£1m fundraiser launched to save Blackpool's vintage trams
The money's needed to fix the roof which houses 35 of the resort's iconic vehicles
Blackpool Transport’s Heritage Department have launched a £1million fundraiser to build a new roof and preserve its fleet of Vintage Trams.
The resort's Heritage Trams have been running for over 100 years, most recently as a visitor experience since 2014 led mostly by a team of volunteers.
Housed and maintained at the Rigby Road bus depot, bosses said there is an urgent need for funding in order to build a new roof and preserve these historic vehicles for years to come.
The current building, which houses a fleet of more than 35 vintage trams, is said to be in need of vital need of renovation. The roof must be completely replaced first in order to prevent water ingress, quickly followed by regeneration of the building to give better structural integrity and protect the trams from the torrent of Fylde Coast wind and rain.
Bryan Lindop, head of heritage at Blackpool Transport said “Replacing our roof is the first step on a journey that will secure the future for our famous trams in their rightful home, whilst underpinning our strategy to develop a long-term vision for a visitor attraction. The roof is not only the most expensive single item on our To Do List, it’s also the most essential to keep out the elements, protect the fleet and make less onerous, the remaining repairs.”
Until recent years there wasn’t a long-term intention for the transport operator to continue the running of Blackpool’s Heritage Trams. The renovation of the Blackpool Tramway and introduction of modern, light rail trams in 2012 replaced the operation of the now Heritage Trams. It is only through the dedication of a team of volunteers and collaborative working with partners across the resort, which has enabled these vehicles to continue to delight residents and visitors to Blackpool’s seafront.
Blackpool Heritage have launched an ambitious fundraiser seeking £1million in donations from people all over the world. This will enable the first, most costly, and most important part of the restoration plans to begin which is the installation of a new roof.
Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours has served more than a quarter of a million customers over the past 7 years, playing an important part in Blackpool’s cultural, educational and heritage offering.
The famous Blackpool Illuminations also depend on the show stopping illuminated trams to bring the seasonal event to life, all of which are operated from the Rigby Road Depot.
Bryan Lindop added “Whilst a million pounds is deceptively easy to say, I fully recognise it’s a big ask, but when all’s said and done, it’s a big roof! I have always believed in the incredible power of lots of people working collectively together for a common cause, and a lot of people making a small contribution can have a major impact on the outcome. Will you help us raise the roof?”