Blackpool Transport, which has started work to refurbish the Tramtown heritage facility at its Rigby Road depot, has announced that heritage trams will not operate during this year’s main Illuminations season. However it it is hoping to put two trams, the Western Train and the Rocket, on static display during the Lightpool Festival, a 10-day event from 21-31 October that rounds off the season. Hopes that operational heritage trams would return to the tracks have been thwarted by repairs required to car body structures, electrical systems and axles before they can run safely. The municipal company is still planning to restore the original tram shed at Rigby Road, creating a refurbished home for the heritage fleet, but the old workshop is being demolished. There is an ongoing search for a secure location suitable for a ‘pop-up’ display for viewing in the interim, while sponsorship is being sought to help defray costs.
Cllr Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said, ‘Blackpool Transport’s teams are working really hard behind the scenesbto bring some of our heritage trams back to the seafront. They are working as quickly as possible to do this, and I know they are so passionate about preserving this important part of the town’s cultural heritage. My commitment to the heritage trams remains the same - I want to see our wonderful trams out and being enjoyed by as many people as possible, so we are doing all we can to support Blackpool Transport in this’.
The Western train has long formed part of the Blackpool Illuminations. (G. Mitchell)
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