Some bad news to report concerns the planned launch of the newly restored Liverpool 245 which has been postponed due to unforeseen technical difficulties. The completion of this long-running restoration project has experienced more than its fair share of delays, not least due to a contract firm taking considerably longer than expected to complete work on the car’s truck and underframe, and the latest setback means that it will not be possible to launch the tram on 19th July as planned.
Tickets for the special first journey in passenger service by 245 on the Birkenhead heritage tramway have already been sold, and ticketholders are advised to retain their tickets until a new launch date is confirmed. Full details will, of course, be provided on British Trams Online as soon as this information is available.
Although this latest delay is obviously very disappointing, the restoration of Liverpool 245 is undoubtedly a fantastic achievement for the Merseyside Tramway Preservation Society and hopefully its entry into service will not be delayed by too much, as its launch is sure to be one of the main highlights of the year for the heritage tram sector.
Whilst its obviously a massive shame for the organisers and the dedicated local team of volunteers am sure they will bounce back and put on a very special show when its finally able to grace the tracks.
Perhaps a chance for people to sample the Festival of Model Trams in Manchester on same weekend. Or the Blackpool Heritage Tram Tour Launch of Box40 on Sunday.
Disappointing is not the word for it. The lads are gutted at yet another delay. The main problem is the brakes and they are proving to be difficult. New parts have been acquired and we await other parts. It is somewhat annoying as I put off my holiday by two days so I could be there. Still if it makes the people who wanted to do three things that week-end happy, then I am in favour. If you are not going to the other two events then we will be happy to see you and let you ride one of our other trams.
There may be an article in it as we have been repeatedly let down by the professional suppliers and workers.
It’s a shame the launch has been put back, but I gather it’s out of the hands of the restoration team. Wouldn’t you think that commercial suppliers would recognise they are dealing with a pretty high profile and time sensitive project and rise to the challenge to do their bit on time? After all, their businesses are the ones who should get the flack.