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| News...July 2006...News...July 2006...News...July 2006...News This Page was last updated Sunday 30 July 2006 |
| All the news carried on these pages is done so in good faith and the source is always quoted, normally with hyperlinks. If you have a correction to give us on a news story or have any additional news that can be added do not hestiate to email us . We are grateful for those people who have given us permission to use their images and news on this page. |
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For all previous news pages click here to go to the new News Index page which provides links to news dating back to September 2002. Photos on this page: Manchester Metrolink 1001 approaching Piccadilly with a new bridge in the background (added 9 July 2006) Blackpool Railcoach 680 with its new all over advert for Merrie England Bar at North Pier (added 9 July 2006) Sunderland 16 showing off one of the new period adverts on the trams at Beamish as part of a sponsorship scheme (added 9 July 2006) NET 211 with one of the "supersquare adverts", this one for Fill My Belly (added 9 July 2006) Blackpool Centenary 648 back in service after refurbishment in all over white liver (added 23 July 2006) |
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News In Brief Blackpool (LTT): The LTT have now confirmed their commission with Blackpool Transport to construct a new underframe for Brush Railcoach 287 (the former Works 259). Work is now due to commence next week! (30/7/06 - Philip Higgs) DLR: Next weekend (5/6 August) buses will replace trains between Bank/Tower Gateway and Canary Wharf. On the Sunday because of road closures in the area the bus service is subject to change with signage in place to direct people to relevant bus stops. DLR services will operate from Stratford-Lewisham, King George V-Canary Wharf/Lewisham and Beckton-Canning Town. (30/7/06 - DLR) ------------------------------------------------- Birmingham: Crime on the Midland Metro system in the first six months of the year has fallen again, in comparison with previous years. The fall this year is 5.1% down to just 111 crimes on the trams and surrounding infrastructure. Phil Bateman, Corporate Affairs Director of Travel Midland Metro commented: “This is nothing but good news for our customers. We have reached the half way point in the year. We are delighted to have even better figures than we achieved last year which were in themselves colossal!” (23/7/06 - Midland Metro) Blackpool: The RAIB are investigating a derailment on the Blackpool Tramway on 6 July. Balloon 720 was proceeding south towards Starr Gate at Pleasure Beach. The previous tram had been running late and had terminated at Pleasure Beach using the points to reverse. When 720 reached these points its second pair of wheels derailed and the rear of the tram started to take the reversing line before it came to a stand. The tram was moving at very low speed when the incident took place and there were no injuries to passengers or crew. (23/7/06 - RAIB) Croydon: Engineers are to excavate under the tracks at East Croydon station this week to try and get to the bottom of the trouble which has seen the main eastbound platform closed at the station. Roger Harding, Tramtrack Croydon General Manager said: “We are currently organising contractors to open up the blockwork and excavate down to the track slab beneath the rail to establish the precise cause of the problem and develop the most sensible permanent solution." (23/7/06- Croydon Guardian) Croydon: Poplar Walk, one of the worst sections on Tramlink for accidents, could well be getting new road signs and markings to cut down the amount of incidents involving rod vehicles. At the moment ahead only signs are attached to the traffic lights at the junction to warn drivers not to turn right. The tramway is marked with block paving laid at a slightly higher level than the road. Cllr Chris Wright, cabinet member for planning, environment and urban development, said: “Regrettably there is a history of non-compliance at this location. Whether motorists are deliberately taking a chance or genuinely don't understand the signage, it is clear that the message needs to be reinforced before further incidents occur." (23/7/06 - Croydon Guardian) Edinburgh: A rail action group – Edinburgh Railway Action Group – has called on the council to scrap its tram plans and build a suburban railway network instead. Harold Nicolson said: “The trams will not take place. I bet that after a lot of thought, the council will realise the whole plan will cost too much. I feel that Cllr Burns is playing with toy trams at the City Chambers and that is why he is pushing for the tram lines." He has written to the Lord Provost Lesley Hinds and wants the money to be spent on reopening stations in Abbeyhill, Leith and Portobello instead. (23/7/06 - The Scotsman) Sheffield: Stagecoach Supertram are warning that major disruptions are likely on trams until Friday 4 August at peak periods because of the closure of Bradfield Road. They are aiming to run as close as possible to the advertised service but say they have no control over traffic flows. (23/7/06 - Stagecoach Supertram) ------------------------------------------------- Blackpool (LTT): The cab ends of Standard 143 have now been separated and removed from the car body. The canopy framework of these will be retained but otherwise the cabs will not feature in the final restoration. The next step will be to complete the separation of the remaining tramcar saloon from the underframe and then the body can be lifted and the underframe will be shot blasted and painted. Photos of the latest situation of the tram can be seen at the link to the right. (16/7/06 - LTT) Manchester: There were no services between G-Mex and Piccadilly Station today (16 July) because of essential engineering