Tram is back on right track

The Coronation tram currently under painstaking restoration at Summerlee dates back to 1939 and is one of only four of its kind left in existence.

Car 1245 – known as “Glasgow’s last tram”after being used to shunt other vehicles after services ceased in 1962, becoming the last to run in the city – will be the only one in the world operating for passengers when the work is completed.

Members of Summerlee’s transport group are currently seeking lottery and other grant funding to allow them to bring it back to the tracks at the Coatbridge museum in time for its 80th anniversary next year.

Known for its art deco fixtures and fittings, the historic tram was acquired by Summerlee for £1 back in 2006; and it lay in storage for six years before volunteers stepped in to restore it.

They have already spent three years stripping and refurbishing its four motors, followed by repairing the lower-deck bodywork, then manoeuvring the top deck back into position and strengthening the frame.

Next, they plan to work from top to bottom in refitting its interior, from windows and wiring to seats and decorative details; with many of the original fittings and fixtures such as glass lights and mechanical control features being carefully preserved and awaiting re-installation.

Group volunteer Charlie McAloon said:“It will be the only running one in the world once the work is finished, people will be coming from all over to see it.

“It’ll be a big thing to put something back to Coatbridge that was part of the town – they ran here until 1956 and there will be a sense of achievement when it’s finished.”

Fellow transport group member George Drain told the Advertiser:“The tram is an iconic heritage symbol, taking workers to factories and offices, children to school and families on outings.”