Metrolink will finally arrive in the town centre

Announcement is part of £2.5bn transport deal for the GM region

- BY ETHAN DAVIES

A METROLINK line to Stockport WILL be built.

The long-awaited confirmation came as Greater Manchester secured a huge transport deal.

Announced by the government on June 4, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) will be given £2.5bn to spend on projects.

It includes a cash commitment to extend tramlines to the town.

The Express understands it will finally mean spades in the ground and a firm plan for construction.

Coun Mark Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council, said: "We're absolutely delighted that the government has backed funding to bring Metrolink to Stockport - this is a huge moment for our borough and for Greater Manchester.

"Stockport is the fastest growing town in Greater Manchester, and the decision sends a powerful signal that investment is following ambition.

"We've already delivered the award-winning, Metrolink-ready Stockport interchange and the UK's largest town centre regeneration - now, we're ready to roll up our sleeves and get on site to deliver Metrolink. And this isn’t just a win for Stockport.

"It's a major step towards delivering the UK’s first fully integrated, zero-emission public transport system across the whole of Greater Manchester - and Stockport is proud to be right at the heart of it."

Coun Grace Baynham, Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transport Services, said: “We've got a strong track record of working with Transport for Greater Manchester, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, our business community and national partners to turn big ideas into real results - and this one’s no different.