GREATER MANCHESTER METROLINK PHASE 3

The project concerns the third phase in the development of the Greater Manchester light rapid transit system (Metrolink) to surrounding urban areas, as well as the acquisition of new light rail vehicles and other associated infrastructure. It will provide transport links between Manchester city centre and the suburban areas.

Improving the quantity and the quality of public transport within the conurbation, providing faster, more reliable and more comfortable service and solving the substantial problems of public transport access to suburban areas, thereby improving the quality of urban environment and contributing to the economic growth and development of the city region. The broad objective of the project is to reduce reliance on private cars and the negative impact of transport on the environment, thus contributing to reduce pollution and to climate change objectives.

Urban tramway projects fall under Annex II of the directive 85/337/EC and subsequent revisions under which the competent authority decides on the requirement of an EIA. According to the information provided by the Promoter, the EIAs for the proposed schemes have been carried out. A SEA of the Local Transport Plan in line with the EU directive 2001/42/EC is also available. These details along with compliance with EU Birds and Habitat Directives will be examined during the project appraisal.

The Promoter is subject to and follows EU procurement procedures (namely, Directive 2004/17/EEC) including publication in the EU Official Journal.