Historic Brighton Tram Could Return To Tracks In Stanmer Park

(c) Brighton 53 Tram Society

A group of tram enthusiasts hopes to bring a piece of Brighton's transport history back to life with plans for a tram line, museum and workshop in Stanmer Park.

The Brighton 53 Tram Society has spent the past 16 years restoring Tram 53, one of the city's original electric trams, and now wants to relocate to Home Farm in Stanmer Village.

The group hopes to create a workshop, visitor attraction and short tram route within the former farmyard, with ambitions to eventually extend the line towards Stanmer House.

Society founder Guy Hall said the project would be self-funded and could become a major attraction for visitors.

He said:

"We think this will be brilliant for Brighton."

The restoration of Tram 53 has already cost thousands of pounds, with volunteers raising around £130,000 towards the wider project, which is expected to cost about £750,000.

Brighton & Hove City Council has recently advertised buildings and land at Home Farm for lease and says the tram society is welcome to submit an expression of interest alongside other applicants.

A council spokesperson said it welcomes creative ideas for the site and would consider the proposal if supported by a fully developed business plan.