The road crossing over the Blackpool & Fleetwood Tramway near to Lauderdale Avenue in Cleveleys is to remain open after a major u-turn by Blackpool Council. As part of the tramway upgrade this crossing was one of several due to close but despite Councillors being recommended to approve this at a meeting of the Executive Committee the decision was made to keep it open.
Cllr Peter Callow, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: ““Since funding was agreed a very important new dimension has been introduced with the demolition of the Orion Bingo Hall to be replaced by an Aldi supermarket. In the circumstances we cannot agree the recommendations, which were brought before us before, even taking in to account the safety aspects.”
Cllr Tony Williams, Ward Councillor for Anchorsholme, said: “This is a terrific common sense decision. I live in the area and have been lobbying for this crossing to remain open for some time as I was aware of the implication it would have for residents living nearby. Although I fully support the tramway refurbishment I am pleased this crossing will remain open and thrilled that the proposal to go ahead with the new pedestrian crossing over the tramway was agreed too.”
This decision is likely to mean this section of tramway will remain fairly slow with several crossings in close proximity. The junction will be closed temporarily later this year as part of the tramway upgrade.
Source: Blackpool Council