Greater Manchester Outlines Long-Term Metrolink and Tram-Train Underground in City Centre

The two surface light rail routes which pass through central Manchester are now facing significant capacity constraints.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has set out the next phase of work to expand the Metrolink light rail system and develop tram-train services across the city region.

The Bee Network Committee and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority have approved a programme of projects scheduled for delivery beyond 2030, with £6m allocated to fund early planning and business case development.

Key Projects in Development

• Stockport Extension – A Strategic Outline Case for extending Metrolink from East Didsbury to Stockport will be completed this autumn, with construction targeted to begin in 2030. The study will also assess tram-train options to Hazel Grove, Tameside via Denton and Reddish, and Manchester Airport.

• Airport Line ‘Western Leg’ – Work is due to start by late 2025 on plans to extend services through Wythenshawe Hospital, Davenport Green and into the Airport hub. This could link with tram-train services towards Stockport, Altrincham and the Mid-Cheshire line to Knutsford and Chester.

• Salford and Northwest Expansion – From summer 2026, planners will prepare a Strategic Outline Case for extending Metrolink to Salford Crescent and Salford Quays, alongside exploring routes to Leigh, Wigan and Bolton.

Further options under review include serving Middleton and the Northern Gateway, and new links to Trafford Waters, Port Salford and the Western Gateway.

Longer-Term Ambitions

TfGM is also considering potential tram-train corridors to Glossop, Hadfield, Marple and Warrington, with work continuing to safeguard routes. Early design studies are under way for underground rail connections beneath Manchester city centre, complementing the proposed Liverpool–Manchester Railway.

A tram-train “pathfinder” linking Oldham, Rochdale, Heywood and Bury remains a priority, with construction hoped to begin in 2028.

Rolling Stock Renewal

Plans are being developed to procure a new fleet of high-capacity trams to complement the existing Alstom M5000 vehicles. The next-generation vehicles would be comparable in length to two coupled M5000s and feature a continuous, walk-through interior.

Political Backing

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said the pipeline of schemes reflects a long-term commitment to connect all 10 boroughs of the city region.

“Every part of Greater Manchester must feel the benefits of growth. That means better public transport links across our communities,” Burnham said. “This investment allows us to develop cases for new tram and tram-train routes, as well as underground infrastructure, ensuring the system keeps pace with demand.”

He added: “More people are joining the Bee Network every day, but we need to plan now for continued growth. That means more tram, bus and train services to give people a real alternative to the car.”