‘It's been promised for years...now it's happening'

Government confirms Metrolink extension to Heywood

- BY FIONA-MAY SWANSON, GEORGE LYTHGOE Local Democracy Service

TRAMS have been promised to Heywood for years and now it's finally happening, but locals have curbed their enthusiasm.

Public transport has long been a taboo subject in the town on the border of Rochdale and Bury.

A lack of links to Manchester and neighbouring towns has been a gripe for residents in these parts.

Now there is hope the arrival of Metrolink could solve some of those problems.

Greater Manchester will get a £2.5bn slice of the £15bn promised for northern transport projects. This includes cash for new buses, tram stops, tram-trains and inter-changes in the city-region.

Alongside Stockport, Heywood is set to get the iconic yellow tram rolling on a new line connecting their town to Bury and Rochdale tram stops.

Both of these tram terminuses then have connections towards Manchester city centre.

For locals, they say 'it's about time' they got it.

"This town needs something, and this has been promised for so long," Geoff Bickerton said.

"Overall it's run down and in decline.

"We've been promised money for so long and with nothing coming from it. This could be the kick start we need, but people have a lack of faith.

"That's because of what's happened in the past with false promises. We need more affordable housing to go with this as well because if the town is getting regenerated we need housing that is affordable to go with that." Geoff operates the printing service in Heywood Market, where business owners were excited by the prospect of trams shipping in more punters.

Ashleigh Wardle, who runs Omorfia nail bar, said: "I'm from Heywood and it is such a small town,

"I'm just wondering where this is going to go.

"However, if people are coming from other towns, it would be good for business. As Heywood is so small, it's a strong community and this would give those who can't drive the ability to travel places."