It has been announced that Blackpool’s Heritage Trams have been suspended from operation after the company operating them said they had become “increasingly challenging” to run.
The heritage trams operated the main tram service in the town until 2011. After a multi-million pound upgrade, the tramway was transformed into a light rail system with much more modern rolling stock. Plans were made to retain a core selection of original trams, by Blackpool Transport, and return them to passengers carrying duties once more. These have been operating on a variety of special services over the past few years and are a familiar site, especially in the illuminations season.
Heritage Tram Tours operates with a team of dedicated engineers and volunteer tram drivers and conductors. The organisation has released the following statement:
“Following a thorough review, we have made the difficult decision to suspend our Heritage Tram Tours. Operating the Heritage Trams alongside our modern fleet has become increasingly challenging, with issues such as depot space, tram movements, general safety and maintenance conflicts making it difficult
to continue running the service effectively.
This decision was not taken lightly, but we believe it is the most practical step to support the evolving needs of our business and maintain the overall efficiency of our operations. As part of our efforts to future-proof and safely grow our core tram network following the North Station extension, we are introducing advanced safety systems, including the Obstacle Detection Assistance System (ODAS) and the Collision and Overspeed Monitoring and Prevention Assistance System (COMPASS). These technologies are essential to maintaining safety, especially during busy times such as the summer, illuminations and festive seasons. The systems also allow us to improve operational efficiency, and ensure the sustainability of the network.
The Heritage Trams are a cherished part of Blackpool’s history, and we fully recognise their importance to the community, however, ensuring the ongoing safety and sustainability of the service has become increasingly complex. This pause provides an opportunity to reflect on the role of Heritage trams within a modernised and safe tramway network.
By reassessing their operation, we aim to explore new ways to honour Blackpool’s rich transport heritage while maintaining our commitment to a safe, efficient, and future-focused service. We are dedicated to finding innovative opportunities to honour and showcase Blackpool’s iconic tramway history, and we thank you for your understanding as we work towards this.”
Photo credit: iStock
