Last month we reported that ex-Midland Metro T69 16 had been moved to the Very Light Rail Innovation Centre in Dudley. It is set to be worked on to become a test tram for new equipment but this has yet to commence and in the meantime it has been moved on site at Dudley.
Initially 16 was placed inside the building where work had been taking place on the West Midlands Metro Urbos3 trams to replace their cracked bodyside panels. However, this was only meant to be a temporary arrangement and recently it has been moved out of the building and is now stored outside until work can commence.
Whilst we’re at Dudley, 32 and 35 remain the two trams in situ being repaired. 32 is approaching completion with 35 at an earlier stage of the repairs.
Looking down into the Very Light Rail Innovation Centre where 16 is now stabled outside. (Photograph by Andy Walters, 10th December 2023)