In April 2001, Blackpool Transport, the local public transport provider, underwent a significant rebranding, changing its identity to Metro Coastlines. This move was part of an ambitious plan to modernise the service and make it more appealing to locals and tourists alike. As part of the rebrand, Blackpool Transport introduced a new colour-coded system for its bus services, where each main bus route was assigned a distinct colour, creating a visual identity that made it easier for passengers to identify the routes. This colour-coded approach extended to Blackpool’s famous tramway along the promenade, which also adopted a version of this new look. The tram system, already a significant part of the town’s character, was given a modern twist, aligning with the new branding and contributing to the revitalisation of Blackpool’s public transport image. The logo went through a transition from the first version with the arc and triangle, to a later version without the arc and triangle. Alas, the Metro Coastlines brand was short-lived. However, two Metro trams have survived, of a fashion.
On 26 July 2010, Blackpool Transport made the decision to revert to its original name, Blackpool Transport. This decision marked the end of the Metro Coastlines era and a return to the company’s roots. As part of this rebranding, the buses were given a new logo featuring Blackpool’s iconic Tower and stylised waves, symbols that have long been associated with the town’s seaside heritage. The buses were also repainted in black and yellow, providing a striking and recognisable look that evoked the town’s vibrant character. At the same time, the trams were updated with a purple and white colour scheme, designed to match Blackpool Council’s main colours. This new design was meant to unify the look of the town’s transport systems under the broader visual identity of the town itself. However, unlike the buses, the trams no longer featured the Tower and waves logo, which was a distinct feature of the bus fleet. The decision to create separate identities for buses and trams reflected a shift in strategy, aiming for each mode of transport to have its own visual identity while still being part of the same overall transport network.
The roots of Blackpool Transport can be traced back to 1885, when the town council first set up the organisation. For much of its early history, Blackpool Transport operated under public ownership, providing essential transport services to the people of Blackpool and its visitors. Over the years, Blackpool Transport’s fleet grew, and the company became an integral part of the town’s infrastructure, helping to support the booming tourist economy. In 1986, Blackpool Transport underwent a major change, becoming a separate company from the town council. This move was part of a broader trend of local authorities selling off or restructuring their public services during the 1980s. Despite becoming an independent company, Blackpool Transport remained a publicly-owned entity, with the town council retaining control.
In 1994, Blackpool Transport expanded its operations by acquiring Fylde Borough Transport, a bus company also known as Blue Buses. Blue Buses had previously been privately owned but had briefly gone into public ownership before the acquisition. This move further strengthened Blackpool Transport’s position as the primary provider of bus and tram services in the area. Today, Blackpool Transport remains a vital part of the town’s infrastructure, operating buses, trams, and even a fleet of electric buses in recent years. It continues to serve the local community and visitors, ensuring that transport remains efficient and accessible, with a growing focus on sustainability. The company’s history reflects Blackpool’s broader evolution, from its status as a bustling seaside resort to its modern-day emphasis on tourism, heritage, and public services. The rebranding efforts over the years demonstrate Blackpool Transport’s commitment to adapting to the needs of its customers, ensuring the town’s transport system remains both functional and in tune with the town’s identity.
Some of the Corgi buses featured below were purchased from Brooks Collectibles, just of Blackpool Promenade.

Tram departing from Starr Gate station in Lancshire,UK. Image shot 2008. © Alamy

Bus Shelter Poster

Promotional poster

Corgi Single-Deck Tram

Corgi Double-Decker Tram

Corgi Teal Double-Decker Bus

Corgi Green Double-Decker Bus

Corgi Teal Single-Decker Bus



Blackpool Metro tram at North Pier © Alamy
Featured Image © Deeper Blue Marketing & Design Ltd
Images by © Deeper Blue Marketing & Design Ltd