Blackpool Tramway Infrastructure Renewals  
     
     
     
   
 
Client / Contracting Authority Project Value Date
Blackpool Borough Council £4m Sept 2007 - Mar 2008
     
     
Contract Type Location  
NEC Blackpool,  
  Lancashire  
     
 
  Project Highlights  
     
  Blackpool tramway runs from Blackpool to Fleetwood on the Fylde Coast and is the only surviving first-generation tramway in the United Kingdom. The tramway is 11 miles long and carries in excess of 6 million passengers each year.  
     
  The tramway dates from the 1930’s and whilst some limited infrastructure refurbishment was undertaken in the 1990’s, a considerable amount of infrastructure renewal was required to ensure its continued operation.  
     
  In November 2007 and for the first time in its history, the entire tramway was closed for five months of essential refurbishment and renewals works.  
     
  Project Description  
     
  Colas Rail is playing a major role in the refurbishment and renewal of the tramway and is contracted to Blackpool City Council to undertake the following works;

 • The demolition and replacement of the existing electrical sub-station and related equipment at Copse Road.

• Provision of new power supply, connecting the sub-station with the tramway.

• Ongoing maintenance of the sub-station equipment.

• The renewal of 2.6 km of track, comprising of ;

            *  open ballasted track,

            *  tarmacked street running track,

            *  concrete paved track.

• Minor highway works. Once completed, the tramway will resume normal operation in readiness for the start of the summer season in Easter 2008. Further phases of refurbishment and renewal are planned, the timing of which are based on further funding from the Government.