Light Rail Transit Association

Blackpool Tramway gets funding : Plans to move forward with a GDP85.3 million refurbishment of the historic Blackpool and Fleetwood tram system were announced by Transport Minister Tom Harris today, with the Government contributing GDP60.3million to the scheme. The upgrade will bring the network up to 21st century standards and boost regeneration of the area. This investment is the centrepiece of the Government's forthcoming response to the Blackpool Task Force report which recommended ways to regenerate the area.

Improvements will include refurbishment of the track and tram stops out to Fleetwood, as well as 16 new fully accessible trams. The historic trams will continue to serve Blackpool's famous seafront promenade. Today's decision means that Blackpool Council can now start detailed planning for the work. Subject to successful procurement of the materials required, the full refurbishment could start in late 2009.

02 February 2008