Southampton metro system idea being explored

Manchester's Metrolink system began operating in 1992

The possibility of a metro system for Southampton is being explored, the city council has revealed.

Southampton Citizens' Climate Assembly recently suggested a metro-style transport service as well as a park and ride and better cycling infrastructure.

The city council said it was investigating types of systems and funding options.

The climate assembly saw 40 randomly selected residents explore issues around climate change and transport.

Cabinet member for transport Eamonn Keogh was asked about its recommendations at a meeting of the council.

"The council has acknowledged these recommendations, including progress on the Southampton cycle network, exploration of mass-transit options and the development of a park and ride service for Southampton General Hospital staff," he said.

'Real challenge'

In relation to a metro, Mr Keogh told the meeting the delivery of such networks in other parts of the country had been helped by devolution deals, which the Solent region did not have yet.

"We are moving at a pace that we know but obviously being able to give a timeline to that is going to be a real challenge," he said.

He added that the transport team had already conducted "advanced studies" on the type of mass-transit metro-style system that could be delivered and the funding requirements.

A park and ride for hospital staff, which opened in 2022, was funded as part of the £57m Transforming Cities programme.

Mr Keogh said this showed the value of having a government committed to funding significant infrastructure projects.

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