All aboard revamped Seaton No. 9
CAR No. 9 at the Seaton Tramway in Devon has been modified to provide an enclosed accessible bay, suitable for use in all weather conditions.
Previously, like sister cars Nos. 10 and 11, the middle section of the tram had opensided accessible bays, but these left passengers more exposed to the elements.
No. 9 was the first of the three cars to be built by Bolton Trams Ltd (trucks and other fittings being added by Seaton Tramway at its own workshops) incorporating design elements from Plymouth and Blackburn vehicles, originally entering service in 2004.
The recent conversion work was carried out entirely inhouse at its Riverside depot, led by the tramway’s engineering manager Lee Taylor, who also designed the modifications.
“It was a privilege to lead this initiative, and I’m thrilled to see tram number nine creating a new passenger experience on our lovely tramway,” said Mr Taylor. “Seeing the project completed ahead of schedule, before the winter season, has been a great accomplishment.”
The tramway’s monthlong programme of Polar Express tram rides runs until Christmas Eve. It reopens from December 27-January 1, with a 20-minute service interval between 10.00 and 16.00.
It is hoped that the neighbouring former Seaton Jurassic Centre, which closed in 2021 after its original operator Devon Wildlife Trust withdrew from the site, will reopen under Seaton Tramway ownership for the 2024 season. To be known as Jurassic Discovery, it will use animatronics and the latest technology to explain the story of the dinosaurs and highlight local Jurassic coastal areas of present day interest.
East Devon District Council’s Cabinet agreed to the sale in October and the process is expected to be completed in the next few months.