There have recently been proposals outlining the case for increasing the frequency of trains on the Blackpool South/South Fylde Railway Line by introducing a 'passing loop' on the line. The bid is now being considered by the DfT's Restoring Your Railway Fund. However, the proposed location of this loop does not appear to provide scope for the extension of the tramway into the South Fylde region alongside.

This would be a major short-sighted mistake, as it would preclude a revolutionary transport scheme linking St Anne's and Lytham to a fast, frequent and accessible light rail service. Putting the locals first should be a priority, and a service that is double to triple the frequency, with a lessened environmental impact and improved accessibility than the passing loop plan would do just that.

There are options which support both light and heavy rail options, and these must be considered before any proposals which prevent the opportunity to link thousands of locals and visitors across the Fylde Coast.

We, the locals, visitors, and interested parties on the Fylde Coast urge the decision makers to consider these options carefully and ensure that they are compatible with light rail.