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End of the line for Metrolink dream

20/ 7/2004

PLANS to extend the Metrolink tram network to Ashton were blocked today (Tuesday) after the government pulled the plug on cash to fund the line.

Secretary of State for Transport Alastair Darling was outlining his transport spending plan for the next 10 to 15 years this afternoon - and transport bosses were hoping he would approve £520m funding for the Metrolink extension.

But Mr Darling today told MPs in the House of Commons that the plan for new lines to Oldham and Rochdale, Ashton and south Manchester had not been approved.

This means there is no prospect of any of the three lines being built in the foreseeable future.

At the same time, Mr Darling announced the Government was giving its backing to a £10bn rail scheme to link east and west London, and that it will give an extra £340m to transport links needed to underpin London's bid for the 2012 Olympics.

Greater Manchester transport chairman Councillor Roger Jones said: "Alastair Darling has effectively killed off light rail in Britain if he won't approve Manchester, because ours is the best scheme. We were expecting Manchester to be approved, or at least half-approved, but instead it looks as though the £520 million is not coming our way.

"I think it is a step back of monumental proportions for Manchester and for public transport. I am outraged by the decision."

Emergency talks were taking place this afternoon between Coun Jones, Lord Peter Smith, leader of the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities, and Richard Leese, leader of Manchester city council. In a joint statement, they said: "This is a major blow to Greater Manchester and an appalling decision.

"It fails to recognise the inherent success of Metrolink to date and its contribution to a continued regeneration of the area. We will remain steadfast in our determination to bring an expanded Metrolink to the area."

They added: "We are asking for an urgent meeting with the secretary of state and we will work with Greater Manchester MPs to ensure that government joins up its decision making."

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