Metrolink plans get Manchester City Council support

The 2CC scheme along with a new tram link to Manchester Airport will cost £520m

A second city centre tram link in Manchester has got the backing of the city council.

The Labour-led council executive is supporting the proposed Metrolink route called the Second City Crossing (2CC).

The plans will now be considered by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) in November.

The cross-city tram link would take passengers on a new line from St Peter's Square to Victoria Station via Princess Street and Cross Street.

Work on the 2CC, if approved, would begin in 2013 and is scheduled to be finished in late 2016. The project, along with a new link to Manchester Airport, will cost £520m.

Increased demand

Councillor Nigel Murphy, Manchester City Council's (MCC) executive member for the environment, said: "We're pleased that Manchester residents are in favour of this important new link which will greatly improve the public transport network across the city centre."

TfGM said that with passenger numbers set to treble by 2021, an alternative city centre route was "essential" to cope with increased demand created by expansion of the Metrolink network.

The relocation of Manchester's main war memorial, which is currently in St Peter's Square, has been approved by the city council executive to accommodate the new tram line.

The cenotaph will be moved near the town hall and more of a focal point will be made of it, said MCC's chief executive Sir Richard Leese.

He said: "The plans are supported by church and armed forces authorities and the British Legion do not object.

"We will continue to consult with key stakeholders, including heritage agencies, to ensure that the new location is a fitting tribute to the brave men and women who have made such a sacrifice for their country."