Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) this week launched a series of businesses engagement events, focusing on proposals for a second Metrolink line through Manchester City Centre.
TfGM has developed proposals for a new Metrolink line to run from the Deansgate-Castlefield stop, through St Peter’s Square, along Princess Street, Cross Street and Corporation Street to re-join the existing Metrolink line just outside Victoria Station.
As part of a public consultation on the plans, TfGM is hosting a series of business forums, where the local businesses community can find out more about the proposed second city line as well as share their views on the plans.
The events will be held at the TfGM offices, 2 Piccadilly Place, Manchester, M1 3BG, on 17 August (8.15am to 9.30am), 19 August (8.15am to 9.30am), 23 August (5.15pm to 6.30pm) and 31 August (5.15pm to 6.30pm).
TfGM’s Metrolink Director, Philip Purdy, explained:
“Manchester is one of the fastest growing cities in Europe and needs a public transport system that will support and nurture its continued economic development.
“The growing Metrolink network will play an integral role in doing just that, opening up new links for people across the region to access employment, education, business and leisure opportunities.
“At the heart of that future tram network will be the second city Metrolink line, providing the capacity, flexibility and reliability for the system to operate and carry thousands of people to and from the city centre every day.
“Given how important this line is to Greater Manchester as a whole, I hope as many businesses as possible take the opportunity to engage with us, finding out what we hope to accomplish as well as sharing their thoughts on what we are planning to do.”
The proposed Second City Crossing would be approximately 1.6km with two stops – a new, larger tram stop at St Peter’s Square and a stop at Exchange Square.
Following confirmation of Transport and Works Act powers and appointment of a contractor, it is anticipated that construction of the second city line is likely to commence in 2013 with the extension set to be in service in late 2016.
Any business interested in attending one of the events can find out more information and register here.
Transport for Greater Manchester is currently holding a public consultation on the Metrolink second city crossing, which will close on Friday 9 September 2011.
More information on the proposals, including how to take part in the consultation, is available here.
TfGM has also worked closely with Manchester City Council to ensure the route fits the Council’s regeneration aspirations for St Peter’s Square, which is expected to contain the busiest tram stop on the expanded network.
