Council welcomes Metrolink go-ahead

Date published: 24 June 2010

Rochdale Borough Council has welcomed the news that the Government will continue to fund planned extensions to Greater Manchester’s Metrolink tram network.

In response to the announcement made during the Emergency Budget, Councillor Dale Mulgrew, cabinet member for development on Rochdale Borough Council, said:

“This announcement is a real boost for Rochdale and means the plans are still on track for trams to arrive in Rochdale within the next two years. A lot of hard work has already been done so I’m pleased that the new government has recognised the important role this connection will make to regenerating the outer areas of Greater Manchester.

"The trams will stop at Newhey, Milnrow and Newbold as well as Rochdale Railway Station – providing a vital transport link to parts of Oldham and Manchester to support our borough’s regeneration.”

Councillor Mulgrew added: “Also in the budget there was a sensible commitment to continue to see no further reduction in capital spending on major infrastructure projects. This provides hope that later this year the government will confirm funding for a new transport interchange for Rochdale in the heart of the town centre.

“We also hope to see work starting before the end of the year on the preparatory work for the Metrolink extension from the railway station and down Drake Street, and we’re working on securing funding for a tram stop at Kingway Business Park – both of which will play key roles in the future improvements to our town.”