works. A replacement bus service was in operation between the two stops, although this wasn’t serving Piccadilly Gardens. No other services were affected. (16/7/06 - Manchester Metrolink) Nottingham: All tram (and train) services between Hucknall and Bulwell were suspended on Wednesday (12 July) morning after a power cut. (16/7/06- This is Nottingham) Sheffield: The fourth “refreshed” tram on Supertram has now been released back into service - 101 is the latest lucky one to look resplendent in the new livery and interior. In addition 107 has been withdrawn from service for a start to be made on its refresh. For full details on what the Supertram fleet looks like at the moment see the Stagecoach Supertram fleet list. (16/7/06 - Stagecoach Supertram) ------------------------------------------------- Blackpool: Railcoach 680 has returned to service in a new all over advert. The tram has moved north along the prom from advertising Central Pier to North Pier. The tram is in a dark blue base coat with blank ends and vinyls for the Merrie England Showbar on the sides. Meanwhile, Centenary 642 has just been painted in a yellow base coat for an expected new advertising contract whilst sister 648, which is nearing the end of its refurbishment has been completed in all over white. (9/7/06 - Paul Turner from Yahoo! Groups Blackpool_Transport) Blackpool: Standard 48 was expected to be moved from the Willamette Shore Trolley, operated by the Oregon Electric Railway Historical Society, to its new home at the Oregon Railway Museum in Brooks on 6 May. 48 was retired from use in 2004 because of its extensive use but will now run in a more limited fashion at the Museum. (9/7/06 - Fylde Tramway News) DLR: All units (with the exception of the B2K ones) have now had their refurbishments completed both internally and externally. This means that there are now no all over adverts left on the system. The four B2K units which formerly held advert schemes for Back the Bid and had lost the vinyls have also undergone the refurbishments – inside and out. To see the current situation of the fleet check out the DLR Fleet List. (9/7/06 - Chris Cooper) Manchester: 1026 has returned to service seemingly after undergoing its mid life refurbishment, and is now in the revised livery. 1015 has also been noted in a different livery style, it being the only tram in the fleet to have a gloss finish. It is also missing its fleet numbers on either side of the articulation. (9/7/06 - Gordon Ferguson) Manchester: Sheffield: Lucy Marks got to travel in style to her wedding on Saturday 1 July – by one of the newly refurbished Supertram’s in Sheffield! After an approach by one of Lucy’s close friends it was arranged to ensure that one of the trams was on the correct diagram to take her from Middlewood to Hillsborough with a small section of the tram cordoned off for her, her parents and bridesmaids to travel in style. (9/7/06- Stagecoach Supertram) Sheffield: In a week of mostly good news from the tram world, Stagecoach Supertram has been dealt a blow in their bid for extensions. The Department for Transport have said that the plans for city centre extensions and out to Rotherham do not deliver value for money. Sheffield transport planners say they now need time to consider the government’s decision. (9/7/06 - BBC News Online) ------------------------------------------------- |
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EXPERTS BACK MIDLAND METRO EXPANSION PLANS Sunday 30 July 2006 An independent panel of experts have given their backing for the Midland Metro extensions through Birmingham city centre and to Brierley Hill via Dudley from the current line at Wednesbury. Their findings are now being sent to the Government, who are currently considering a business case for the £430 million scheme. This independent “Gateway Review” process is an important part of the Government’s reaction to a critical report into the future of light rail projects by the all-party Public Accounts Committee last year. Transport Minister, Derek Twigg – who has responsibility for light rail, has said that all projects must now undergo rigorous health checks at critical stages of project development to make sure they are fit to move forward. Speaking about the report, Cllr Gary Clarke, Centro=PTA chairman, said: “This was a detailed and independent investigation into the state of our plans, with some very searching questions. The fact that we passed with flying colours sends a clear message to the Secretary of State that we have a robust and deliverable project for improving public transport in the West Midlands.” The review was carried out by the Government-supported reviews body 4ps. Included on their panel of experts were senior figures from project management, civil engineering and audit backgrounds, most of whom had been involved in similar schemes both in the UK and major international contracts. Members of the Centro-PTA team, project consultants and partners from Birmingham, Dudley and Sandwell councils were all questioned by the experts. Their report concluded that Centro-PTA had a strong approach to managing and dealing with the risks of such an ambitious and complex project and said the organisation should be congratulated for securing substantial external support and financial contribution. Cllr Roger Horton, Centro-PTA vice chair and lead member for Midland Metro said: “This is a highly successful outcome. The review could have given Metro expansion a red, amber or green light – and green means they are telling the Government we are on target to succeed. The expanded Midland Metro network will provide an excellent level of service for passengers. Frequent high-capacity trams will provide a real boost to the accessibility of Birmingham city centre and the Black Country - with excellent links between shops, homes, offices, rail stations and major new developments.”
