The Dundee Museum of Transport has announced it is to move to a new home.

Following a four-year campaign, the museum confirmed its bid for residency at the Maryfield Tram Depot has been successful. The category B-listed building has been on the market by Scottish Water since 2005, with the transport museum commencing negotiations in 2010.

Following the success of its bid, the organisation has said it now aims to raise the necessary funds to restore the depot to its former glory.

It added that it plans to relocate to its new home by the end of 2017.

In April of this year, the museum opened its current premises and will remain at the Market Street site until the restoration of the depot is completed. Run by volunteers from the local community, the organisation focuses on restoring, preserving and displaying transport-related memorabilia and vehicles.


Jimmy McDonell, Chairman of the Dundee Museum of Transport, said: "We are thrilled that we have succeeded in our mission to secure the depot for use as our permanent home and we thank Scottish Water for making the right decision and also to all the support we have received from Dundee City Council, MP's, businesses and the local community."

Committee member Matthew Jackson added: "We are pressing on with our sustainable business study which was funded by the Historic Lottery Fund and alongside our consultants will include a refresh of the feasibility study to produce a quality plan for Maryfield as we progress towards the next stage of funding.

"This is an exciting time for Dundee and our project and we will be looking to consult with the local community as soon as possible to get the very best out of this excellent opportunity."

National Express was the museum's main sponsor and its managing director Phil Smith has welcomed the news.

He commented: "I'm extremely pleased that Dundee Museum of Transport's bid for Maryfield Tram Depot has been successful – it's great news for this excellent visitor attraction. Transport is an important part of Dundee's past, present and future. I wish them the very best of luck with planning their move into this fantastic historic building."

(JP/CD)