Historic cliff tramway close to being back on track

The reopening of one of Britain’s oldest working funicular railways is now in sight following a key milestone in its refurbishment.

Saltburn Cliff Tramway’s newly built carriages have been returned to the tracks ahead of final testing, commissioning and driver training, with the attraction expected to reopen within the next fortnight.

In an early morning crane operation, the bespoke carriages were carefully lifted back onto the historic railway, marking one of the final stages of an investment programme to secure the future of the Victorian landmark.

First opened in 1884, Saltburn Cliff Tramway is the oldest water-balanced funicular still operating in Britain.

It has carried millions of passengers between the town, pier and beach over more than 140 years, becoming one of the defining symbols of the North Yorkshire seaside town.

The replacement carriages have been handcrafted by specialist Teesside craftsmen after the original carriage bodies reached the end of their operational life following decades of exposure to the coastal environment.

While faithfully recreating the tramway’s distinctive appearance, the new carriages incorporate a series of engineering upgrades designed to support the attraction for decades to come.

These include a new hydraulic braking system, upgraded buffers, improved door mechanisms and enhanced hydraulic equipment.

Passengers will also benefit from timber interiors, arched ceilings and larger stained-glass windows framing views across the coastline.

Two stained-glass panels created by local artist Chloe Buck in 1991 have been restored and incorporated into the new carriages, with the remaining panels due to be installed in the coming months.

The return of the carriages marks one of the final milestones in the refurbishment programme, bringing the reopening of one of the region’s best-known heritage attractions a significant step closer.

Councillor Carrie Richardson, deputy leader of Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and cabinet member for climate and culture, said: “This is a day so many people have been looking forward to. 

“Watching the new carriages return to the tracks is special. 

“Saltburn Cliff Tramway isn’t just a way of getting from the town to the seafront, it’s part of the identity of Saltburn and generations of families have memories of riding it.

“The specialist work that has gone into creating these bespoke carriages is exceptional. 

“Every detail has been carefully considered to honour the tramway’s heritage while ensuring it can continue carrying passengers for many years to come.

“We’re now into the final stretch. 

“There’s still important testing and staff training to complete but seeing the carriages back where they belong is a huge moment and we can’t wait to welcome passengers back very soon.”

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