Greater Manchester region will benefit from a large investment in improving transport across the county
The government has today announced that the Greater Manchester region will receive £2.5bn in new funding, helping to create the UK’s first fully integrated, zero-emission public transport network.
As part of this new development - which aims to transform and streamline public transport across the county - Stockport will receive a Metrolink line, extending the tram services outwards from the city towards the town.
Greater Manchester is set for a bumper transport deal with £2.5bn coming to the city in the next seven years — with 1,000 buses, new tram stops, tram-trains, revamped interchanges, and a Metrolink extension in the offing.
The government announcement paves the way for Metrolink trams to FINALLY run to Stockport town centre after years of campaigning – as well purchasing 1,000 new electric Bee Network buses and three stops on existing tram lines.
With the funding also comes 1,000 additional buses, new tram stops, tram-trains and revamped interchanges alongside the Metrolink extension, with proposals for a new Metrolink stop at Sandhills in Collyhurst,Elton Reservoir in Bury, and Cop Road in Oldham, supporting ongoing investment in these areas and driving future phases of regeneration in the north Manchester neighbourhood.
Manchester City Council Leader, Bev Craig, is in support of the developments, saying: “Today’s £2.5bn zero-emissions transport funding announcement is transformative news for Manchester and the city region. Manchester has campaigned for many years to see investment in our transport system. In a settlement that was better than we predicted and will make a real difference right across the city.
“We have already seen the success of bringing the buses under public control and this will be a much-needed boost to improve capacity for years to come.
“This investment will also help create new homes and new jobs – and it is a clear show of support from this government towards our sustainable growth agenda.
“Crucially for Manchester, this funding will help deliver the brand new Metrolink stop at Sandhills in Collyhurst and unlock the ambitious future phases of regeneration in this community that will see more than 2,500 new homes – including significant Council and social housing – and new shops alongside education and medical facilities.
“This is a major driver for the future investment in Collyhurst as part of the once-in-a-generation Victoria North regeneration programme that will deliver more than 15,000 new homes in the next decade across seven neighbourhoods, each connected by quality green space.
“But this is only one element of the ambitious plans for North Manchester. We look forward to working closely with this Government in the coming months to realise the wider potential of this part of our city through the North Manchester General Hospital programme, continued investment into our high streets and district centres, and a raft of new home buildings that puts North Manchester as a priority for our future growth plans.”
Timescales are yet to be announced of when the construction will start but, with funding available between 2027-2032, it’s expected we will see advancements over the coming few years.
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