When the war in Europe ended in May 1945 and the war against Japan in the September work on the network gradually got back to normal, or so everyone thought it would.
Extensions of the network would require at least 18 more Trams to be purchased. New trams were virtually non existent so the option to buy second hand was made. As South Shields had closed its tramway system , Sunderland purchased a 1935 car from them and overhauled it ready for operation. A further 6 came from Manchester whom had abandoned there system also. The last tram was bought from Bury in Lancashire in 1947.
Ironically , this was the year that it was decided to scrap the Trams mainly due to the anticipated increase in motor vehicles now that the war had ended. New Trams, construction of new track as well as replacement of overhead cables were very expensive and the Tramways Committee were advised of the anticipated reduction in passengers.
The new labour party which had recently taken control of the Town Council from the Progressives passed a resolution that any further extensions to tramcar routes to be operated by motor buses.
Extensions of the network would require at least 18 more Trams to be purchased. New trams were virtually non existent so the option to buy second hand was made. As South Shields had closed its tramway system , Sunderland purchased a 1935 car from them and overhauled it ready for operation. A further 6 came from Manchester whom had abandoned there system also. The last tram was bought from Bury in Lancashire in 1947.
Ironically , this was the year that it was decided to scrap the Trams mainly due to the anticipated increase in motor vehicles now that the war had ended. New Trams, construction of new track as well as replacement of overhead cables were very expensive and the Tramways Committee were advised of the anticipated reduction in passengers.
The new labour party which had recently taken control of the Town Council from the Progressives passed a resolution that any further extensions to tramcar routes to be operated by motor buses.