Westfield have pledged their support for the new tram lines with a £36.5 million contribution towards the project which is currently expected to cost £268 million. This is the largest ever private sector contribution towards a light rail project in the UK. This agreement is the last to be completed for the 11km route which will leave the current Line One at Wednesbury and travel to Brierley Hill via Dudley town centre and the Merry Hill Centre.
Westfield Development Director, Peter Miller, said: “We are both delighted and proud to be playing a part in this tangible demonstration of Westfield’s commitment to this region. The Midland Metro extension will play an integral role in facilitating the economic growth and regeneration of the Black Country. The fact that Metro delivers an unparalleled 99 per cent reliability means that we are confident the returns on our investment will certainly be considerable – and will bring real benefit to everyone living, working or travelling within the Black Country.”
Other agreements for the line have already been signed by Centro-PTA with both Sandwell and Dudley Metropolitan Borough Councils. These detail their respective roles in funding, construction, operation and maintenance of the route.
Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA, said: “This vital agreement means the Midland Metro extension is another step closer to becoming a reality. The expanded network will provide an excellent level of service for passengers. Frequent high-capacity trams will provide a real boost to the accessibility of Birmingham city centre and the Black Country - with excellent links between shops, homes, offices, rail stations and major new developments. It will make a real impact on our campaign to cut congestion for everyone.”
The leader of Dudley Council, Cllr David Caunt, added: “The Midland Metro extension is a very exciting prospect for local people. Today’s announcement shows how important the Metro is to business and the local economy. It’s also great for the people of Dudley and the Black Country who will gain from the regeneration, jobs and other benefits it will bring.”
Centro-PTA Chairman, Cllr Gary Clarke said: “Geoff describes himself as a ‘passenger champion’ and that’s exactly the sort of person we want – who can provide a strategic lead at a critical time for transport in the West Midlands, but never forget that the interests of passengers must always come top of our agenda. This is a challenging time for our city region with the increasing cost of congestion, the possibility of some innovative solutions on the horizon and the ever greater need for an integrated system of road and track just to keep our people and economy on the move.”
Mr Inskip, who is 52, said: ““I am taking on one of the biggest jobs in public transport and I am relishing the challenge. The West Midlands has ambitious plans in place and it will be my task to deliver these at the head of an organisation that will champion the interests of regional passengers and businesses.”
His departure at the GMPTE, leaves a hole as he had been acting as Director General due to the long term absence of Chris Mulligan through illness. An insider at the GMPTE told the Manchester Evening News: “We are very pleased for Geoff but it obviously leaves us with a problem."
Gillian Baird, owner of Harburn Hobbies on Elm Row, said: “We are not against progress or the trams. We have all built our businesses up over a number of years with the parking situation the way it is. A lot of businesses have come to this area because of the parking situation. We feel that unless we can keep the status quo, it will be disastrous. The work for the trams could go on for four years, which will be difficult enough for us to cope with, business-wise. But if they at least let us keep the parking spaces, it could offset some of the losses we are going to suffer.”
A survey of 70 shop owners and over 300 customers has revealed that 45% of customers say that they would stop shopping on Leith Walk if the parking bays were taken away.
A spokesman for tie said: “We are engaged with traders in Leith Walk in an extensive three-phase consultation exercise which will run until the end of the year during which businesses have ample opportunity to tell us what they feel is needed in relation to parking and loading. We have already completed the first phase of consultation and traders have put their views to us. These will be fed into the design process and we will then consult again on what is being proposed. There is no doubt that parking and loading facilities will be factored into the design."
2533 has returned to service, eight months after the New Addington incident (the one which saw the RAIB report released last week). This now brings Tramlink up to their full quota of 24 trams, with 22 required for service each day.
The points at Church Street in Croydon town centre experienced problems on Sunday 16 July when they failed to indicate the PPI. A pointsman was put on duty and despite attention to the problem by Mowlem he remained in situ at the start of last week.
* For full details on the above stories and further news including extra trams for Croydon Festival check out Unofficial Croydon Tramlink website.
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The final member of the Centenary Car class in Blackpool has now had its mid-life refurbishment - 648. This tram features yet another design with an attempt made to kee the ends similar to original build to help any future restoration attempt. The tram has also become another tram to just have a plain base coat awaiting a new all over advertising contract. 648 is seen here at Bispham on 18 July 2006.
