St James Tram Depot, Northampton

The St James Tram Depot was built in 1904 as part of the expansion of Northampton Corporation Tramways, marking the transition from horse-drawn trams to an electrified public transport system. Located near the town centre at St James End, the depot served as the main operational hub for Northampton’s electric tram network, housing vehicles, maintenance facilities, and staff functions. Its large shed accommodated multiple tram lines under one roof, reflecting the growing importance of municipal transport in the early 20th century.

As transport technology evolved, the depot was gradually adapted for motor bus use. Extensions were added during the 1910s and 1920s, and in 1933 a purpose-built transport office building was constructed at the front of the site, symbolising the authority and civic pride associated with public transport at the time. By 1934, Northampton’s tram services had been fully replaced by buses, but the St James depot continued to operate as the town’s principal bus garage for many decades.

Throughout the later 20th century, the depot remained a key part of Northampton’s transport infrastructure, eventually operated by First Northampton. Bus operations ceased in 2013, after which the site became vacant. In 2014 it was sold to Church’s Shoes, though redevelopment plans did not proceed.

Recognition of the site’s historic value grew in the 2020s. In 2023, West Northamptonshire Council acquired the depot with plans for regeneration, and in 2024 the 1933 transport office was granted Grade II listed status. Current proposals aim to redevelop the site for housing while retaining important historic structures, ensuring the depot’s transport legacy remains part of Northampton’s future.