Views wanted on Salford tram plan

The tram network will be extended to reach the development

Residents and businesses are being consulted on proposals to get trams running to the BBC's planned new northern headquarters in Salford.

More than £19m is being invested in a short line extension to the Eccles route so it will reach mediacity:uk.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) is holding a two-day consultation event at the Lowry Centre next week.

About 3,000 questionnaires have also been sent out.

Work on the quarter of a mile (0.4km) extension to the line is due to start next year, and four new trams have been ordered to double the frequency of daytime services into Salford Quays.

Transport bosses are consulting on the proposals ahead of submitting an application to the government for a Transport and Works Act order, which will enable the plan to go ahead.

'Major expansion'

David Leather, GMPTE's chief executive, said: "The Metrolink extension to mediacity:uk is part of a major expansion of the network, which will also include new lines to Oldham and Rochdale, Chorlton in South Manchester, and Droylsden in Tameside.

"The Salford Quays extension will start near the Harbour City stop on the Eccles line and end at a new tram stop in mediacity:uk."

GMPTE staff will be at The Lowry from 1100 GMT to 1900 GMT on Tuesday and Wednesday next week.

The improvements are being funded by the North West Regional Development Agency (NWDA), Salford City Council and developers Peel Media.

The work on the line is expected to be finished in 2010 - a year before mediacity:uk's estimated completion.