Committee to discuss report on city Metrolink line

Members of the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee's capital projects and policy sub committee will consider a report on plans for a second Metrolink tram line through Manchester city centre at a meeting this Friday.

Subject to their approval, an application for a Transport & Works Act Order will be made to secure the powers to construct and operate the new route.

Cllr Roger Jones, chairman of the capital projects and policy sub committee, said: "We have had a very positive response to the Second City Crossing proposals not just in terms of the number of responses but in what people had to say about the scheme.

"I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to find out about the plans either through the brochure, the website or at one of the many face-to-face events that were held, and for sharing their thoughts with us.

"The Second City Crossing is a crucial part of the expanding Metrolink network, so it is vital that we get it right: that involves balancing the wider city centre strategy and the views of people who live, work and do business there with the best solution for the system and the public purse."

The report said almost three in four responses to the public consultation over plans for a second Metrolink tram line through Manchester city centre were positive.

Transport for Greater Manchester carried out the 14-week consultation to ask people for their views on plans for a second line, known as the Second City Crossing or 2CC for short, following St Peter's Square, Princess Street, Cross Street and Corporation Street to Manchester Victoria.

At the same time, Manchester City Council held a related consultation over plans to relocate the Cenotaph within St Peter's Square.

The 2CC line would involve new stops at St Peter's Square and Exchange Square.

The report shows that more than 1,200 responses were received, 93% from members of the public and 7% from stakeholders, such as businesses, organisations and community groups.

Of the responses, 71% were positive overall, while 19% were negative and 10% were neutral.

Following confirmation of Transport & Works Act powers and appointment of a contractor, it is anticipated that construction of the second city line is likely to commence in 2013.