Amended Preston tram plans for test Deepdale line lodged

One of the trams which could come to Preston, and an artist impression of the Deepdale station

Preston’s pilot tram line has seen a new planning application lodged.

Part of the former Longridge to Preston railway line is due to be brought back into use for by Preston Trampower.

Amended proposals have been lodged by PWA Planning, on behalf of Trampower, for reinstating a section of rail line in Deepdale.

Land at the former coal yard in Deepdale Street and land to the rear of St Chad’s Road in Deepdale will form the test line and station for the tram.

Where the tram track test line is to run Pic: Google

Trampower also want to remove 13 conditions imposed on them when the plans were given the nod by Preston City Council in November 2016.

The trams plan for the city has long proved controversial, with the city council repeatedly throwing out previous plans from Trampower before allowing the test line for the 1,250metre long track.

Eric Wright Construction were announced as the contractor to build the pilot tram line with work due to start in March 2018 but only clearing of the track has taken place so far.

The old railway line is being uncovered Pic: Simon Holmes

Trampower says it eventually wants to lodge plans for a 3.5 mile tram line linking Bluebell Way to the centre.

You can see the tram proposals on the city council website.