We’re delighted to share that the Museum has secured £272,000 from the DCMS/Wolfson Museums and Galleries Improvement Fund to restore and relaunch our historic trolleybus network.
This is a significant moment for the organisation and a real vote of confidence in our work, following a highly competitive national process.
The project will allow us to return three locally built trolleybuses to operation and extend their route into the 1940s–60s High Street, completing a key part of the Forging Ahead vision.
Why this matters
For the past three years, the trolleybus network has been out of use. As many of you know, it’s not just a popular visitor experience, it’s a vital part of how we move people across site, and a key part of how we tell the story of the Black Country.
This investment:
- Safeguards an important part of our collection
- Improves accessibility for visitors
- Reduces reliance on diesel vehicles
- Strengthens the overall visitor experience
A timely moment for the region
This all comes as Dudley prepares to welcome the Metro later this year, reconnecting the town to the wider transport network.
There’s something powerful about bringing historic electric transport back at the same time as new electric transport arrives.
What happens next
The grant secures the core of the project, but we’ll now be working to enhance what we deliver, including interpretation and accessibility.
There will be opportunities for teams across the Museum to get involved as the project develops.
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the bid, and to the teams who will help bring this project to life.