Photo: Alan Robson |
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RAIB REPORT RELEASED INTO TRACK WORKER NEAR MISS IN MANCHESTER Sunday 23 July 2006 The Rail Accident Branch have released a report into the near miss of two track workers on the Manchester Metrolink system near to Radcliffe station. The incident happened on the morning of 8 November 2005 and the two workers were replacing fishplates on a segregated part of the tramway and were given inadequate warning of the approach of a tram, but did manage to reach a position of safety just in time. The workers left a large tool on the track which they were unable to retrieve in time, and the approaching tram (1016) struck this. After the incident communications between the control room, tram drivers and the track persons became confused. No party reached a clear understanding and neither trams nor the worksite were protected while work was completed. The immediate cause of the incident was that there was an inadequate safe system of work that was adopted. Particularly there was insufficient time available for a lookout to sight an approaching tram and give warning to the track persons. Contributory factors were: The report also lists some underlying causes mostly concerned with the working practices of Serco Metrolink. Nine recommendations were made by the report: The full report can be found here.
2538 was heading towards New Addington at 0816 when it passed a signal which was displaying stop. The tram came to a stop partially blocking the adjacent line to Croydon. Around the same time 2533 left New Addington on this partially blocked line. The brakes were only applied when the two trams were about 1.5m from each other and there was a collision between the two.
CCTV footage from the cab of 2533 (available on the main RAIB report – link below) shows the foggy conditions encountered on this morning and how visibility was affected with the silhouette of 2538 not being immediately visible.
The immediate cause of the incident was that the driver of the second tram did not react in a timely manner to the obstruction on the line. The report also details other contributing factors to the collision: As usual after a RAIB report, they have made a number of recommendations, which should be investigated by the relevant companies and authorities: The full report can be found here.
Speaking to the Unofficial Croydon Tramlink website, Roger Harding, General Manager of TCL, said: “The actual problem is a rail joint between the points and the running rail on the western side of East Croydon Station tramstop as it affects the running rail that serves Tramlink's northern most tram stop platform. We have been monitoring this joint for some two months and, based on an assessment of what could be observed from the surface, had prepared a programme of remedial measures for the week end of the 8th and 9th July. On Thursday 6th July, we conducted a further inspection in the presence of one the HMRI inspectors and it became obvious that the joint had deteriorated in an unexpected and more severe manner and thus concluded the remedial work planned was unlikely to solve the problem. We thus decided immediately to re-route Eastbound trams via the island platform.”
It looks likely that the platform shall remain closed for a while. Barriers have been erected on Platform 1, at each end, so no access can be made to the closed platform.
Mr Gallagher said: “The specifications that we have given to the four bidders are extremely demanding. Edinburgh requires and deserves the best trams that it can get and the process to achieve that starts now.“
The Invitation to Tender Notice (ITN) was issued on 7 July and the four companies short listed (Siemens, Bombardier, Alstom and CAF) now have three months to respond. The full specification is: Mr Gallagher added: “Edinburgh offers specific challenges for the tram manufacturers. Our trams will be the biggest in the UK at over 40m long and will need to negotiate tight curves and steep gradients. They’ll also have to fit with Edinburgh itself – we’re looking for a timeless and attractive appearance that will complement the streets the trams will be travelling on. In addition, we’ve asked that the tram passengers are given a world class travelling experience and have specified over 200 passenger capacity per tram, excellent ride quality, low noise, smooth acceleration and braking, state of the art security features and information panels. Of course, the trams will also be at the cutting edge in terms
of facilities for the disabled. Anything less than the best will not be accepted. I’m hugely excited that we can now begin this process and begin to put in place the first tangible components of the tram system. I’m looking forward to seeing what imaginative and innovative bids we will receive in September.”
David Mackay, Chairman of Transport Edinburgh Limited commented: “I’m very encouraged by tie’s approach to tram procurement for Edinburgh. Real progress is now being made and we’re entering a new and exciting phase of the project. Transport Edinburgh will assume responsibility for the tram system once it is delivered by tie and we have every confidence that tie will ensure world class trams will be running on Edinburgh’s streets.”
It was also revealed that serious consideration is currently being taken into how fares will be collected, and that using conductors (as in Nottingham and Sheffield) has not been ruled out. Mr Mackay said: “A final decision on ticketing has still to be taken but our view is that at busy times, when you have over 200 people coming on and off a tram, then you will need some sort of conductor or inspector present."
The project will now run the title “Edinburgh Trams”, although a decision has not yet been taken on what livery the trams will carry. Details are currently being finalised on the business plan, which should be presented to the Scottish Executive and City Council by the end of this year.
