Door conversions to include 700

Despite the initial expectation that heritage refurbishment 700 would be spared inclusion in the door modification program, the historic tram has sadly been sacrificed. 700 has joined sisters 713 and 718 in having had the centre platform areas stripped in preparation for the fitting of power doors, but in the case of 700, which was restored to its 1940s condition during 1996/7, this has involved damage to the original appearance with glass louvres removed from around the doors, the eradication of the original '237' numerals from above the centre entrance, and the removal of the chrome trimmed sprung bumpers and the drop tray lifeguard arrangement, which is to be replaced by a rubber bumper and fibreglass skirt, as per 717. The tram is also expected to be fitted with a cctv system. Following this work the tram is to be repainted in 1940s wartime livery, despite the fact that its heritage credentials have been well and truly compromised. What a shame! In the photo opposite, notice the remains of scrapped Balloon 722 alongside.   
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