Metrolink welcomed - but a missed opportunity?

9.36.21pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 1st Aug 2006

Speaking about the announcement on Metrolink expansion, Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Rochdale Paul Rowen said:

"I'm pleased that the Government is finally giving the go-ahead on the Metrolink extension to Rochdale. We've all been waiting a very long time, and a lot of people have worked very hard getting a result for Rochdale. It's going to be a big boost to the Borough.

"However I'm hugely disappointed that the tram isn't going come into Rochdale town centre, at least to begin with. I think this is a mistake - we're missing out on a big opportunity to get a properly integrated public transport network.

"Rochdale bus station is ½ a mile (and a big hill!) away from Rochdale Rail Station and the proposed Metrolink stop. £650m is being spent on this network, but cost cutting at last hurdle will make the tram so much less user-friendly than it might have been. It's the same in Oldham. I'm worried that this short-sighted stinginess will have a serious impact on the long-term financial viability of Metrolink.

"People only travel on public transport when it takes them from where they are to where they want to go. If journeys are made more difficult, then people just don't have the incentive to get out of their cars. I'm pleased that Metrolink is coming to Rochdale, but it must be fit for purpose.

"I shall be seeking a meeting with the Minister to discuss this matter."