Tram stop plans on show

OLDHAMERS can find out more about plans for the temporary Oldham Mumps Metrolink stop an an information event on Monday.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) will hold the event at Oldham Library and Lifelong Learning Centre, Greaves Street, from 5 to 7pm.

As part of the work to convert the former Oldham loop rail line to Metrolink, GMPTE is submitting a planning application for a temporary Metrolink stop close to the site of the former Mumps railway station.

The temporary stop will remain in place until a permanent stop is built on Union Street as part of the future Metrolink extension through Oldham town centre.

The temporary stop will then be removed.

Work is under way across the borough in preparation for the new Metrolink line from Manchester Victoria to Rochdale via Oldham.

Trams are expected to begin running to Oldham Mumps in autumn 2011, and to Rochdale in spring 2012.

Philip Purdy, GMPTE’s Metrolink director, said: “We are committed to keeping in touch with residents and businesses while construction on the new Oldham and Rochdale route is ongoing.

“Public information events such as this are a vital part of that commitment.

“I would encourage people to come along to the event, where they can view the plans and speak to team members on a one-to-one basis to discuss the scheme and ask any questions they may have.”

Anyone who is unable to attend the event and would like to find out more about the proposals, can call the Metrolink public liaison team on 0161-244 1555 (open during office hours) or email future.metrolink@gmpte.gov.uk