After the news at the end of last week that Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours operations had been suspended immediately and for an undefined period was met with an outpouring of emotions from enthusiasts and the general public alike (including a petition launched on Change.org which has had over 2,700 signatures), Blackpool Transport have provided further clarity with a statement released by Managing Director, Jane Cole.<\/p>\n
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In the statement Jane Cole said:<\/p>\n
\u201cAs Managing Director of Blackpool Transport, I would like to reach out to everyone who has expressed their concerns about the future of the Heritage Tram operation. I am the biggest advocate for the preservation and future of our beautiful assets.<\/p>\n
\u201cI can confirm that the future of our heritage trams is safe and we aim to have them back on the Promenade next year. However, before that can happen there are a number of complex operational issues that need to be addressed.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile we work on these, we have made the difficult decision to suspend operations.\u202f We apologise for the disappointment and inconvenience this has caused to our passengers but it is the right decision at this time.<\/p>\n
\u201cRecently we have been able to run the heritage trams out of Starr Gate depot which does not interfere with the ongoing works at Rigby Road. We are considering how this could provide a solution to some of the challenges we are currently facing.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is also important to clarify that the suspension of tram tours does not affect plans for the Rigby Road tram shed. In fact, it highlights the importance of bringing our vision for Tramtown to life to preserve Blackpool\u2019s heritage.<\/p>\n
\u201cBlackpool Transport Services and Blackpool Council remain committed to continue working with all our volunteers, supporters and stakeholders during this pause in the operational running of the heritage fleet.\u201d<\/p>\n
Whilst being non-committal \u2013 and not directly addressing the safety issues mentioned in the original press release \u2013 this does at least give some hope for the future of heritage trams in Blackpool. But it is likely to be a fairly long and winding road before there is any real clarity of what any future may look like.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
After the news at the end of last week that Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours operations had been suspended immediately and for an undefined period was met with an outpouring of emotions from enthusiasts and the general public alike (including a … Continue reading