Named after Walter Luff (who, as general manager, introduced the now iconic ‘Balloon’, ‘Boat’ and Railcoaches), ‘Balloon’ No. 717 stands in front of Rigby Road tramshed. Like the tram, the building was a product of the 1930s wave of modernisation. It is one of the last-surviving working sheds in the world from the ‘first generation’ era of tramways that was purpose-built for double-deckers. Over the next five to seven years, it is due to be repaired and transformed into a heritage visitor attraction, which will include an exhibition hall, cafe and archive, as well as workshops and stabling space for the Blackpool Heritage Trams fleet.
UNLESS STATED, ALL PHOTOS TAKEN ON SEPTEMBER 6 BY GRAEME PICKERING