Speaking on the business plan, Mr Mackay added: “There will be no chance of us over-selling our patronage numbers to get the business case approved. We have to get this spot on and I am confident that the people of Edinburgh will have a tram network they can be proud of by the time we are finished. A huge amount of effort has gone into getting the specifications right because these trams have to last for the best part of 30 years. We are blessed in Edinburgh with an excellent bus network and integrating with this is crucial."
2007 marks the Centenary of the Llandudno and Colwyn Bay Electric Railway and the Society are currently planning special events for the year, of which they will announce details nearer to the time.
The Society have in their possession three trams, none of which were originally L&CBER trams (the only surviving tram to operate on the North Wales coast is Bournemouth 85 (ex-L&CBER 6), which is on display at the Museum of Electricity in Christchurch, Dorset). The three trams are: The original plan for the Society was to restore 7 into operational condition for eventual service on a proposed short line somewhere on the North Wales coast. However, after a while it was discovered that the condition of the tram body was in such a poor state that it would never be able to operate. It was at this stage that a second ex-Bournemouth tram body became available (Bournemouth 86). 7 is to be made presentable for the 2007 Centenary events, and should be roadworthy, meaning it can be hauled around the streets of the local area. It is likely to incorporate several parts which will eventually be used in the restoration of 6.
The new tram 6 is being rebuilt to a high standard by a professional coachbuilder and a mechanical and electrical engineer over the next few years. It is the ultimate intention that this tram will be operated on a short line somewhere in the Llandudno or Colwyn Bay area.
The third fleet member - Lisbon 305 - was purchased with the intention of using the bogies under 7. However, this project now abandoned they are likely to be used under 6. It is painted in the former L&CBER colours and was on public display at the Llandudno Transport Festival of 2000.
That is the basic situation at the moment with the projects of the Llandudno and Colwyn Bay Tramway Society. For further details on their project, the chance to become a member and to help them out through purchasing items check out the website (link below).
* If you are a member of a tramway group, and would like publicity for your restoration project please email us.
To clarify the new timetable, although official literature shows Lines 1 and 2 (Elmers End and Beckenham Junction) as separate routes, they will in fact be operated as one. It is expected that the trams will change from Line 1 to 2 (and of course vice versa) at East Croydon when heading westbound. New ticketing posters have now been put up at all stops, although posters advising of the change in routes have not yet appeared.
For all the latest news from the Croydon Tramlink network, including more on the above stories visit the Unofficial Croydon Tramlink website.
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In a week that there has been good news for Manchester we show a view of a new bridge that is by the tramway on the approach to Piccadilly Station. 1001 - in the new livery style - is shown here on the approach to Piccadilly with the bridge providing the backdrop.
Photo: Gordon Ferguson |
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IT’S THE LITTLE BANG! – METROLINK PHASE 3A IS GO! Sunday 9 July 2006 The news that Manchester has been waiting for since the “Big Bang” was rejected by the government two years ago has finally been revealed by the Department for Transport – plans for extensions to Metrolink can go-ahead. The news was revealed as the headline story from the mass amount of funding released by the DfT to the English regions this week. The “Little Bang”, as it has now been rechristened, will see extensions built to Oldham and Rochdale stations, Droylsden and Chorlton. However, the proposed lines into the town centres of Oldham and Rochdale, as well as Ashton-under-Lyne, East Didbsury and Manchester Airport (Phase 3b) will have to wait. These plans will be submitted to the Transport Innovation Fund next year as part of the plans to significantly improve public transport across Greater Manchester. It is planned to put these plans in next July with a decision expected by December 2007. Funding for Phase 3a will mainly come from the DfT, although the Droylsden extension will be solely funded by the GMPTE. It is hoped that construction on this phase could start within two years with the first trams running in 2010. Cllr Roger Jones, chairman of the GMPTA said: “This is fantastic news for Greater Manchester and I'd like to thank everyone who has given their support to the 'Get Our Metrolink Back On Track' initiative over the past two years. Metrolink has been massively popular since it began operating in 1992 and nearly 20 million journeys are made by passengers using the service every year. We must now forge ahead to secure the rest of Phase 3 and I am confident we will get further funding next year from the government's Transport Innovation Fund." Douglas Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, seemed to acknowledge how the strength of feeling over the rejection two years ago surprised the DfT: “The Metrolink matters to Manchester. To build on it is something that the Manchester travelling public want. We have been working closely with Manchester PTE and the local authorities to deliver a tram that is value for passengers and the taxpayer." A joint statement from Lord Peter Smith (Leader of AGMA), Sir Richard Leese (Deputy Leader of AGMA) and Cllr Roger Jones said: “This announcement, about partnership funding for Metrolink, is a major boost to Greater Manchester's economy. The last few years have created uncertainty and, whilst we know that Metrolink is not the complete answer to all our transport problems, we can be confident that this expansion of the network will become a reality. We wish to place on record our thanks to the many organisations and people who have worked alongside us over the past couple of years to get Metrolink 'Back on Track'. We have certainly achieved that objective with this announcement today. Metrolink is now taking off!" As well as the funding being made firmly available for Phase 3a Douglas Alexander revealed that work will be able to start to replace the track on the line between Bury and Altrincham. It is believed that the only proviso for the funding is that costs are kept under control – something GMPTE are confident being able to achieve. The scheme will have to go back to the DfT once the procurement process has been undertaken and firm costs are known. At a Glance: What’s been approved: * For links to the maps detailing the Metrolink extensions click here.
