Metrolink boost for town as Chancellor splashes the cash

MP welcomes confirmed funding for extension to Heywood

- BY LEE GRIMSDITCH

AN MP said she is thrilled the Metrolink will be coming to Heywood after chancellor Rachel Reeves visited Rochdale to announce the Government's multi-billion pound investment in public transport across the North.

Alongside Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, the Chancellor addressed the press at Mellor Bus based on Miall Street on the £15.6 billion funding package for the mayoral regions.

Greater Manchester is set to receive £2.5 billion for projects, including new tram stops in Bury, Manchester, and Oldham and an extension of the tram network to Stockport.

Previously, Andy Burnham called the announcement a “game-changing moment that will underpin Greater Manchester's green growth for years to come.”

Elsie Blundell, MP for Heywood and Middleton North, has welcomed 'the confirmation of Government funding for the Metrolink extension to Heywood!

She said: “Since I was elected, I have worked hard to make the case for more transport investment in our area.

“Today, it has paid off, with the announcement of the UK’s biggest ever local transport investment, including the Metrolink for Heywood.

“Working with Andy Burnham, the Labour Government has listened to the need of towns and communities at risk of being left behind, even when they are within a successful city region like Greater Manchester.

“Transport connectivity is more important than ever before, which is why this is transformational.

“I'm delighted that Metrolink is finally coming to Heywood.”

Elsewhere in the UK, a £1.5 billion investment in South Yorkshire will encompass £530 million to renew the region's trams, while the East Midlands will be allocated £2 billion to design a new mass transit system between Derby and Nottingham.