Tramtown Museum Set To Close

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Tramtown on Rigby Road has been ordered to close after an independent structural survey concluded that the building is unsafe. Lynn Williams confirmed that the museum’s public entrance had been deemed structurally unsound, stating that the council could not risk reopening the site while safety concerns remain. The announcement follows an earlier temporary closure caused by an electrical fault. While repair work was being carried out, a structural engineer’s inspection identified more serious issues with the building. Williams also said recent high winds had worsened the situation, tearing additional roof panels away and leading to further water ingress.

All vehicles and artefacts have now been removed from the premises and placed into storage. Despite the closure, Williams stressed that the move does not signal the end of Blackpool’s heritage tram programme. She said she and Lea Harrison, managing director of Blackpool Transport, are examining potential options for a temporary or “pop-up” site to allow the collection to reopen to the public as soon as possible. Paul Galley, leader of the Conservative opposition group on Blackpool Council and a volunteer at the museum, said he was “gutted” by the decision. He paid tribute to fellow volunteers and previously described Blackpool’s historic tram fleet as central to the town’s identity.

Williams said discussions have taken place with volunteers about forming a joint steering group to plan the next stage for the collection. She added that she is determined to see the heritage trams operating again this summer and to work towards creating a stronger, more sustainable visitor attraction for the future.