The Impact of World War II on Public Transport

The Second World War had a profound effect on public transport in the West Midlands. New regulations were introduced within days of Chamberlain’s broadcast and buses, trolleybuses and trams had to conform with new blackout regulations. Many single-deck buses were either commandeered by the War Department or converted to ambulances.

Service reductions were made and significant damage to buildings and infrastructure presented a unique set of challenges for those tasked with keeping the West Midlands working. Air raids resulted in many routes being abandoned or changed as the inevitable reduction in fleet sizes put the public transport system under even greater strain.

Photographing the public transport system was forbidden during the war, but many enthusiasts continued to record history. Delving into his superb collection of wartime shots, author David Harvey offers a fascinating snapshot of these vehicles’ lives during wartime.