Metrolink pleads for £102m for ailing system

摘要

Manchester Metrolink has asked the Government for £102 million for urgent improvements to the existing network and eight extra trams to reduce chronic overcrowding. The ball remains firmly in the court of the Department for Transport, which seems no closer to coming to a decision after six months sitting on the plans for the £520 million 'big bang' extensions to Oldham/Rochdale, Ashton-under-Lyne and Manchester Airport. Meanwhile, there is increasing concern about the health of the pioneer Bury—city centre— Altrincham route, most of which is on old railway that requires track replacement. Stations require attention, and new ticket machines are also desperately needed.