Lowestoft 14, the only local tram in the collection at the East Anglia Transport Museum, has been a long-term restoration project with it being worked on when time allows by the dedicated band of volunteers at the museum. Moved from the main tram depot to the West depot last year 14 has been out of sight of visitors since but it certainly isn’t a case of out of sight, out of mind – far from it!
Lowestoft 14 was built in 1904 and operated on a 3’6” gauge tramway which closed in 1931. Rescued for preservation the tram has long been resident at the Carlton Colville home of the East Anglia Transport Museum. However, it hasn’t yet run in preservation (although it has been regauged to standard gauge) with it waiting for the completion of its restoration before it can be considered to join the operating fleet.
When the work on 14 is completed – which does not have an estimated completion date at the present time – it will not only provide some local interest but will also provide an open top tram to run in good weather.
Amongst the jobs which have been completed on 14 since it was moved to the West depot has been to the paintwork. This image shows some of the intricate lining which makes up part of the livery.
Signwriting of the Lowestoft Corporation Tramways wording has also recently been added to the tram with a signwriter having visited the museum.
A look at one end of 14. There remains a fair bit of work to be completed on the wiring and controllers of the tram. (All Photographs by Tim Major, January/February 2025)
14 looks stunning! This will be up there with the best of restored vintage trams in the world when completed, no doubt about it. The paintwork looks beautiful!