The suspension led to a strong backlash, with nearly 3,000 people signing a petition calling for the decision to be reversed.
Blackpool: Footage shows seaside town’s iconic trams
Blackpool’s iconic heritage tram service was suspended earlier this month, leaving locals outraged before sparking a fierce campaign to save it.
The trams, which have run alongside Blackpool’s modern fleet since 2014, were taken out of service due to what Blackpool Transport described as “safety and maintenance issues.”
The company said the decision was not taken lightly, adding that there were challenges in operating the older trams alongside the town’s modern Flexity fleet.
A statement on Blackpool Transport’s website read: “The heritage trams are a cherished part of Blackpool’s history, and we fully recognise their importance to the community.
“However, ensuring the ongoing safety and sustainability of the service has become increasingly complex.”
Chaos in UK seaside town as locals fight to save iconic trams after shock suspension. (Image: Getty)
Blackpool’s iconic heritage tram service was suspended earlier this month. (Image: Getty)
The suspension led to a strong backlash, with nearly 3,000 people signing a petition calling for the trams to be reinstated.
Some also took to social media to express their anger. One person wrote: “Shocked to hear about the sudden and unexpected end to heritage tram operation in Blackpool.They are such a huge part of Blackpool’s identity, and a major tourist attraction. Removing this from a town that is already struggling is an appalling move.”
Blackpool South MP Chris Webb also joined the campaign, branding the decision “very disappointing” and “short-sighted.”
“Our heritage trams are a vital part of Blackpool’s culture,” he said. “To close down this living aspect of our heritage seems very short-sighted, especially over the Christmas period.”
Mr Webb confirmed he was seeking an urgent meeting with Blackpool Transport to address safety concerns and gain clarity on when the trams would return, the Blackpool Gazette reported.
The suspension led to a strong backlash. (Image: Getty)
In response to the public outcry, Blackpool Transport managing director Jane Cole announced that the heritage trams would return next summer.
“I can confirm that the future of our heritage trams is safe, and we aim to have them back on the Promenade next year,” Ms Cole said.
He added:“However, before that can happen, there are a number of complex operational issues that need to be addressed.”
Nonetheless, Conservative councillors have expressed concerns that the suspension is more about cost-cutting than safety.
The trams have run alongside Blackpool’s modern fleet since 2014. (Image: Getty)
Councillor Emma Ellison said: “I don’t believe this is purely about safety – there haven’t been any accidents involving heritage trams. This feels more like a financial decision.”
The heritage trams were introduced as a visitor experience in 2014, following the upgrade of the tramway with a modern fleet in 2012.
Earlier this year, a £23 million extension linked the tramway to Blackpool North train station for the first time in 60 years.
