The £1bn mega-project to build four new stations in one of UK’s biggest cities
Proposed new Metrolink lines to Stockport, Middleton and Heywood are included in a new map showing the potential future of the Greater Manchester tram network.
Metrolink is set to revolutionise travel in a major UK city - with new blueprints unveiling exciting growth potential which includes new tram links. Greater Manchester with new lines to Stockport, Middleton and Heywood are earmarked in the latest proposals.
In a significant transport development, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham confirmed in June that new tram connections will be established to the three towns. The fresh plans also highlight the importance of "building a business case for Bolton working with government, and complementary priorities."
Stockport's long-awaited Metrolink connection seemed more tangible after the opening of the new Stockport Transport Interchange in March. A recently revealed map showing the possible future expansions indicates that the East Didsbury line could extend right into Stockport town centre.
Andy Burnham has assured that the new interchange in Stockport is "Metrolink ready" and that efforts are underway to develop a solid business case for the network's growth, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The ambitious extension proposals suggest the possibility of trams reaching Middleton and the introduction of tram-train services connecting Bury, Heywood, Rochdale, and Oldham, converging at the Atom Valley business hub.
Further enhancements could see the Metrolink network grow within Salford, requiring '1.5km of new construction' to forge a link between Salford Quays and Salford Crescent. Additional lines on the Trafford Park route towards Salford Community Stadium and Port Salford are also under consideration.
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has unveiled plans to integrate local train services into the Bee Network by 2028, with efforts to bring buses under local control continuing until 2025.
Eight 'priority corridors' have been identified to initiate railway integration, incorporating existing lines in Wigan, Manchester Airport, Stockport, Ashton-under-Lyne, Rochdale, among others.
Additionally, 15 travel networks are included in the plans to expand Greater Manchester's 'rapid transit system', offering residents quick and frequent services such as trains, trams, and buses.
These new transport plans for the region will be presented at a GMCA meeting in Salford on Friday.
