MP GORDON Marsden knows first hand how convenient tram travel is - regularly using it to reach engagements within his Blackpool South constituency.
The message he would most like to get across to decision-makers in the Department of Transport is the antiquated tramway is not just a tourist attraction, it is a viable travel link for commuters.
He said: "I continue to make the arguments about the unique nature of the Blackpool tramway, both in terms of its existing importance to both tourists and residents, and its potential importance on the back of regeneration.
"I hope that delegates and ministers coming to the Labour Spring Conference will see first of all that although it's a very fine system, it's clearly in need of an upgrade. They can see for themselves that we are not exaggerating the need.
"In terms of cost, the social need and the fact the we need to upgrade to offer full access for disabled people are all strong arguments. It's a working tramway and it's important we get that across so the ministers don't see it as something that if we can throw some Lottery money at it, that will do instead."
Coun Roy Fisher, leader of Blackpool Council, said: "There is absolutely no doubt that 2006 is a very big year for Blackpool. One of the first decisions will be the outcome of our revised tram bid - crucial to the future of our town.
"We believe the tram bid represents excellent value for money enabling us to upgrade the existing system creating a modern public transport network to serve the New Blackpool while retaining and enhancing the heritage of our trams.
"Without this investment the future of Blackpool trams is very uncertain and it's highly likely most of the network will have to close because of the state of the track.
"We're very pleased the North West region has recognised the importance of the tram to our regeneration plans. North West Regional Assembly and North West Development Agency have backed our scheme as one of the key priorities during the next 10 years. In the light of this we hope that the Government will approve the scheme to upgrade and modernise the tramway."

The passenger
AS my tram trundled down South Promenade it was rocking so much that I could have been on one of the rides we were approaching as the Pleasure Beach came into view.
That isn't too bad if you're strapped into a padded seat, but anyone trying to keep hold of their shopping might find their potatoes rolling out of the door.
I was one of only two passengers who embarked on a grey afternoon at the Starr Gate stop. It was just my luck the fares had gone up that day as I handed over the £2.40 single fare to Fleetwood.
But it wasn't long before we were joined by a flurry of other travellers as the single decker made its way purposefully along the Prom. I would like to say we pulled smoothly into each stop, but in reality a tram ride is accompanied by a cacophony of high-pitched whines, bone-jarring judders and various whirring type noises. (At least it covers up the sound of other people's irritating mobile phone conversations).
By the time we reached North Pier, there was a veritable rush to climb on board as a mix of visitors, families and workers eased into their seats. I meanwhile pathetically zipped my coat up to my chin as the brisk Irish Sea breeze whistled through the open doors while the queue of passengers patiently paid their fares.
Heading out of town I couldn't help noticing a middle-aged cyclist appeared to be making faster progress than us, but then there is a 16 mile an hour limit on the central part of the track for safety reasons.
But soon Cleveleys was in sight as we chugged at a fine rate of knots past the Norbreck Castle Hotel. A fine view of the coast had been afforded to passengers up until now but as we veered inland towards Fleetwood, waves were replaced by washing lines as we rattled past suburban gardens.
There would be no parking worries for those people who hopped off in Lord Street, right on the doorstep of the port's main shopping area. Journey's end finally came for me as we reached the ferry terminal opposite the North Euston Hotel just over an hour, and 11 and a half miles, after my departure.
The tram had run right on time, it was clean, the driver was friendly and I thought the fare was pretty good value. But it was chilly at times, my legs suffered the type of cramping you get on budget airlines and it had been a rather bumpy ride.
There is no doubt the network needs significant investment, but it deserves it. I'd love to think that in future years I could be gliding along in state-of-the-art comfort, perhaps, who knows, to see a world-class act at Blackpool's new super casino.......

The enthusiast
"IT would be a brave politician who risked the future of the country's oldest electric tramway."
Those are the words of Philip Higgs, founder member of the Lancastrian Transport Trust.
He is saying them, not only as a tram "anorak", but as a professional transport consultant to local authorities across the country.
Mr Higgs believes Blackpool's bid represents value for money at all levels while preserving a part of the country's history.
He said: "Because Blackpool already has a tramway the actual cost of the bid isn't as significant as other bids that the government has declined for new systems.
"Without this funding the future of the tramway will be put in jeopardy. We're hoping it will survive in its entirety to celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2010. It has been listed as an icon on the government's website, and it is an icon, not only of Blackpool but of the country just as much as Big Ben or Yorkshire Pudding."
While recognising the importance of modernising the system, plans to retain the heritage trams are much welcomed by Mr Higgs.
He added: "It would be similar to the way that while updating its buses to low floor models, London still retains some of its traditional Routemaster buses to use on heritage routes.
"Trams have a place in modern transport especially with fuel shortages.
"Electricity can be made from a number of sources. In any European city you will find an extensive tramway system."