After the announcement of the award of money it was revealed by Steve Burd, Managing Director of Blackpool Transport, just what state the infrastructure of the tramway was in. He said: “This is extremely good news. Over the last few weeks the track has been deteriorating rapidly again particularly on certain sections between Manchester Square and South Pier. Because of this we have had to have a four mile per hour speed limit on parts of the Promenade. Without major track replacement work this winter it must be doubtful if we could run tram services next summer."
It is expected that this £11.8 million will cover replacement of life expired track and a new electrical substation in Fleetwood. It is hoped that work on the track will be able to start as soon as November with the section from Manchester Square to Pleasure Beach likely to be at the start of the queue for attention. This section of track was in the headlines earlier this year when Standard 147 had to be stored because of fear of derailment over deteriorating track.
£10.7 million of this funding will come from the government with the remainder coming from Blackpool Council and Lancashire County Council.
Gordon Marsden, Blackpool South MP, who has been lobbying at Parliament for help for the tramway commented: “The logic of giving us almost £12m to keep the show on the road is that in due course there will be more money for the more ambitious parts of the scheme. We need to pocket the £11.8m and do the necessary work and continue to lobby for the rest."
Cllr Roy Fisher, Blackpool Council Leader added: “Today's news is a milestone in our journey and is also good news for local residents who use the tram network to travel up and down the coast. The Blackpool tram is an important part of our heritage and I'm sure will play an important part in the way we celebrate our traditions. After today's announcement we can carry out the emergency work forming the foundation needed to create a modern public transport system."
P>Blackpool must still play the waiting game as to whether their bid to upgrade the tramway to light rail standards is given the go-ahead – this award is separate from that bid. Lobbying will now continue for this project, and they believe that this money award is a good sign. Blackpool’s director of tourism and regeneration, Jackie Potter said: “Yesterday we got the funding for the scheme's first two or three years. We had argued that without that, the trams would not be operating or would not be efficient. With that money the council can do the renewal work on the track and on the electrical infrastructure. But there is also provision within the profile of funding for the rest of our scheme and that is subject to final appraisal from Department of Transport officers. It's a really positive outcome."
It has been revealed that Mrs Potter and Cllr Fisher had meetings with Derek Twigg, Minister at the DfT, in early Summer to tell him how desperate the tramway was for the cash. It is believed that a decision on the £88 million scheme will not now be forthcoming until the autumn at the earliest.
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The latest all over advert in Blackpool is this one on Railcoach 680 for the Merrie England Bar on North Pier. The tram is seen at Gynn Square on 4 July 2006.
Photo: Alan Robson |
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NEW TIMETABLE FOR TRAMLINK FROM 23RD JULY Sunday 9 July 2006 The new Croydon Tramlink has been revealed as starting from Sunday 23 July – this is the first timetable change for just under five years and will also include the first ever change in the tram routes since the start of services back in May 2000. The new routes will be as follows with Wimbledon now getting Line 3 trams from New Addington and Elmers End services running round the Croydon loop: The section of Tramlink from Wimbledon to Croydon (the busiest part) will see an increase of trams from 6 an hour to 8 an hour but the New Addington line will see a slight reduction in trams (previously trams ran every 6-7 minutes). The Unofficial Croydon Tramlink website reports that 22 trams will be required to operate the service with 13 on the New Addington-Wimbledon service with layovers of 6 minutes at Wimbledon and 7 at New Addington. The remaining 9 trams will be employed on the Elmers End-Beckenham Junction via the Croydon loop routes and should include a 6 minute layover at Beckenham Junction and 7 minutes at Elmers End. For further details on the timetable change see the Unofficial Croydon Tramlink Website’s special page here.
