As we reported a few weeks ago, there was a chance to see recent progress on the restoration of the last remaining Brighton Corporation Tramways passenger tramcar during an open weekend at the Brighton Tram 53 Society’s base in Sussex. In this article we see some images taken during that Open Weekend showing how the work to return the tram to working order is progressing. Graham Clifford with the photos.
No. 53 was built in Brighton Corporation’s own Lewis Road Depot in 1936 but would only have around three years use with the entire system being abandoned in 1939. After that it was sold on for further use and found its way to a farm in West Sussex, where it remained until the 1970s. It was subsequently rescued for restoration although this didn’t really start in earnest until 15 years ago when the Brighton Tram 53 Society was founded.
Recent work on the tram includes the installation of a compressor and associated piping and controls. The interior of the tram is also being worked on with the structure of the seating now being installed along with test fitting of the seat cushions with other work being done on the lighting.
As revealed during a visit by BBC News to the group earlier this year, they have ambitions to move from their current base to Stanmer Park with the hope that one day this could include a running line.
The paintwork is gleaming so much that you can literally see your face in it!
A view down the side of the tram showing the bodywork completed and livery applied.
Inside the tram and there is lighting whilst the basic seating structure is also in place.
Work is also starting on sorting out the seat cushions. (All Photographs by Graham Clifford, 10th May 2025)