In Pictures: Newhaven construction progress

The latest Trams to Newhaven email newsletter tells us that it is still the plan that the main construction works for the project will be completed during 2022 (so that will be within the next month then!) although there will still be some localised works taking place beyond that. In this latest pictorial update on the construction works we take a trip up to the end of the extension at Newhaven to see what work has been taking place there and how close to completion they may be there. John Hampton is the photographer.

It was just over three years ago that construction works for this extension started (November 2019) and in that period significant progress has been made along the 2.91 mile extension. Starting off with preparatory works and utility diversion/upgrades it has moved on to track laying and recently the installation of the first sections of overhead wires. Indeed a recent look at the works suggest that most overhead poles are in place and the majority of the overhead wires are also up except for areas around Ocean Terminal and at the top of Leith Walk and Picardy Place to connect with the current line at York Place.

This view shows the tramstop at Newhaven looking east towards Ocean Terminal. Since there is a scissors crossover just before the tramstop either platform could be used for trams to or from the Airport.

Looking in the other direction we see track installed to the west of the tramstop. This will be used for storage sidings to allow trams to be out stationed here overnight meaning early morning services will be able to be operated towards the city.

This is the very end of the track with the structure seen at the far end being the staff restroom.

A closer view of the restroom, viewed from the other side. It is yet to receive any doors or windows. (All Photographs by John Hampton, 2nd December 2022)