Trams set to run through city park again in 2026

People will once again be able to enjoy an electric tram ride through Manchester's biggest park after a cash boost.

Manchester City Council has set aside £481,000 for the restoration of the 1901 Heaton Park tramway, which has been out of action for a year as the electrical substation that powers it needed a safety overhaul.

The upgrade should see the tramway restart in spring 2026, in time for its 125th anniversary, a council spokesperson said.

Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon said the vintage trams "hold a special place in the hearts of many people, and I'm delighted that it will be up and running again in time for the 125th anniversary".

The upgrade should see the trams continue to run safely "for many years to come", the council said.

Volunteers at Manchester Transport Museum Society (MTMS) have worked with the council to maintain and run them since 1979.

Geoff Senior, MTMS chairman, said the cash injection was "wonderful news for our volunteers" and represented a "huge vote of confidence in the hard work and dedication they have shown in the last almost 50 years".

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