Published Date:
19 March 2007
HOLD tight - a South Yorkshire transport museum is on the move.
Sheffield Bus Museum is leaving its premises at the old Tinsley Tram Sheds and moving down the road to Rotherham.
The move, after more than 15 years in Tinsley, follows an increase in funding which means the museum can expand its activities.
Museum bosses looked at various locations in South Yorkshire but eventually agreed on a new site at Aldwarke.
Museum development officer Bernard Jones said a move to new premises was inevitable.
"We spoke to several councils in the area, but advice, guidance and enthusiasm from Rotherham Industrial Development Office sold the town as the ideal destination. Even at initial enquiry stage there was a real level of commitment and passion."
The museum houses 20 vehicles originating from the Sheffield area, including full-size buses and various artefacts, including destination blinds, tram stops, old road signs, models, timetables and tickets.
The collection also includes a number of buses from other parts of the UK.
Some of the fully-restored vehicles have already been moved to the new 12,000 sq ft premises at Aldwarke and the rest will follow over the next few weeks.
As well as a new home, the museum also has a new name, The South Yorkshire Bus Museum. Bernard Jones said: "The new name reflects the broader appeal and also collection at the museum.
"And as part of this, we will also be applying to the Heritage Lottery Fund to help us realise our longer term goal of setting up a purpose built Transport Heritage Centre for South Yorkshire."
Rotherham Council leader Roger Stone, said: "We're delighted to be home to the museum.
"It really is important that these organisations get help to continue to teach generations of people about our heritage."
Once the museum is open visitors will be welcome every Saturday and Sunday, as well as a number of special Open Days throughout the year.
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Last Updated:
19 March 2007 8:42 AM
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Source:
Sheffield Star
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Location:
Sheffield