Following on from the news from Cllr Paul Galley that the current Tramtown attraction had been closed permanently owing to the condition of the Fitting Shop building where it was held, Blackpool Transport have released an official statement confirming that they still have ambitious plans for the future of heritage trams in the resort.<\/p>\n
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It is planned that some of the heritage trams will be used on the Promenade \u2013 with plans for 2026 tours set to be announced in the coming weeks \u2013 whilst longer-term the ambitious plans include a permanent home for the historic fleet.<\/p>\n
Lea Harrison, the new Managing Director of Blackpool Transport, said: \u201cDespite the fantastic efforts of everyone involved with the existing Tramtown site, a recent survey by an independent structural engineer found the building was unsafe and beyond repair.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever, I would like to categorically state that this is not the end of the line for heritage trams in Blackpool. While it\u2019s sad that we need to say goodbye to the existing building, we also have an opportunity to build a sustainable future for a top tourist attraction featuring our world-famous fleet.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn the short-term, this may include \u2018pop-up\u2019 displays of vintage trams until funding is in place for a fitting home for the entire fleet, and plans for regular heritage tours over the summer months will be announced shortly.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ahead of the start of public tours this summer there are set to be some private tours taking place on the Promenade over the next few weeks:<\/p>\n
Lea continued: \u201cBlackpool is as famous for its historic trams as it is for its tower and the Pleasure Beach and we are fully committed to preserving the town\u2019s rich tramway heritage for future generations to enjoy.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver the next few months, we will be working closely with the local authority, other stakeholders and partners on more detailed proposals, and we\u2019re looking forward to making further announcements in due course.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Following on from the news from Cllr Paul Galley that the current Tramtown attraction had been closed permanently owing to the condition of the Fitting Shop building where it was held, Blackpool Transport have released an official statement confirming that … Continue reading