In response to the funding for the West Midlands, and also across the country, members of Centro are optimistic for the future of Metro extensions – especially with the approval of Metrolink.
Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of Centro-PTA said: “We can show that the Metro expansion through Birmingham city centre and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via Dudley more than meets Department of Transport criteria so we have a very solid case for approval. This is helpful recognition from the Secretary of State that TIF funding is about a comprehensive set of proposals to tackle congestion and that major investment in public transport will be a crucial part of the package. We have got to keep the Government talking about an integrated transport system so that the West Midlands gets vital funding for improving rail, bus and tram networks. That is our best chance for boosting the regional economy and taking care of the environment too.”
Great care has been taken to attract sponsors who were in existence during the museum’s pre World War One timescale to ensure the authenticity of the adverts. There has, however, been one exception, with the Go-Ahead Group advert on Gateshead 10. This though is in a traditional style and is connected with this particular tramcar as Go-Ahead superseded 10’s original owners.
Other sponsors on the operational fleet are: Each advert will be in place for five years and provides a steady income stream for the upkeep of the tram fleet. The adverts have been sign-written by Phil Anderson in a traditional style.
A separate tramcar adoption scheme is also providing useful revenue and plans are now in hand for a detailed guidebook to the Beamish Tramway and related North Eastern systems.
* The running fleet at Beamish for summer 2006 consists of 10, 16, 3`, 114 and 196. The high capacity of 10 and open top nature of 31 and 114 ensure their continued popularity with visitors to the Museum.
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Sunderland 16 basks in the sunshine outside Beamish's Foulbridge Tram Depot on July 3rd 2006 during a crew lunch break. Fred Williamsons have sponsored the advertising panels on this car, so producing useful revenue for the maintenance of the fleet. Photo: Paul Jarman |
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DLR GETS TOP RAIL AWARD Sunday 9 July 2006 The Docklands Light Railway has been awarded one of the UK’s leading railway awards – the overall 2006 Railway Innovation Award. The DLR won for its “Delivering a successful railway through effective partnerships” entry. The entry highlighted the pivotal role that DLR’s liaison with key partners has played in making the railway as successful as it is today. This has included the franchisee Serco Docklands working alongside the three concessionaires who have built or are building extensions to its network and the local communities that it serves. Ian Brown, Managing Director of London Rail, commented: “This award is a tremendous achievement and I would like to congratulate Jonathan Fox, Director DLR, his staff and the railway's key partners for the role they have played in making the DLR a genuine success story. The DLR has consistently set the standard for service, accessibility and delivery, and as a consequence fully deserves such prominent recognition." It is claimed that the partnerships shown across the DLR network have made the system: The Director of DLR, Jonathan Fox, added: “We are absolutely delighted to pick up this award, which is a fitting tribute to the unprecedented accomplishments achieved via the close relationships we have fostered. Our successful collaboration with residents and users, combined with effective partnerships at construction and operational level, has set new standards for the rail industry.As the railway continues to grow over the next few years through projects such as the Woolwich Arsenal extension, Stratford International extension and the upgrade from two to three-car, we look forward to further developing these relationships and continuing to offer our customers an unbeatable service."
Judges praised the local authorities for delivering the massive transport infrastructure project through effective public-private partnerships. Nottinghamshire County Council Deputy Leader, Cllr Michael Storey and NET Project Leader Pat Armstrong accepted the award on behalf of the County and City councils.
Chris Wilson, 4ps Executive Director commented: “We were very impressed with NET Line One. It is a particularly innovative example of a highly successful PFI project that has made a real difference to the residents of Greater Nottingham and the East Midlands.”
It is believed that NET has acted as a call to action for Nottingham to realise its ambitions. The award winning partnership brought about the largest Public Finance Initiative in the UK, proving that not only can Nottingham think big they can deliver big too. Cranes on the skyline of the city are often within 500 metres of the tram tracks and tell the story of the city reinventing itself.
Cllr Michael Edwards, Nottingham City Council Deputy Leader said: “We only hope that Line One’s success, both as a form of transport and regeneration catalyst, will help persuade the Government to give the green light to NET Phase Two.”
Cllr Storey added: “The partnership of the two local authorities has been incredibly effective and it’s great this has been recognised. The partnership has been successful because everyone stayed focussed on a common goal – to deliver the best possible tram system for the people of Greater Nottingham and beyond.”
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Illustration of one of the "Supersquare" adverts now adorning the centre cars of some of the trams in Nottingham. One such one is this for Fill My Belly on 211.
