The tradition of two Blackpool Balloon cars being fitted with a snowplough in case of adverse weather conditions over winter, which resumed following the tramway upgrade, is continuing with two trams so fitted in case of heavy snow fall. For the third year in succession, cars 701 and 723 are the chosen two and both are currently stabled at the top of Rigby Road depot standing by ready for action.
Although car 701 is now on its third winter as a snowplough car, this is its first since being repainted in red and white (previously it was all over yellow). The choice of this tram could well create some additional work as it has been booked by the Fylde Tramway Society for a private tour later this month – so it will be interesting to see whether it retains its plough for this role, or if it is temporarily removed. Meanwhile 723 retains its expired advert livery for the Sands Venue and, as the tram hasn’t run in passenger service since May 2013, any use for this tram in its special winter role would be particularly welcome. However, as significant snow falls are rare in Blackpool, chances are that both trams will remain idle other than the aforementioned private hire for 701.
Greetings.
As I’ve posted in a previous article, I believe that the future of Blackpool’s tramway could be exciting if the trams one day go to south Fylde.
In recent developments, as you probably know, there’s been talk of this happening using the south Fylde railway line.
St Annes residents back this 100% and I ask for anyone with an interest in Blackpool Tramway to sign this petition: https://www.change.org/p/blackpool-transport-extend-the-blackpool-tramway-to-lytham-st-annes
If enough people do, then the chances of this happening are greatly improved! Also, could this possibility be featured in an article so it can get more support?
Thanks! That is all.