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Tramway work will close prom to walkers
UPGRADE work on Blackpool's tram system will see pedestrians banned from part of the promenade for almost six months.
Vital tram track repairs between South Pier and Manchester Square will begin in November.
The work, which will take place over the winter, will see the replacement of the outdated section of tracks and a noise reduction system installed.
Repairs along South Promenade are the first phase of the emergency repairs for which Blackpool Council was handed 11m of Government cash earlier this year.
Combined with the 62m seawall restoration and promenade revamp, the section of the promenade will be closed completely to pedestrians from November 6 until just before Easter next year.
Replacement bus services will be in operation while the tramway is shut.
Coun Fred Jackson, cabinet member for the urban environment said: "The work has been programmed to coincide with the quieter off season.
"The road and through-access for vehicles will remain unaffected and access to South Pier will be maintained."
Normal tram services will operate between North Pier and Fleetwood with replacement buses meeting trams at the
pier and running to Starr Gate.
Blackpool Council wants 88m to completely transform the tramway into a light rail system fit for the 21st century.
Philip Higgs, of the Lancastrian Transport Trust, said: "I think is was vital for Blackpool to get the 11m and the work which will now be carried out will secure the short-term future of the line.
"I am pleased to see the repairs getting under way and hope Blackpool Council will soon be getting news of a successful bid for the 88m needed to update the tramway."
rob.stocks@blackpoolgazette.co.uk
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Weather for Blackpool
Monday 13 February 2012
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Temperature: 4 C to 8 C
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