Blackpool heritage trams to return this autumn

Blackpool Council has confirmed that heritage trams will return to the famous Promenade tram line this autumn. Operations with the trams were suspended last December with the operating company citing challenges of operating a mixed fleet of heritage trams alongside the modern fleet. Now a programme of works at Starr gate depot has been put in hand with modifications that will permit the mixed operation. The fleet of preserved cars should return in time for the Lightpool Festival that starts on 15 October. Passengers will be able to book tours on two illuminated trams (the Western Train and the Frigate) plus a pre-war double-deck ‘Balloon’. 

 

Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said, ‘I am deigned that we have found a solution that will enable these much-loved trams to be back where they belong on the Promenade later this year. From the outset we said this would only be a temporary pause in the service and we would work to ensure they returned at the earliest opportunity They are an important part of the heritage of the town and the Council is committed to securing their future’. 

 

Following the Lightpool Festival heritage tram tours will continue to run during the illuminations season.