Council Leader Bev Craig reacts to news today that the Greater Manchester region will receive £2.5bn in new funding to create the UK’s first fully integrated, zero-emission public transport network.
The funding will also unlock proposals for a new Metrolink stop at Sandhills in Collyhurst that will support ongoing investment in the community and drive future phases of regeneration in the north Manchester neighbourhood.
Cllr Craig said:
“Today’s £2.5bn zero-emissions transport funding announcement is transformative news for Manchester and the city region. Manchester has campaigned for many years to see investment in our transport system. In a settlement that was better than we predicted and will make a real difference right across the city.
“We have already seen the success of bringing the buses under public control and this will be a much-needed boost to improve capacity for years to come.
“This investment will also help create new homes and new jobs – and it is a clear show of support from this government towards our sustainable growth agenda.
“Crucially for Manchester, this funding will help deliver the brand new Metrolink stop at Sandhills in Collyhurst and unlock the ambitious future phases of regeneration in this community that will see more than 2,500 new homes – including significant Council and social housing – and new shops alongside education and medical facilities.
“This is a major driver for the future investment in Collyhurst as part of the once-in-a-generation Victoria North regeneration programme that will deliver more than 15,000 new homes in the next decade across seven neighbourhoods, each connected by quality green space.
“But this is only one element of the ambitious plans for North Manchester. We look forward to working closely with this Government in the coming months to realise the wider potential of this part of our city through the North Manchester General Hospital programme, continued investment into our high streets and district centres, and a raft of new home building that puts North Manchester as a priority for our future growth plans.”
The first phase of development in Collyhurst is nearly complete, where 274 new homes are under construction, including 130 homes for social rent alongside a new community park.
Find out more about the regeneration of Collyhurst
Find out more about the Victoria North regeneration programme
