THE Great Orme tramway in Llandudno could run all year round if local businesses got their way.
A town councillor has called for a re-think of tram operation following the investigation into last year’s collision on the hillside.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has issued a report of the accident on the Conwy Council run attraction in which a tram derailed, injuring one person.
Now town councillor Mark Jones has said that the incident could provide an opportunity to look at the running of the tram system with a view to attracting more tourists outside the normal holiday season.
Cllr Jones of the Gogarth ward said: “At the moment the tram is shut for five months of the year. I’m looking at how we can allow the tram to run for longer. It runs at a profit and it may be possible to get capital and grants.”
Mr Jones said that any extension of the tram running time would be a boost to the local economy as it is a major tourist draw.
Andrew McNamara, who runs the Annan Hotel on Abbey Road, said that a number of businesses had met to request that the tram operating times should be extended.
Ideas such as lengthening the operating season, putting on night trams and special Santa trams at Christmas have been suggested.
He said: “We wanted them to run from February half term to October half term. February is very busy for the town. The trams run all year in Blackpool. I think we could at least get a few more weeks a year here.”
Alison Owen has run the Fish Tram Chips shop on Llandudno Old Road for six years alongside husband Steve.
Mrs Owen said: “The town markets itself all year round and the tram is one of the most important attractions.
“They say they have to close for essential maintenance but it was lack of maintenance which caused the crash. They can’t have it both ways.”
The investigation found that: “There was a lack of both comprehensive risk assessment of the points and competent safety audits”.
The report recommended that Conwy Council conduct a technical evaluation of the points and crossings and ensure that comprehensive and competent audits are carried out to identify maintenance deficiencies.
Derwyn Owen, Head of Engineering and Design Services at Conwy Council said that the engineering works had already been completed and work was ongoing towards fully addressing the other recommendations contained in the report.
He said: “This year, the Great Orme Tramway opened as usual at Easter and has enjoyed a successful summer and we hope the rest of the season is just as busy.”
However, a Conwy Council spokesperson said there were no current plans to extend the tram operating season.