Tram-trains

TRAM-TRAINS could be used in Greater Manchester to expand the light rail network across the city, according to Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling.

Speaking on a visit to the new Wharfside stop, on the £350 million Trafford Park Line extension, Grayling confirmed that the Department for Transport, Network Rail and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) are working on exploring proposals for extensions, and that this could include tramtrains. TfGM will hear the plans before the summer.

Grayling and Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham also agreed on the need for a positive, collaborative approach, to help unlock the potential of both HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail.

“Metrolink has been transformative for Greater Manchester, and I want to see the network expand,” said Grayling.

“A Greater Manchester tram-train also has the potential to seamlessly integrate our existing rail and tram tracks and services. We will work closely to explore proposals which would feature Transport for Greater Manchester running more services, underlining our belief in greater local control.”

Burnham added: “Greater Manchester is a growing city-region, but our transport network and infrastructure is holding us back.

“Bringing innovative tram-trains to Greater Manchester with greater local control and better integration of our transport system is a key part of this vision, and I’m pleased that the Government supports this ambition.”

Tram-trains were introduced in Sheffield last year, running to Rotherham, although that project was late and over-budget, and required new infrastructure. Plans for Manchester would use existing rail and tram infrastructure, with benefits including increased rail capacity, reduced congestion and seamless journeys across the city-region.

The Trafford Park line is due to open next year, and will complete the existing plans to extend the network, which in recent years has also included the Second City Crossing.