We’re about to see some more heritage lines carry their first passengers for the year with both the Great Orme Tramway and the Volk’s Electric Railway set to reopen for another season of operation. The Great Orme Tramway will be first out the blocks with trams set to run from Saturday 9th April with the Volk’s Electric Railway following two days later.
The Great Orme Tramway in Llandudno usually starts its season in March but the outside contractors used to conduct safety inspections were unable to visit until early April which has delayed the start of the 2022 season. But with these all now completed, and all winter maintenance having taken place, they are all ready to welcome their first passengers of the year with services getting under way on Saturday 9th April.
The cable hauled 3’6” gauge line will then run seven days a week until the end of October between 1000 and 1800 (1700 in October).
Then down in Brighton and the Volk’s Electric Railway will start running on Monday 11th April. Former BBC Newsreader Nicholas Owen will cut the ribbon and drive the first train at midday as things get underway once more.
Services on the Volk’s will initially only be able to run from the Aquarium to Halfway as there are ongoing works on the seafront. This includes the construction of new crossings across the tracks and although it had been hoped this could be finished by the start of the season it hasn’t been possible. As a result it will be Aquarium to Halfway only until further notice. The section from Halfway to Black Rock will follow at a later date.