Saltburn Tramway to reopen after major fire
The iconic, Grade II-listed Saltburn Tramway will reopen on Friday
The iconic, Grade II-listed Saltburn Tramway will reopen on Friday.
It was closed earlier this year - after a devastating fire in January caused extensive damage.
A decision has been taken to keep the Tramway open daily until January for a longer period than usual so residents and visitors may once again take their chance to enjoy Redcar and Cleveland’s most popular pay-for attraction.
The electrical fire started in the Grade-II listed pump room in January and caused extensive damage. A full rewire and replacement of bespoke equipment was needed as well as improvements to the control system. A full maintenance programme also took place.
Special permissions were also needed before the work could start due to the structure’s importance as part of the nation’s heritage. The Tramway, which opened in 1884 replacing a lift system, is thought to be the oldest water-balanced funicular (a counter-balanced, cable-operated railway) in the country and adjoins England’s most northerly pier.
Cllr Carrie Richardson, Cabinet Member for Climate and Culture and Deputy leader, said: “This is great news. The word ‘iconic’ can be overused but it is absolutely the right word for the Saltburn Tramway. It is famous across the country and has been much loved right here in the Tees Valley for many generations – so it’s wonderful to see it back to all its glory once again.
“It has been frustrating that the work took a long time, especially in the summer months. However, our visitors have understood that it had to be carefully restored and it needed specialist work done thoroughly. We also took the opportunity to undertake a full maintenance programme and we are keeping it open for longer hours every day until January. Come on down to Saltburn and enjoy the wonderful funicular once again!”
Saltburn Tramway is thought to be the oldest water-balanced funicular in the UK and the second oldest in the world. It was initially closed on 9 January for maintenance and the fire occurred on January 16.
The Tramway will be open from 10.30am on Friday 27 September until 31 October 2024, daily 10.30am – 5pm (closed 7 October for maintenance). It will then open from 1 November 2024 to 5 January 2025 daily 10.30am – 4pm (closed 4 November and 6 December for monthly maintenance. Closed Christmas Day).
A brief history of Saltburn Tramway:
28 June 1884: The tramway opened to the public. Built by Tangyes Engineering Company.
1924: The gas engine was replaced with a 20 horse power electric pump
1955: The carriage bodies were replaced without stained glass windows
1987: An emergency safety stop function was fitted
1989/90: The carriage overlooking Marske was rebuilt over winter following an accident when lowering the carriages for the winter period.
1990: The Bottom tank was emptied and the foot valve and pump was reconditioned.
1991: The Stained glass windows were reinstated to the carriages by Saltburn artist Chloe Buck.
1998: A Sheaf/Winding wheel was replaced and a hydraulic brake system was installed by Skelton Engineering.
2002: The tramways’ pump motors were rewound by Dowling & Mills of Middlesbrough.
2005: Feature lighting was fitted to the track.
2007: A new water pipeline was fitted
2009: The underneath plates of the carriage overlooking Saltburn were taken off and refurbished.
2010/11: Restoration work was carried out to the Tramway.
2015: The bottom station docking area was restored.
2017/18: The tramway closed for major refurbishment. Work included new railway sleepers and rails, scotch timbers, lifelines and escape route, carriages refurbishments, band brake, and safer access to winding chamber, water pipe and new fence at the top station.
Jan 2024: A major fire occurs in the pump room causing extensive damage
Sep 2024: The Tramway re-opens