Claims overcrowded Blackpool trams could cause injury
A local councillor claims trams are continuing to pick up passengers despite being full
It's been claimed that overcrowded trams in Blackpool could cause people injury, with a local councillor alleging that trams are continuing to pick up passengers despite being full.
Cllr Julie Sloman says the issue has been raised by her constituents several times.
However, the claims have been denied by Blackpool Transport, who say all the trams are monitored constantly by staff, for both safety and passenger comfort.
Cllr Sloman raised the concerns at a full meeting of the council saying a resident had told her overcrowding led to “several problems” including preventing conductors from collecting all the fares.
Cllr Sloman added: “He also believes there is a potential safety issue if the tram had to stop suddenly, especially if elderly people were on board and could be injured.
“If a tram caught fire or there was an accident, people could die as they would panic and there are only two double doors to exit and there are often wheelchairs and prams near the doors.”
She said she had raised the issue with Blackpool Transport but had not received an adequate response, and asked if there were plans to put more services on in order to prevent overcrowding at the busiest times.
A spokesperson for Blackpool Transport said: “The safety of customers is our top priority. The capacity of our Flexity trams is around 220 customers, depending on the ratio of those standing or seated.
“Our trams are regularly monitored, and our onboard teams are trained to ensure that passengers travel as safely and comfortably as possible.
“We’re continuously reviewing customer numbers and service timings, particularly during peak periods and major events. When we anticipate or experience higher demand, our teams endeavour to run extra services supporting the regular timetable to keep people moving.
“We have taken many opportunities to learn, since the opening of the tramway extension to North Station and are putting our efforts into using this information to run a frequent and effective service for our customers."