Plans to extend the Nottingham tram were today given the green light by the Government when Transport Minister Norman Baker announced today that savings have been identified to make the project more affordable.
The two extensions are planned to go to Chilwell/Beeston and Clifton, linking directly into Line One at Nottingham Station.
Today’s decision will now allow Nottingham City Council to continue to the next stage of the funding approval process.
Norman Baker said:
“Line One of the Nottingham tram has proved to be a great success in encouraging people on to public transport. These proposed extensions provide the opportunity to continue this success, and give people in the south of Nottingham quicker, more convenient access to the city centre, as well as helping to regenerate sections of the city.
“Following the spending review last year, we challenged Nottingham City Council to look again at the cost of the Nottingham light rail extension, to be funded through the Private Finance Initiative, to ensure we get maximum value for every pound we spend.
“The Department has been working closely with the local authority involved to ensure this project is affordable. I am delighted that the Council has risen to the challenge and has identified savings from its original estimated costs.
“By finding savings, I can confirm that we are today allowing this project to move another step forward within our funding approval process.”
Nottingham City Council can now continue its procurement processes and, subject to approval of a final business case, be able to award the concessionaire contract.
