Blackpool light-rail system reopens (thanks to supportive local authorities, and Minister Norman Baker!)

Link to 'Blackpool Gazette' web site and video

"After four years of work, Blackpool’s £100m new tramway is finally open for business. The first passenger journey from Starr Gate to Fleetwood saw VIPs and competition winners board one of the new Bombardier Flexity trams for today’s historic journey. 

Blackpool Transport managing director Trevor Roberts said:

"We are bringing in a new era for the tramway, but that is what was needed.

Without this investment, we would have been restricted to a shortened tramway for use as a tourist attraction only, but we now have the chance to build the economy of the Fylde with a proper public transport system."

Link to
BBC News.