Blackpool Transport issues new statement on Tramtown and heritage trams amidst bold new plans
"We have an opportunity to build a sustainable future for a top tourist attraction"
Blackpool Transport says a bold vision for the future of the town’s famous heritage trams is taking shape ahead of the launch of summer tours featuring several vintage vehicles.
The ambitious plans include a permanent home for the historic fleet, as well as regular trips on the seafront by some of the heritage trams.
It comes amidst major concern over the permanent closure of the Tramtown visitor attraction on Rigby Road, due to the fitting shed – where vital works are carried out and where the public had access – being deemed uninhabitable. Tramtown is the current home to Blackpool’s heritage trams.
Blackpool Transport’s new Managing Director, Lea Harrison, says the revitalisation of heritage operations is one of his top priorities, as well as finding a permanent home for an improved heritage tram attraction.
Precise details of where the new home for the trams would be have not yet been divulged.
Mr Harrison said: “Despite the fantastic efforts of everyone involved with the existing Tramtown site, a recent survey by an independent structural engineer found the building was unsafe and beyond repair.
“However, I would like to categorically state that this is not the end of the line for heritage trams in Blackpool. While it’s sad that we need to say goodbye to the existing building, we also have an opportunity to build a sustainable future for a top tourist attraction featuring our world-famous fleet.
“In the short-term, this may include ‘pop-up’ displays of vintage trams until funding is in place for a fitting home for the entire fleet, and plans for regular heritage tours over the summer months will be announced shortly.”
In the meantime, members of the public can expect to see vintage trams in operation during a series of private tours in May.
The famous ‘Balloon’ tram (number 717) will be running this Sunday (May 3), as part of a tour organised by Fylde Tramway Society, while the Bolton 66 tram will be operated by its owners during a visit by the Electric Railroaders Association from New York on Friday, May 8.
Tram 717 will return to service on Thursday, May 21, for a trip organised by Trinity Hospice during the national dementia action week.
Mr Harrison added: “Blackpool is as famous for its historic trams as it is for its tower and the Pleasure Beach and we are fully committed to preserving the town’s rich tramway heritage for future generations to enjoy.
“Over the next few months, we will be working closely with the local authority, other stakeholders and partners on more detailed proposals, and we’re looking forward to making further announcements in due course.”