In 2012 Blackpool tramway opened following a £100m upgrade. The upgrade included track and vehicle replacement, replacing heritage vehicle run services with a fleet of 16 modern tram vehicles. A new depot was also developed.
How we helped
Steer successfully supported Blackpool Council with obtaining funding from the Department for Transport for the upgrade from Programme Entry in 2008 to Full Business Case approval in 2009, and delivered the subsequent monitoring programme.
Steer led the development of the business case to obtain funding from Government for the tram upgrade project.
In addition, we provided support to Blackpool and Lancashire councils on:
We also prepared the transport statement which supported the planning application for the new depot.
Steer played a pivotal role in helping Blackpool Council develop its tramway network. Recently, it developed a Full Business Case for an extension of the tram from the North Pier to Blackpool North. This scheme obtained Transport & Works Act Order (TWAO) powers in 2017 and is currently on site.
Successes & outcomes
The business case for the upgrade resulted in £100m of funding to enhance Blackpool’s tram infrastructure. The upgraded new vehicles reduced some journey times by up to 15 minutes which is of significant benefit to passengers.
The success of the upgrade provided the foundation for the network to expand. Improvements in the Blackpool Tramway will support the town in its ambitions to maximise growth and opportunity.
Yes, you are in the right place. After 40 years, we have changed our name from Steer Davies Gleave to mark our growing international footprint and our expanding portfolio into markets beyond transportation.
Explore our new website to learn more about Steer: who we are, how we work and what our future holds.