20 May 2016

Blackpool’s tramway dates back to 1885 but now feature modern Flexity 2 trams.

Blackpool Transport has entered into a wide ranging contract to upgrade the vehicle radio communications systems operating across the seaside town’s public transportation system, including its iconic Golden Mile trams.

Blackpool Transport carries 20 million passengers a year. Fifty per cent of that is during the summer season, and over the holiday season the company is said to cover 4.4 million passenger miles.

Its deal with Leyland-based TES Wireless Communications is for a managed service contract.

This entails the provision, commission, and maintenance of a three-site MPT1327 trunked radio system to provide an always-on connection between Blackpool Transport’s bus and tram fleet drivers and its main control rooms.

The new system also provides a dispatcher system for both trams and buses, with each fleet providing potential fallback for the other. In addition, the contract includes a preventative maintenance agreement that provides annual recalibrations and repairs.

“Working with TES demonstrates Blackpool Transport’s commitment to passengers and staff,” said the company’s service delivery director Bob Mason. “It helps ensure safe, punctual and enjoyable journeys.”

TES Wireless Communications has provided communications capability to a number of metropolitan transport networks including London Underground, Manchester Metrolink and Metro do Porto.

The Blackpool tramway runs for 11 miles (18km) from Blackpool to Fleetwood, and dates back to 1885. It was the UK’s last surviving first-generation tramway until it was replaced four years ago by modern Flexity 2 trams. The traditional trams still provide a ‘heritage service’ over the summer, bank holiday weekends, and service tours during the town’s illuminations.