Speaking at the most recent meeting of the Full Council, Stockport Council Leader Mark Hunter was able to update Councillors on the ‘Next Stop Stockport’ campaign to get Metrolink to the borough.
Speaking at the meeting Cllr Hunter said: “The extension of the network to Stockport has been promised many times but we are still waiting despite all the assurances. There have been any number of dramatic announcements, telling us that delivery of the business case is ‘imminent’ – but still we wait for our turn.
“Let’s not forget that when Metrolink was first introduced in Greater Manchester over 30 years ago, it was always understood that all parts of the city region would eventually benefit. After all, we have all paid into the investment in transport infrastructure through our Council Tax precepts over many years, yet Stockport residents are still to enjoy the benefits of the network locally.
“We have worked closely with the GMCA, TfGM and before that GMPTE, and AGMA, to advance our case and, we have engaged constructively at every step. We have even protected the preferred line of the route through the Stockport town centre within our transformation agenda and the work of the MDC. The new Transport Interchange, currently being completed, has been designed and built specifically in a way that can accommodate the arrival of Metrolink. Everything is in place – we just need the green light from Andy Burnham and co.
“Well, some of us feel we have waited quite long enough. Our patience is exhausted. The ‘Next Stop Stockport’ campaign is designed to highlight our demands and what we believe to be an irrefutable case to the relevant authorities and make clear we have been patient for quite long enough. We need action, not words and the time for talking has passed.
Cllr Hunter went on to advise Councillors that Mayor Burnham has been invited to a roundtable event with local business leaders in December.
Cllr Hunter added: “Our business leaders are fully on board with our efforts and the Mayor will hear directly from them just how important it is the finally come good on this longstanding promise to bring Metrolink to Stockport.”
