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'Ashton has a very strong case'

Adam Derbyshire
28/ 7/2004

ASHTON MP David Heyes demanded a Metrolink summit with transport minister Alastair Darling last week in a bid to salvage the tram extension into Tameside

He said: "My immediate reaction was one of great anger. The decision came without warning and without explanation.

"Most infuriating was the impression that the London Crossrail and Olympic schemes appeared to be given priority.

"I always knew there were problems with the costing but to suddenly announce what initially appeared to be the end of the Metrolink shocked us all.

"However, during our meeting the following day he insisted that the door was not closed. Instead he told me that we would have to go back to the drawing board. But we are under no illusions, there are problems and it will be difficult.

"Negotiations were due to take place between government officials and local transport chiefs today (Wednesday), which I am pleased about."

Backing the Advertiser's Save the Metro campaign, he added: "Luckily there is a strong case for the Ashton link. The infrastructure is nearly in place. It's almost a case of just laying the tracks.

"Ashton Moss, Henry Square, and the Droylsden marina are so heavily entwined with the Metrolink that we can't afford to sit back and let a void be created."

Stalybridge and Hyde MP, James Purnell, echoed his sentiments and said: "I am confident the problems can be overcome and the scheme will go ahead at some point."

Tory deputy leader Councillor John Bell said: "The future prosperity of Tameside relies heavily on the extension of the Metrolink into Ashton. I urge as many people as possible to make their voices heard and back the Advertiser's Save the Metro campaign."

John Williams, outgoing chairman of the Tameside Chamber of Commerce, described the decision as 'appalling'

Mr Williams said: "I feel like we've been betrayed. A lot of people have invested a lot of time, money and effort and that was based on a firm commitment from the government. Beautiful houses have been demolished and the decision will have a terrible effect on local businesses.

"Any new business which comes to the area boost those that are already here, so a lot of people will be affected."