All the Blackpool South to Preston rail service requires is a bidirectional dynamic passing loop between Lytham and St Annes.
Andsell and Fairhaven 2 tracks and 1 operational platform, trains calling there would use track on platform side. No new platforms to build.
Why go to all the trouble and expense converting it to a slower tramway service terminating at Kirkham? (another Ormskirk Kirby)
Walking out to a windswept sand blasting promenade in Winter for a slow tram is not very inviting!
Blackpool South is a good fairly fast service (although Arriva trains / DfT are causing massive inconvenience in Blackpool, atm cancellations /RRBs -must be costing Blackpool's trade a packet)
Dr Beeching said keep Central Station, and make it a transport hub!! Blackpool Council persuaded BR to keep North Station.
Several reasons.
1) Blackpool South isn't near the town centre and other stations don't link well with economic centres (eg Pleasure Beach Station a long walk from main entrance), effectively requiring a modal change in order to reach important areas. More people from Lytham and St Anne's travel to Blackpool than anywhere else so that's the link that should be improved and an extension of the tramway would be an easy way to do that. A link by tram to Blackpool North would offer a much wider variety of services and may become a preferred station for some people.
2) The current stations don't well serve the residential population of South Fylde, because those living between stations don't bother with the service and wouldn't even with increased frequency. Light rail would provide many more stops.
3) Accessibility. We all know the infamous 'mind the gap' phrase! Much less of an issue for trams with level boarding for wheelchairs, buggies etc.
4) It's a very well supported idea. It's being campaigned for locally and thousands of people have petitioned for it to happen. The existing tram service has 97% satisfaction.
5) Environmental impact. There are no plans to electrify the South Line even if a passing loop is pursued. Why should more diesel services be encouraged over much greener light rail, in direct opposition of both local and national policies?
6) Congestion reduction. There are only two roads between Blackpool and South Fylde which leads to congestion. A new light rail link to service key areas would reduce this for reasons given above. There are opportunities to enhance this further by providing park and ride in the Squires Gate area.
7) Reliability. Thanks to the Northern fiasco and RMT strikes even an hourly rail service has been a rarity! There's every chance that a passing loop and 30 minute frequency wouldn't be met at all times by the operator (who would have no obligation to do so anyway).
Lots more reasons but that's off the top of my head!