The original gauge of 2ft 4 ½ in (724mm) was unique to the Glyn Valley Tramway and all things being equal it would have been nice to have adopted it in the rebuilding plans. However the practicalities of starting up and running the line in the future have caused the Trust to specify 2ft 6in gauge (762mm) for the new line, we believe there are sound reasons for doing such as:
Potential funders especially the Welsh Assembly insisted on steam traction from the outset which was not deliverable without using hired –in locos until such time as replacement tram locos could be funded.
Availability of 2ft 6in second hand track available in panels making laying easier.
Availability of existing 2ft 6in steam locos and rolling stock at realistic prices.
Having a robust back –up plan if we adopted 724mm gauge and our unique loco failed we would be unable to hire in a replacement to maintain operations and the viability of the line would be in question.
Extra cost of re-gauging existing stock.
New locos could not be tested at the point of manufacture without a special test track being built
Ability to hire in tamping machines and ballast wagons.
Being part of a wider railway community it would enable GVT stock to act as ambassadors on other lines and for us to play host to suitable visiting locos and stock on the GVT.
Ability to train GVT volunteers on other lines which may be longer and initially more challenging on the equipment they will use.
Closest gauge to the original.
We believe 762mm gauge will aid rebuilding plans and makes the difference between whether we can deliver a project or not. The difference of 38mm is about the same as two fingers pressed together and on the ground is barely noticeable. It would not affect the design of planned replacement tram locos or coaches as these will still be to the original dimensions and the track will be 50lb rail secured on a baseplate with dog spikes just like the original specification. We will have to incorporate modern features like air brakes and crashworthiness for the coaches whilst trying to keep to the original design as closely as possible.
The Trust hopes that enthusiasts will understand why it has opted for a variation in gauge. GVT Project Manager Dave Dilnot said ‘ We would liked to have gone for the original gauge but the costs would have been so significant that it was just a non starter and we would have always been isolated and vulnerable to breakdowns’.
We have thought through the issues in great detail to provide a safe and viable line which will follow the appearance and character of the tramway as closely as possible while complying with modern regulations. The Trust is putting in place a business plan to introduce authentic stock as the project develops and seeks financial support and practical help to make this possible.
On the ground the difference between the two gauges is barely noticeable. Click on image to enlarge.
The Glyn Valley Tramway Trust has been trying to source suitable 2ft 6in gauge steam locomotives to start operations before it can commission replacement tram locos. The type of engine we would be looking at is something quite small, economical and it keeping with the size of GVT rolling stock. The hire of a steam locomotive would be subject to a competitive tendering process. 
