Heritage trams set for seafront return during Lightpool Festival

Blackpool Heritage Trams aim to feature in this year’s Lightpool Festival, with static displays of two of the best-known trams planned for the October light show. 

Blackpool Transport is currently restoring and upgrading the much-loved Western Train and Rocket trams, with support from local transport groups and a team of volunteers. 

The iconic Western Train tram - the illuminated twin-car tram, based on a Santa Fe train - is perhaps the most iconic of Blackpool Transport’s heritage fleet. The unique Rocket tram had passengers travelling at a 30-degree elevation when it ran through the 80s and 90s. It is hoped the pair will be able to be viewed up close by visitors to Lightpool– a 10-day, free festival of light-based art installations.

Works are also underway to return operational heritage trams to the tracks, however structural welding, electrical systems and axle repairs are all required before any can be safely and reliably returned for passenger tours. 

Lea Harrison, Blackpool Transport’s Managing Director, said: “Our heritage plans have not been forgotten, and work has already started on restoring and upgrading the much-loved ‘Western Train’ and ‘Rocket’ trams. 

“We’re delighted to be able to welcome back volunteers to the depot, and the investment we’ve made in their training reflects our continued commitment to preserving our rich tramway heritage.”

The update comes as Blackpool Transport is planning to restore the original tram shed at the Rigby Road depot, creating a refurbished home for the heritage fleet. 

This will house operational trams and static displays in the original tramway workshop. Work has also begun reconfiguring overhead line equipment (OLE) in the area in preparations for the demolition of the old workshop and refurbishment of the original tram shed.

“During these works we are continuing to search for a secure location for a ‘pop-up’ display for viewing the fleet and related memorabilia,” Lea said.

“Despite making extensive enquiries, we have not yet found anywhere suitable on the Fylde coast. As a result, we’re keen to hear from any individual or organisation in the area with premises that could provide a pop-up solution which could be developed into a temporary tourist attraction while helping to keep the trams in the public eye until they return to their permanent home. 

“We are also actively looking for sponsorship and partnerships that will further accelerate the delivery of our ambitious plans for a sustainable heritage operation that the people of Blackpool can be proud of.”

Cllr Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, added: “Blackpool Transport’s teams are working really hard behind-the-scenes to bring some of our heritage trams back to the seafront. They’re working as quickly as possible to do this, and I know they’re all so passionate about preserving this important part of our town’s cultural heritage.

“My commitment to the heritage trams remains the same - I want to see our wonderful trams out and being enjoyed by as many people as possible, so we are doing all we can to support Blackpool Transport in this.”