It was only a few days ago that a 'Plan B' for the future of Manchester's public transport was devised and already it seems that the dreams of bus, train and tram users around Greater Manchester are coming true. Forget the need for a congestion charge, we're getting a huge package of projects anyway. There will be a price of course, much of the £1.4bn will be based on loans.
We're busy covering the Futuresonic Festival over the next few days so we'll publish more analysis of the news after that. In short though:
Yay! Cross-city buses and Metrolink extensions.
Boo! Public borrowing, new roads being built and no smartcard system being introduced.
In the meantime, have a read of the Manchester Evening News' coverage and take in the great news.
The facilities for smartcards are being introduced in a few months. Just not being used yet!
Posted by: Simon, Riverside | May 13, 2009 at 07:49 PM
I was disappointed to find the inclusion of the Ashton Northern bypass and the Mottram bypass plans. With the costs in the consultation process and the environmental impact alone, the latter should be scrapped for good.
The money should instead go towards reopening the Woodhead line, extending the Metrolink further to Hyde and Stalybridge (via Mottram, Hattersley and Dukinfield), and reopening railway stations in Diggle and Droylsden.
Posted by: Stuart Vallantine | May 15, 2009 at 11:59 AM
The smartcard system was the only thing that really benefited me at the moment. All these tram bus and train improvements will seldom benefit me, because non of them come near me or go to my final destinations.
I wanted a clever card. :'(
Posted by: Danny | May 15, 2009 at 12:09 PM
Droylsden will have the wonderful problem solving metrolink so there is no need for a train. And all the people on Diggle have 4 x 4s so they dont need one either. Whats the Ashton Northern Bypass? I know about the Mottram one which is defo needed although i would sent the m67 to the m1 if it was upto me.
Posted by: Simon, Riverside. | May 15, 2009 at 07:11 PM