Work on the final phase of the Blackpool and Fleetwood Tramway upgrading can now start thanks to the final confirmation of a £68.3m cash injection from the Government.
Transport Minister Sadiq Khan today announced full approval for completion of the upgrading of the Tramway. This announcement secures Central Government`s final contribution towards the £100 million upgrading programme, and allows the promoters to place an order for new vehicles and to appoint contractors for the scheme.
The announcement follows the local transport plan major scheme business case application, put together by Steer Davies Gleave (SDG), working with Blackpool Council, Lancashire County Council and other project advisors. This application confirmed the justification for Central Government funding and was based on firm tender prices.
Transport consultants Steer Davies Gleave have been working with the promoters since 2000, developing a fundable upgrade proposition for the Tramway system, and leading the preparation of an earlier business case which resulted in a Government contribution of £10.7m for ‘Emergency Works’ announced in 2006. SDG also led the development of the latest LTP major scheme funding application, and was closely involved in negotiations with the Department for Transport leading up to today’s announcement.
The further improvements will include refurbishment of much of the track on the route to Fleetwood, new tram stops, a new tram depot at Starr Gate, as well as 16 new fully accessible trams. The historic trams will continue to serve Blackpool's famous seafront promenade.
Bombardier Transportation has been selected as preferred bidder to supply the new trams, with BAM Nuttall preferred bidder for track renewal and tram stops. Volker Fitzpatrick has been chosen to build the new tram depot.
"This is a fantastic result for the Blackpool and Fleetwood tramway and Steer Davies Gleave is proud to have been involved in the project" said SDG's project manager, Steve Hunter.
Work is expected to begin shortly for completion in 2012.
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