The ambitious plans which could see two Greater Manchester towns linked by tram for first time
06.10.2023 - 05:49
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Bury's new transport plans contain some major developments and, with £68m to roll out the plans already secured, council leaders will approve the strategy at a meeting later this week. One proposal is to introduce new technology so that Metrolink services can be used on the previous rail network between Bury and Rochdale via Heywood.
The scheme, which would see the former Calder Valley line restored, was earmarked for government funding through the Restoring Your Railway Fund but this was pulled in January due to rising costs. According to Bury council, Transport for Greater Manchester is currently developing plans that would see a rail link between Heywood, Rochdale and Oldham using tram-train technology.
The report said: “We are exploring the potential for a connection between Heywood and Bury, with the longer-term aim of linking to the existing Metrolink networks in the north of Manchester and improving connectivity to the Calder Valley Line.
READ MORE: Chilling footage shows killer driver filming Snapchat video moments before horror crash
READ MORE: Family's fury after boy, 5, dies days after he's sent home from hospital
“The focus of the project will be to create the next generation Metrolink vehicle, tram-train infrastructure. The ultimate proposal will provide new technology that will allow Metrolink vehicles to operate on existing heavy rail lines as well as the Metrolink lines.”
Bury’s vision for improved connectivity within the borough also includes a new Metrolink stop at Elton reservoir with this element part of the Places For Everyone masterplan which could see more than 2,000 homes built close to the existing reservoir.
Another key pledge in the strategy is the delivery of a new £84m Interchange in