Blackpool Transport celebrates 10 years anniversary of Modern Light Rail Trams 4 April 2022 by Visit Blackpool The modernised Blackpool Tramway is ten years old today, 4th April 2022, following the £85m investment in 2012 to rejuvenate and protect Blackpool’s tramway for future years. The modern light rail trams, which you now see running along the Fylde Coast between Starr Gate and Fleetwood first entered operation on the 4 April 2012. Following an £85m upgrade to the tram track and a brand new tram depot, the Bombardier Flexity 2 Trams replaced the older fleet, which you now see as Blackpool’s Heritage Tram Tours running bespoke tours throughout the year. The new trams brought with them a bigger seating and standing capacity to manage Blackpool’s busy summer season and have been keeping more than £5m residents and tourists moving annually in recent years. With level boarding, audio/visual stop announcements and designated wheelchair access, the light rail trams provide a fully accessible option for travelling along the seafront. Blackpool’s trams are also one of the only tram networks in the country with conductors still onboard. The ten year anniversary will celebrate the efforts of the Blackpool Transport team over the last ten years, including their outstanding contribution to keeping Blackpool moving throughout the pandemic. The anniversary is well-timed, with the tramway extension to Blackpool North Train Station set to be completed later in 2022. The extension will provide integrated train, tram and bus services for the Fylde Coast with direct services to the train station. Shane Grindey, Marketing and Commercial Manager at Blackpool Transport said “This milestone is hugely exciting, especially as there are many staff who have worked with us throughout the last 10 years on our famous tramway. As we look towards a busy 2022 season there is lot’s to look forward to and we’re proud to continue to play an important part in Blackpool’s economy.”