When the Douglas horse tramway on the Isle of Man operates for the last time in 2014 on Sunday 14th September, this will be more than just the end of another year for the oldest surviving street tramway in the British Isles. Due to a planned remodelling of the Douglas promenade, the tramway is expected to remain closed throughout 2015, and will be very different when it eventually does re-open.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
As reported previously, the tramway is to be re-laid as a single track with passing loops to replace the current double track, subject to final approval. This will be part of a major redevelopment of the seafront which will also include drainage works and rebuilding of the promenade road. The tramway will also be re-sited to the seaward side of the road. It is hoped that the work will be sufficiently complete for a tram service to resume in 2016, but with such a lengthy closure planned it has been decided to mark the end of the 2014 season with some low-key events. Therefore on the last day of operation, Sunday 14th September, the horse tramway’s stables will be opened up to visitors between 1400 and 1700 with a series of talks and free horse shoes being given away! The final tram of the season will be driven by Douglas Mayor Stan Cain; this is scheduled to depart from Strathallan\u00a0at 1720. All children will also be able to travel for free over the weekend.<\/p>\n
Although these changes will undeniably change the character of this very special tramway forever, at least the horse trams will remain a feature of the seaside town in spite of a sizeable decline in passenger numbers in the last few years. The reduction in the level of service that is required has contributed to the decision to relay with a single line, as this is all that is now needed. The casual staff employed on the tramway will obviously not be required in 2015, although some staff will naturally be kept on to care for the horses, who should be unaffected by the developments.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
When the Douglas horse tramway on the Isle of Man operates for the last time in 2014 on Sunday 14th September, this will be more than just the end of another year for the oldest surviving street tramway in the … Continue reading