Blackpool Transport teams up with high tech communication specialists

Blackpool Transport, has announced a major new deal with a high tech communications business in order to upgrade their radio communications systems.

The deal with Leyland based TES Wireless Communications is for a managed service contract that involves the provision, commission and maintenance of a three site MPT1327 trunked radio system, that enables an always on connection between bus or tram drivers and control rooms.

In addition, the new system will provide a dispatcher system for both trams and buses, with each providing potential fall back for the other.

Bob Mason, Blackpool Transport’s service delivery director, said: “During the course of a year Blackpool Transport carries 20 million passengers so communications systems are an integral part of the network’s ability to ensure both passenger and staff safety. TES have 25 years of radio technology expertise and they are specialists in our field, having provided communications capability to a number of significant transport networks including London Underground, Manchester Metrolink and Metro do Porto.

Keith Edwards, managing director of TES Wireless Communications, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Blackpool Transport – it is an iconic business that is recognised by millions of people who have visited Blackpool and travelled on the town’s buses and iconic trams. Their operation covers 4.4 million passenger miles per year, which is the equivalent of eighteen return journeys to the moon. "The system we are providing is robust and unlike a mobile network, won’t have coverage issues, drop out or be switched off in an emergency situation.”