COOL Ideas

mercator@onvol.net (Roy S. Perry) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 19:22:00 +0000

mercator@onvol.net (Roy S. Perry) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Rare 1896 Guernesy Tram at risk

mercator@onvol.net (Roy S. Perry) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 08:57:00 +0000

This image is of one of a precious collection of Tramcar models built over a 30 year period for the late Dr Plummer of St Peter Port, Guernsey. They used to be run on his model tramway layout of his home. All 12 models represent accurate reproductions of the tramway which ran from St Peter Port to St Sampson from 1879 to 1934. Since being acquired by a local museum in 1995 they have been kept hidden from public view.

There is another astounding fact in thi story. The original Tram Sheds still exist on the Island - complete with tracks and overhead insulators.

The most amazing fact is that the body of Car No 3 which was rescued from a field in 1976 is also in the care of the museum. No 3 was partly restored by members of the Old Car Club before being given to the Heritage Committee in 1987. Since that time no further work has been carried out.

Before this vital relic is BURNT, will someone not come to it's rescue?

The electric tramway was the first in the UK to be supplied from overhead collectors and also one of the few to have both entrances on one (the land) side.

Contact mercator@onvol.net fpr details or go to.
http//www.busstation.net/guernseytram

GOZO's AERIAL GATEWAY

mercator@onvol.net (Roy S. Perry) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:12:00 +0000

There are a number of Island communities which depend on sea ferries for access, for example, in the British Channel Islands or the West Indies.

Not all of these also have an airport. In most cses it is the rugged terrain which prohibits this. If the land is flat and space is available, a small airstrip has been laid.
Photo above: Impression of possible aircraft to be used – The Britten-Norman BN 2A Mk III Trislander

If there is a ferry, why do you need to fly?

1. For family emergencies, on the mainland or abroad.
2. For medical support, where a specialist is needed.
3. For fast and secure freight, IT Files and currency transfer.
4. To reduce overall travel time, especially for the elderly and infirm.
5. As a luxury, for those who cannot stand hassle.
6. To avoid a crush – and sea sickness. See photo above – Mayhem at Mgarr

An example is the Island of Gozo (Ghawdex), the second largest island in the Malta group. For 18 years there was a helicopter shuttle service. This has now been withdrawn because of costs. It is much less expensive to operate a small passenger aircraft - all that is needed is a landing strip. Tourism and business has declined in recent years, especially when compared to Malta.

There are a number of operators prepared to operate a service but there is no political will to convert the Heliport to an airfield. An 800 m runway can be laid on government-owned land well to the south of the Heliport and well clear of residences. A taxiway would connect this to the existing terminal whose helipad can be used to park and board small passenger aircraft (up to 19 seats - NO JETS). No extra buildings will be needed. (See plan below).

Is this shortsightedness? Will Gozo become the playground of the Maltese? Has this happened elsewhere?

I would be interested in any comments. To vote in an online poll, visit http://www.gozonews.com/gozo or click here.
Roy Perry
+356 21554153