London Transport Traction overcomes setbacks

THE London Transport Traction Group (LTTG), which has acquired former Island Line Class 483, LT 1938 Stock, Nos. 483006 and 483008 (RM Feb. p68), has encountered a few problems while the stock remains on the island. It is confident these matters can be resolved and the project to preserve them on the mainland is still on track. SWR informed the group on February 16 that car No. 226, of unit 006, had been attacked with graffiti, the entire east side being covered, with some also applied to the cab end of the car. It is hoped resources will be made available for the unit to be cleaned up by the time it is delivered to its new home.

Alternative home

Following further negotiations, the Epping Ongar Railway (EOR) has said the units are unable to be accepted there at present, for a variety of reasons. It is still hoped they may appear on the railway in the future, but will not be going there direct from Ryde. There has never been a formal agreement between the LTTG and EOR, and an arrangement is currently being made for alternative temporary accommodation in the London area. The group has been asked to remove the large quantity spare parts available from Ryde depot, but have been unable to take on some larger items, such as bogie frames. If the alternative accommodation for the units is confirmed in the coming weeks, it is hoped it will still be possible to accept some of the larger components.