By 2012 four new lines will nearly double the size of the tram network with 20 miles of new track and 27 new Metrolink stops. The new lines will go to Oldham and Rochdale, Chorlton and Droylsden. The first of the new extensions opened to MediaCityUK in September 2010.

These new lines will help reduce congestion on our roads with five million fewer car journeys every year, and will increase the number of trips passengers make each day from 55,000 to more than 90,000.

In May 2009, a special fund of £1.5 billion was agreed for 15 transport schemes in Greater Manchester. These include further Metrolink extensions to Oldham and Rochdale town centres, Didsbury, Manchester Airport, Ashton-under-Lyne and a second route across Manchester city centre. In July 2010, funding was confirmed and in August 2010 the contract awarded for the construction of the extension to Oldham town centre and Rochdale town centre and also the construction of a new line to Manchester airport.

We have introduced a number of other changes. A total of 62 new trams have been ordered to run across the existing network and the new lines. The first were introduced into service at the end of December 2009. Passengers will experience quieter, smoother journeys, less crowding at peak times and a more reliable service.

We’ve also installed new state-of-the-art ticket machines and are improving our passenger facilities and information.

See the network map with the new extensions.

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