Blackpool heritage trams seek temporary home to remain in public view
Council appeals for sites for pop-up tram displays amid depot revamp
Blackpool Transport is actively seeking a temporary location to display the town's iconic heritage tram fleet as their depot undergoes refurbishment.
The council-owned transport firm is calling on individuals or organisations with suitable sites to help this initiative become a reality.
Long-term plans include restoring the original tram shed at the Rigby Road depot to house operational trams and static displays.
This includes the reconfiguration of overhead line equipment ahead of the demolition and refurbishment.
Currently, a pop-up display is prioritised to continue showcasing the trams and related memorabilia.
Lea Harrison, Managing Director of Blackpool Transport, expressed the urgent need to find a secure location for the temporary exhibition while the refurbishment is ongoing.
“Despite extensive enquiries, we haven’t found a suitable site on the Fylde coast,” Harrison said, encouraging local entities to offer potential premises that could become tourist attractions, keeping the trams visible to the public until their permanent home returns.
Contributing to the Lightpool Festival this year, Blackpool Transport will display two of its best-known trams alongside restoration efforts for the Western Train and Rocket trams, supported by local transport groups and volunteers.
The fleet's original display at the Tramtown museum closed earlier this year due to the buildings being deemed unsafe, leading to a dispute between Tramtown volunteer and Blackpool Council Conservative leader, Cllr Paul Galley, and Council leader, Cllr Lynn Williams.
Williams reassured the preservation of the heritage trams as a top priority: “Blackpool Transport’s teams are passionate about preserving this integral part of the town’s cultural identity, and I am eager to see them enjoyed by as many people as possible.”
As efforts continue, anyone with premises that could host this venture is urged to contact Blackpool Transport.
The heritage trams have been a significant part of Blackpool’s cultural heritage, and the collaborative efforts underscore their importance to the community.