind the scenes and to learn more about the daily lives of the tramway horses. Admission is free but advanced booking is highly recommended.
Meet the Trammers sessions will be taking place as follows:
Saturday 31st March at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 7th April at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 21st April at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 5th May at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 19th May at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 9th June at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 23rd June at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 14th July at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 28th July at 1230, 1330 and 1430
Saturday 4th August at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 18th August at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 8th September at 1730, 1830 and 1930
Saturday 22nd September at 1000 and 1100
Saturday 6th October at 1000, 1100 and 1200
Saturday 13th October at 1000, 1100 and 1200
Saturday 27th October at 1000 and 1100