Blackpool buses and trams get in gear for illuminations

As the big illuminations ‘switch-on’ fast approaches, Blackpool Transport is shining a light on its plans to step up services during the seaside town’s busiest time of the year.

Over the next few months, the bus and tramway operator is taking a fresh approach to managing the massive influx of visitors, with a renewed focus on helping them make the most of the world-famous spectacle while minimising travel disruption for residents on the Fylde Coast. 

Jamie Swift, Head of Service Delivery at Blackpool Transport, explained: “Throughout the illuminations season, trams will primarily follow the usual timetable, and we will only divert buses away from the promenade at particularly busy times.

“To avoid any confusion, these bus diversions will be in place on all Fridays and Saturdays between August 29 and November 1, but at other times we’ll take a more flexible approach.

“Buses will continue to run along the promenade when traffic is moving freely, which means visitors to the seafront will not have to go out of their way to catch a bus back home or to their accommodation, preventing any unnecessary inconvenience.

“While we plan to run trams to the usual timetable, including our regular services to North Station, there may be occasions when traffic on Talbot Road causes unavoidable delays, and we will temporarily revert to a mainline only service.”

Kicking off a season of top events on the Fylde Coast, including Blackpool’s annual Fireworks Championship, the switch-on of the lights is set to take place on Friday, August 29, with pop superstar Olly Murs lined up to flick the switch.

Due to the expected crowds, trams will operate a ‘split service’, and anyone travelling towards Starr Gate can catch the tram at Manchester Square, while North Pier is the best stop for customers heading for Fleetwood and Cleveleys. Buses will also be diverted away from the promenade from 12.00 noon.

“Throughout the illuminations season, customers are urged to keep an eye on Blackpool Transport’s website and app for service updates, as well as our social media channels,” Jamie said.

“They should also allow a little extra time for their journeys during Blackpool’s busiest and most exciting times of the year,” he added.

For further details of bus and tram services during ‘switch-on’ and the illuminations season, click here.