Following the grand opening of a brand new £140m interchange in Stockportyesterday, Andy Burnham has confirmed that the popular commuter town could finally be joining the Transport for Greater Manchester’s tram network.
The Metrolink network – which currently connects Manchester city centre to parts of Salford and residential areas of the city – has seen fantastic developments over the past half a decade, including the extension to the Trafford Centre, the roll-out of dogs being allowed on trams and late night services, and now, it’s confirmed that funds are available to expand the network even further.
Speaking with BBC Radio Manchester yesterday, Mayor Andy Burnham confirmed: “We will bring Metrolink to Stockport, the question is how quickly can we do that.”
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Adding: “We may be able to bring two together in tandem, one going north, one going south, we’re just looking at that at the moment, and we will make a decision at the middle of this year” – meaning not only does TfGM plan to bring the tram network to Stockport, but another location, too. The line could head south to the likes of Cheadle or north and potentially link up with East Didsbury.
Rumours are also currently swirling about tram lines being added to the Oldham area or even Bolton. Burnham confirmed that all of these areas were ‘priorities’ for TfGM and said “we want to take Metrolink to as many places as possible”.
The news will be well-received by commuters looking for reliable options to access the city centre, and will, in turn, open up an array of new opportunities across the city-region for workers who rely on public transport. As part of the newly opened interchange in Stockport, TfGM has also confirmed that space for a tram link has already been included.
The swanky new interchange connects Stockport bus services to the train station with a brand-new walkway, with entrances on Mersey Square, Swaine Street and Daw Bank. Upcoming developments include a new spiral walking and cycling ramp, which will connect the new interchange park with the Trans Pennine Trail. The interchange is part of a £1bn investment to make Stockport a better place to both live and visit.
Stockport Council has also lodged a proposal to connect the town even further with trams to Manchester areas, including Manchester Airport and East Didsbury.