Blackpool Flexity2 017 has recently been noted running with new cameras fitted in the upper windscreen at both ends. These replace the previous one end only “auto stop technology” camera which the tram has carried since they were removed from 018 in 2021, after it suffered accident damage.
Whereas the previous cameras had only been carried at one end of the tram these new versions are at both ends with the positioning remaining in the upper windscreen. This is an extension of the previous pilot of new equipment which now looks set to be extended to other members of the tram fleet.
A number of Flexity2 trams haven’t seen much use recently with 003 and 005 both being stabled on the engineering side of Starr Gate Depot whilst both 009 and 015 have seen little use so far in 2023. 006 had also been under engineering attention but was back in service on 7th March 2023. With the tramway continuing to operate its winter timetable there is little call for all the trams to be available but as the year progresses (and we hopefully see the North Station extension open) the whole fleet should be needed to run the required service.
017 stops at Cabin on its way to Fleetwood Ferry. The cameras mentioned in this article are seen at the top of the windscreen just below the destination screen. (Photograph by Michael Morton, 4th March 2023)