MP's salute as TfGM act on Freehold Metrolink stop concerns

Date published: 11 June 2018


Oldham West and Royton MP Jim McMahon has saluted Transport for Greater Manchester chiefs after they took positive action when urged to address the problem of anti-social behaviour at, and close to, the Freehold Metrolink stop in Chadderton.

The issue of anti-social behaviour surrounding the Freehold stop has provided headaches for local residents and the authorities since the line’s opening in 2012.

Earlier this year three teenagers were charged with attempted murder in connection with an incident at the stop which left a 49-year old man with serious injuries.

Since elected to Parliament in 2015, Mr McMahon has been liaising with Transport for Greater Manchester, local councillors and residents to reach a solution to this issue.

Measures have been put in place such as CCTV and higher fencing to protect the homes of nearby residents, who are unable to enjoy their gardens as youngsters throw ballast’s from the tramline and glass bottles over the fence - clearly a huge risk to their safety.

Despite the best intent, the current measures have done little to address the issue.

To that end, Mr McMahon facilitated a meeting with both TfGM and the local residents to discuss further security measures.

TfGM have been helpful throughout the process and have agreed to install mesh across the tram line to prevent youngsters from accessing the ballast.

Mr McMahon said: “It’s a great result for the local area and for people using the Metrolink.

"I am glad that Transport for Greater Manchester have looked into this matter and are taking it seriously.

“The residents seem very happy with this approach and we look forward to TfGM providing us with dates and a programme of when the installation works will be carried out.

“I’d like to thank TfGM for meeting with me, as well thanking local councillors and residents who have worked hard on resolving this issue.”