Photo: Peter Courtenay |
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RESIDENTS STILL UNHAPPY OVER PECKHAM TRAM DEPOT PLAN Sunday 9 July 2006 Plans for a depot in Peckham for the proposed Cross River Transit scheme have now been scaled down but this has not prevented local residents and businesses in the area from showing concern about what will happen to the earmarked plot. At Southwark Council’s Executive and Assembly meetings at the end of June it was agreed that a site between Rye Lane and Consort Road should be reserved for a depot holding fewer trams. A Government Inspector had previously recommended that this should not be the only depot. TfL have now accepted this and are now looking for a smaller site in London. Residents and Businesses are still concerned about what will happen to the Peckham plot, which currently has 40 businesses, 60 artist studios, six African churches and an art gallery. They believe that it is far too early to earmark the land for the depot before TfL reveals more detailed proposals. Eileen Conn, a member of Peckham Vision (who part own the land), said: “TfL's new plans for the tram depot in the heart of Peckham town centre could have devastating effects on homes, jobs, businesses, artists and other community uses, and blight the town centre for years. We just don't know exactly what the effects will be because no information has been released about these new plans." The campaigners believe the depot would cause a loss of 500 jobs, although councillors in Southwark believe it would create more opportunities for employment. The Cross River Transit would link Kings Cross and Camden with Peckham and Brixton and would likely cost around £641 million. It is planned that the tramway would open in 2016, if given the go-ahead.
In an early day motion at the House of Commons, Alan Simpson (MP for Nottingham South), said: “This House congratulates Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram partnership in winning a regeneration award for its contribution to economic revival in parts of Nottingham; recognises that Nottingham NET is the most financially and operationally successful tram partnership in the country; and looks forward to Government confirmation of support for Lines 2 and 3."
These views are echoed by the pro-tram group BACIT with campaigner Steve Barber saying: “The indecision is affecting lots of people. House sales are blighted, people are having their lives messed up, but we have had no inclination of when a decision will come."
It is hoped that the recent award won by NET from 4ps (see separate story) will boost their position for the go-ahead. Cllr John Taylor said: “"If the government is to fund any tram system in the country, it will be Nottingham. This is the most successful tram system in the country financially, we are the most successful operationally. We meet all our passenger targets, we meet our punctuality and cleanliness targets - it has succeeded beyond anybody's expectations."
In reply to this a spokesman from the Department for Transport said: “We hope to announce something shortly." Although if this shortly is not within the next three weeks there will be more delays with Parliament going onto their summer holidays.
Balloon 712 has returned to service following the fitting of a set of overhauled trucks. It underwent tests on 10 June and was back in passenger service on 17 June.
Sister 717 still remains stored in the depot awaiting further work on its overhaul. It has seen very limited attention since it was transferred to its new underframe earlier this year. It is reported that once work on this tram is completed that another example will be overhauled, although it is yet to be confirmed which tram this would be.
Brush 636 remains stored on track 1 in the depot awaiting expected movement to Derby for experimental purposes. The tram now has seating removed from one saloon and windows in this half frosted over with the motors and trolley tower also removed.
Unimog 938 - the latest addition to the works fleet – now appears ready for service after conversion and the fitting of the inspection tower from the scrapped 940. 941 which did get a brief reprieve has now been stored out at Layton, and is thought to be redundant again.
* The only way to get monthly news in depth on the Blackpool Tramway is to become a member of the Fylde Tramway Society. As well as the monthly Fylde Tramway News there are regular tram tours and meetings. For more details see here or here.
At last report only two trams remained without the new electronic destination blinds - 2532 and 2538. The latest four trams to receive them have been 2552, 2545, 2534 and 2551.
The Railgrinder departed the Tramlink network on Thursday 22 June having completed its work from Reeves Corner around the loop to Sandilands and Beckenham Junction to Arena.
The last few weeks have seen another spate of accidents affecting Tramlink, although not directly involving the trams. On Monday 12 June trams were not operating around the Croydon loop because of a fatal incident involving a lorry and a pedestrian in Wellesley Road. Trams terminated at East Croydon and Reeves Corner with Line 3 (New Addington) reversing in the centre platform at East Croydon and Lines 1 and 2 at the George Street crossover.
Another incident occurred on 26 June when a BMW crashed into a tram signal by the eastbound carriageway crossing of Kent Gateway. The signal was demolished and the car blocked the tramway with the driver having to be cut out from his vehicle. It is reported that it took 40 minutes to remove the driver from the incident and yet the tramway was closed for four hours. During the closure trams ran from New Addington to Addington Village and from Croydon to Lloyd Park with tickets accepted on local buses.
* For more on these stories and other news, including Temporary Speed Restrictions across the Tramlink network, visit the Unofficial Croydon Tramlink website.
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