Nostalgic makeover for modern Blackpool tram

Blackpool Transport is paying tribute to its rich heritage with the unveiling of an eye-catching ‘new’ look for one of its modern, second-generation trams.

Tram 012 first entered service in April 2012, but it’s now been wrapped in a green and cream livery reminiscent of the single-deck trams that were a common sight on the seafront during the 1950s.

Lea Harrison, Blackpool Transport Managing Director, explained: “While we’re on track to have some static displays ready for next month’s Lightpool Festival, in the meantime we want to ensure our heritage plans remain in the public eye.

“Our engineers and volunteers are also doing all they can to restore some of our best-loved trams and bring others up to modern-day operating standards, and this nostalgic makeover aims to remind everyone of their efforts behind the scenes.”

A standout member of Blackpool’s modern fleet, Tram 012 has previously been used to promote one of the town’s top tourist attractions, and its Pleasure Beach wrap featuring SpongeBob SquarePants became a firm favourite with visitors and local residents.

Its latest transformation has come at no additional cost to the operator, as a makeover was required following the end of current sponsorship arrangements.

“We’re delighted to be able to use one of our younger trams to showcase our commitment to a safe and sustainable future for our wider heritage operations,” Lea added.