1906
During the previous year inquiries had been made of other municipalities as to their experience in the operation of motor buses, principally with a view to motorbus operation on the Carlton Road service, as Bamford was under no obligation to continue his service of horsebuses. As a result, three Thorneycroft double-deckers were ordered for early delivery following Bamford’s withdrawal earlier in the year. Bamford had agreed to take over the tenancy of the Muskham Street stables from 25 March in succession to Common’s Nottingham Carriage Company, which had gone into liquidation, but, following the refusal of the West Bridgford Urban District Council to grant licences for operation in their area, Bamford was released from his agreement.
On 26 March the motorbus service between the Market Place and the Crown Hotel, Carlton Road commenced operation. Two vehicles were required for the normal operation of the service, the third one being kept in reserve at the depot built on spare land adjoining Trent Bridge Depot. At first the service was operated Monday to Saturday only, but it was shortly afterwards increased to daily operation; time and a quarter was agreed upon for Sunday work. It was also agreed that after 12 months’ service each employee should be granted six days’ paid holiday.
The question of traction poles in the centre of the road came before the April committee meeting, as apparently they were becoming troublesome. It was decided to replace them by side poles and brackets, or side poles and span wires, as the opportunity occurred.
At the June Council meeting, the fitting of new and more powerful motors was approved for cars 1 to 25, as, with their weaker motors, they frequently lost time and hindered the cars behind. 35 h.p. motors were obtained from Dick, Kerr and the 25 h.p. ones were returned in part payment.
The laying of track for the Colwick Road service along Bath Street, Manvers Street and Colwick Road, together with that for the London Road service, via Pennyfoot Street, Plumptre Square and London Road to Trent Bridge, commenced on 22 August 1906. Grooved wire was used for the overhead line.
Read more about this topic: Nottingham Corporation Tramways