It may have been a few weeks since we had our last update from tram construction works at the former Wilko’s store site in Blackpool but that’s mainly because progress has somewhat slowed in laying the tracks and fixing them into position. When we last reported from the site we mentioned that all track was now down – including the final section just before the actual terminus – and that is still the position we are in with further concrete still be poured to complete the track laying side of the project.
There is still no official word of when we may see trams running up Talbot Road to Blackpool North Railway Station with just a vague 2022 mentioned currently by Blackpool Council. As well as this final section of track laying – and associated completion works such as the concrete and platform construction – there is still the none too small matter of overhead installation. And on the subject of overhead installation that also seems to have stalled with no further wiring having gone up recently.
Given the current economic chaos in the UK and elsewhere (Gas supplies, PSV/HGV driver shortages, etc.), we may see a considerable delay to completion if not total abandonment, much to the delight of many a taxi driver – those that can get fuel for their vehicles! Let’s hope things aren’t going that way – but we live in such uncertain times.
Unlikely you will see anymore overhead until the lights finish. Even during the quieter weeks you can’t really start closing off roads or part of roads overnight in the lights.
Why would a shortage of drivers cause abandonment? They are probably waiting for concrete or waiting for the next hotel phase before continuing.