Collision between a tram and a pedestrian at Fleetwood Road

At 18:10 hrs on 24 November 2021, a tram on the Blackpool tram system struck a pedestrian, who sustained serious injuries as a result. The pedestrian later died.

The accident occurred at a pedestrian crossing located within the segregated section of the tramway which lies beyond the road junction of Fleetwood Road and Queen’s Promenade in Cleveleys, Blackpool. Although the junction itself is controlled by road traffic lights, the pedestrian crossing where the accident occurred is not of a controlled type.

The tram involved in the accident had just departed Anchorsholme Lane tram stop and was heading southbound towards Starr Gate when the accident occurred. CCTV images show that road traffic at the junction had stopped to allow the tram to pass over the junction and into the segregated section of the tramway.

Our investigation will seek to identify the sequence of events which led to the accident. It will also consider:

• The actions of those involved.

• The design and configuration of the crossing which the pedestrian was using.

• How the design and operation of the crossing was risk assessed.

• The relevant legislation and industry guidance which deals with the design and configuration of pedestrian crossings on tramways.

• Any underlying factors.

Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.

We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website.

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