The Ministry of Transport has agreed to award full approval to two further Manchester Metrolink extensions which will see the expansion of the Metrolink system to both Ashton and East Didsbury.   

The full approval allows the scheme promoter, Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) to enter into the design and construction contract for the two extensions. GMPTE expect to commence construction in 2010 and currently envisage both extensions to be ready for passenger service in 2013.

These schemes will not only improve access to Manchester City Centre but will also assist areas in Greater Manchester gain more jobs and increase access to community facilities.  

The work has already begun on laying track from Piccadilly to Droylsden on the Ashton extension. This means that the remainder of the line, from Droylsden's Concord Suite through Audenshaw and Ashton Moss, into Ashton town centre, can be continued as a single seamless project.

Andrew Gwynne MP said:  

“I am very satisfied with the announcement that Manchester Metro will extend into both Ashton and Audenshaw.  I certainly lobbied the Transport Secretary last year, to get completion of Metrolink as a public spending commitment. It is good news for local people that this is going ahead.”