Browse Sections

• Education
• Roadworks
• Shipman
• Special reports

MP joins fight to save trams

Adam Derbyshire
4/ 8/2004

MP JAMES Purnell has pledged to turn up the heat on the Government to ensure the Metrolink extension goes ahead.

Speaking after discussing the transport minister's bombshell announcement with local transport officials and 10 other MPs from across Greater Manchester, he said: "I was very disappointed by Alistair Darling's decision when I first heard about it. It is now clear from the case we've put together over the last week that the decision is without doubt the wrong one.

"Metrolink has been a great success, both in terms of improving our transport links and supporting the wholesale regeneration of Greater Manchester. That's why I have always supported the planned Phase 3 extension of the scheme, and in particular the link to Ashton."

It was hoped six million passengers a year could be carried by the six-mile link, which would save an estimated two million car journeys.

Mr Purnell, Stalybridge and Hyde MP, added: "Although the line will not go through my own constituency, it would certainly improve our transport links and ease congestion on existing forms of travel.

"However, the Metrolink is about more than just transport. It's about attracting investment, creating jobs, opening up new opportunities for people and spreading the prosperity of Manchester city centre out to the periphery. This is why Metrolink is worth the cost.

"A massive £200m has already been spent on the project with large areas cleared of buildings and even a new school built in Droylsden. We should be building on this investment not abandoning it.

"This is the wrong decision for Tameside, Greater Manchester, and the Government. We will be pushing hard for Alistair Darling to reconsider his decision and I hope that all local residents will give us their backing."