 However, most of the tram network remained in operation until large scale closures began in 1947.The last three lines to Short Heath, Pype Hayes and Erdington were closed simultaneously on 4 July 1953.Trams eventually returned to the streets of Birmingham on 6 December 2015, after a 62-year gap, when the first part of the Midland Metro city-centre extension was opened to Bull Street tram stop.