Nelson Corporation Tramways

Summary

Nelson Corporation Tramways operated a tramway service in Nelson, Lancashire between 1903 and 1934.[1]

Nelson Corporation Tramways
Map of the tramways of Burnley, Padiham, Nelson and Colne
Operation
LocaleNelson, Lancashire
Open23 February 1903
Close6 January 1934
StatusClosed
Infrastructure
Track gauge4 ft (1,219 mm)
Propulsion system(s)Electric
Depot(s)Charles Street
Statistics
Route length2.74 miles (4.41 km)

History edit

The tramway was authorised by the Nelson Light Railway Order of 1901

The tramway route ran along the Leeds Road from the town centre to the boundary with Colne (to connect with the Colne and Trawden Light Railway.[2] It also connected with the Burnley Corporation Tramways network. There was also a branch line, from Scotland Road to Higherford Bridge.

Electricity was supplied from Nelson power station.

In 1912, the company obtained two low height tramcars which could pass underneath the low bridge carrying the railway in Colne, and through services to Colne were initiated.

In 1924, the Barrowford section of the tramway was relaid after a proposal to substitute with buses was rejected.[3]

Fleet edit

The company livery was red and white. Eight vehicles were purchased as follows:

Closure edit

The system closed on 6 January 1934.

References edit

  1. ^ The Golden Age of Tramways. Published by Taylor and Francis.
  2. ^ The Electrical engineer: Volume 32, 1903
  3. ^ The Electrical journal, Volume 92, 1924