Description
Blackpool Marton Tram Depot Kit Release
We are excited to announce the release of our Blackpool Marton Tram Depot Kit! This 1/76 scale (OO gauge) kit is the culmination of over a year of development, designed to bring an authentic touch of Blackpool’s tramway history to your model layout.
What’s Included in the Kit?
This kit includes everything you need to create a realistic and customizable tram depot:
- 3D Printed Components (in white PLA):
- 2 Side Walls
- 1 Front Wall
- 1 Back Wall
- 2 Roof Sections
- 1 V Roof Cap
- 1 Clear Light Shade
- 1 U Section (to hide wiring)
- Stickers:
- 2 Side Wall Stickers (brick pattern)
- 2 Roof Stickers
- 1 Back Wall Sticker
- 1 Coat of Arms
- Lighting Kit:
- 3 Pre-tested 3mm LEDs
- Clear Plastic Windows:
- For roof windows to allow natural light effects.
Customization Options
- Use the included stickers for quick and accurate detailing.
- Paint the depot in your own colours to match your layout’s aesthetic.
Important Lighting Information
The lighting kit includes 3mm LEDs for interior illumination, but please note:
- Soldering Required: You’ll need to solder the wires to the LED legs.
- Power Source Not Included: You must provide your own power supply and wiring.
- The LEDs are 3V DC and compatible with a 3V lithium button cell or equivalent.
- If using higher voltage, ensure you use a resistor to step down to 3V DC.
Please Note: We no longer supply button cell holders due to reliability issues, but these are easily available from Amazon or other outlets.
Assembly Instructions
- Painting (Optional): If painting the depot, we recommend doing this before assembly.
- Wall Assembly:
- Glue one side wall to an end wall.
- Attach the second side wall.
- Finish by gluing the remaining end wall in place.
- Roof Windows:
- Glue the clear plastic windows to the inside of each roof section.
- Ensure the windows are attached to the smooth side of the roof ( if you look at the window struts one side will be flush and smooth the other side they will be slightly recess you need to glue on the smooth side).
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- Roof Assembly:
- Attach the roof sections to the structure.
- Use the V Roof Cap to hide the joint between roof sections.
- Lighting Installation:
- Insert the LEDs into the holes in the clear light shade.
- Trim the LED legs, leaving enough to solder wires.
- Bend the legs into the shade grooves and solder the wires.
- Test the LEDs to ensure all are working.
- Attach the light shade to the highest part inside the roof.
- Run the wiring down the centre of the back wall.
- Use the U channel to hide the wiring by gluing it to the back wall.
- Sticker Application:
- Apply stickers as desired to bring the depot to life. (stickers will need to be cut out…. for the roof window cut out we use a steel ruler and a sharp craft knife).
Note: All LEDs are tested before shipping.
A History of Blackpool’s Marton Tram Depot
The Marton Tram Depot, situated in Blackpool, England, played a significant role in the town’s rich tramway heritage. Built in the early 20th century, the depot was part of the broader development of Blackpool’s renowned tram network, which remains a defining feature of the seaside resort.
The Growth of Blackpool’s Tram Network
Blackpool is famed for its tramway system, which began in 1885 and became one of the first electric tram systems in the world. As the network expanded, new lines and infrastructure were required to support the growing fleet of trams. The Marton Depot was constructed to serve the Marton route, which connected the town centre to the residential areas of Marton.
Construction and Features
The Marton Depot was designed to house and maintain the trams operating on the inland Marton route, as opposed to the coastal services that were centred around the larger depots. It featured a single-story structure with large entrances to accommodate trams and extensive facilities for basic maintenance and storage.
The building itself was utilitarian yet visually appealing, reflecting the industrial design aesthetics of the era. Its distinctive design made it a recognizable landmark for locals and tram enthusiasts alike.
The Marton Route
The Marton route was an important inland tramline that served the residential communities of Blackpool. Unlike the Promenade trams, which catered primarily to tourists, the Marton route was more focused on providing essential transport for residents. The trams operating on this route were often smaller, single-deck vehicles better suited to the narrower streets and lower passenger volumes.
Decline and Repurposing
With the rise of buses and changes in public transportation habits, the Marton tram route, along with many other inland tram services, was gradually phased out. By the mid-20th century, much of the Blackpool tram network had been reduced, and the Marton Depot ceased to function as a tram facility.
Over time, the depot and its associated infrastructure were either repurposed or demolished as Blackpool focused its tram operations on the coastal line, which remains a vital part of the town’s identity today.
Legacy and Preservation
Although the Marton Tram Depot is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who used the inland tram services and in the passion of modelers and tramway enthusiasts. The depot represents an important chapter in Blackpool’s transportation history, showcasing the evolution of public transit in a bustling seaside town.
Today, model kits like the oo3DModels Blackpool Marton Tram Depot help preserve the memory of this historic structure, allowing enthusiasts to recreate its charm and importance in their layouts.
Important Notes
- Scale: 1/76 (OO gauge).
- Power Source: Not included. Please supply your own power source and wiring.
- Skill Level: This kit requires basic soldering and assembly skills.
Thank You for Your Support!
We appreciate your patience and feedback as we developed this kit. The Blackpool Marton Tram Depot is a perfect addition to any tram enthusiast’s layout, whether you’re recreating history or adding a unique feature to your collection.
Important Notice
Please note that the trams depicted in the images are for illustration purposes only and are not included in this sale.
This listing is for the Marton Tram Depot kit only. The trams shown are to demonstrate the scale and potential use of the depot within a layout.
Thank you for your understanding. If you have any questions about the kit, feel free to get in touch!
Copyright Notice
© December 2024 oo3DModels. All rights reserved.
This kit, including its design, stickers, and associated materials, is the intellectual property of oo3DModels. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or use is strictly prohibited.
Order your Blackpool Marton Tram Depot Kit today and bring a piece of Blackpool’s tramway history to your layout!
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