Museum of Transport

Museum of Transport £2.7M Funding Boost

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DUNDEE, SCOTLAND – The ambitious transformation of the historic Maryfield Tram Depot into the new permanent home for the Dundee Museum of Transport has shifted into high gear.

Following a successful funding review, the UK Government has more than doubled its initial commitment, providing a total of £2.7 million through the Community Regeneration Partnership. This major investment, combined with £1 million from the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, clears the path for refurbishment work to begin immediately.

A Vision in Motion

The increased funding allows for the imminent appointment of a main contractor to oversee the restoration and fit-out of the 1901 and 1913 sections of the depot. This phase of the project is expected to take 12 months, creating a world-class facility ready for public debut.

Key highlights of the redevelopment include:

  • Restoration & Conservation: Preserving the architectural integrity of the Edwardian-era tram depot.
  • Community Hub: The creation of dedicated spaces for local use and temporary exhibitions in the heart of Stobswell.
  • Economic Impact: A significant boost to local tourism and job creation within the city.

Leadership Voices

“I am delighted that we have been able to significantly increase the allocation to the museum. I am grateful to both the UK and Scottish Governments for these major funds, which follow a dedicated lobbying campaign by the council based on our record of project delivery.” — Cllr Mark Flynn, Dundee City Council Leader

“This funding allows major work to start on this historic building. We are working to tell the story of Dundee’s transport heritage like never before. We will continue our fundraising efforts for final finishes and the restoration of the 1920s section, with a goal to open in the first half of 2027.” — Paul Jennings, Executive Director, Dundee Museum of Transport

Next Steps for the Museum

While the core structural work is now funded, museum leadership is maintaining a focused fundraising drive to cover final landscaping, the creation of a new permanent exhibition, and the restoration of the final 1920 building section.

The museum currently remains open to visitors at its temporary location in Market Mews until the Maryfield site is ready for its grand unveiling.

For more information and updates on the project, please visit the Dundee Museum of Transport website.