AGMA approves £500m tram extensions

GREATER Manchester’s Integrated Transport Authority has confirmed that the three proposed Metrolink extensions to Manchester Airport, Oldham and Rochdale town centres would go ahead despite funding cuts being announced elsewhere by the government.

The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) gave its approval to provide funding of up to £500m to ensure that the projects would be able to go ahead. AGMA also approved funding for a new cross-city bus network.

As a result, trams should run into the centre of Rochdale and Oldham’s town centres by spring 2014. The tram system to the airport should be complete by 2016.

Lord Peter Smith, Chair of the AGMA Executive, said: “Public transport has a crucial part to play in supporting Greater Manchester’s economy and these Metrolink extensions will give a huge boost to the region.

 “I am delighted that these vital projects can now go ahead. These new Metrolink lines in particular will also be the catalyst for regeneration in several areas, so the announcement is great news.”

The news was welcomed by Greater Manchester Chamber of commerce, among others. The chamber’s policy manager for Transport, Richard Critchley, said:

“This is a huge commitment to invest in Greater Manchester’s transport infrastructure, which will clearly be welcomed by the business community. 

“Following a harsh recession and recent government cutbacks, today’s announcement is positive for Rochdale, Oldham and South Manchester and will provide a much needed confidence boost to the construction sector within the region.”