Metrolink extension to Stockport plans agreed by TfGM

Metrolink extension to Stockport is moving ahead, with Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and Stockport Council now working together on detailed proposals for one of the region’s flagship public transport schemes, as confirmed by Transport for Greater Manchester.

The partners plan to submit the first stage of a business case in 2026 as part of Greater Manchester’s wider transport strategy.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Core Metrolink extension to Stockport via East Didsbury

At the core of the TfGM Stockport Metrolink extension plans is the idea of taking the existing Metrolink line, which today stops at East Didsbury, and continuing it through to Stockport.

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This “core” scheme is framed as part of a broader push to strengthen the Greater Manchester Bee Network Metrolink expansion, with both organisations also reviewing other possible routes and service patterns that could further reinforce connectivity across the city region.

Tram-train options via Denton and Stockport Town Centre

In parallel with the core line, TfGM is examining how the largely under utilised railway corridor that passes through Denton could support a new Denton tram-train Metrolink route. The concept, as also highlighted by Railway Supply, is to introduce tram-train services capable of running between Ashton and Manchester Airport via Stockport Town Centre.

Within the wider Metrolink tram-train plans via Denton and Stockport Town Centre, this alignment would connect a series of communities to the tram network by using existing heavy rail infrastructure adapted for tram-train operation.

Political support for Bee Network and local growth

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham presents the initiative as part of “a bold plan” to deliver a decade of good growth for Greater Manchester, intended to benefit every part of the city region. He underlines that developing the Bee Network and improving bus, tram and train connections will be fundamental to that growth story, a focus also reflected in coverage by Railway Gazette.

Burnham notes that Denton has for too long been overlooked and argues that working up a tram-train option to connect Denton and the wider area to the Metrolink network is a big step toward unlocking opportunities for local residents and businesses. He reiterates that the city-region is committed to extending Metrolink to Stockport and beyond, aiming to link all districts to the tram network and deliver a truly integrated transport network for everyone.

Campaigns for better links in Gorton and Denton

Andy Gwynne, MP for Gorton & Denton, stresses that he has spent years campaigning with local residents for improved transport links to Denton and across his constituency. He says he is pleased that, as part of the Metrolink extension plans, TfGM is now looking seriously at using the existing rail line as an option for tram-train services.

For Gwynne, improved connectivity is central to opening up opportunities for people and communities and to supporting growth ambitions across the city region. He adds that bringing this line into the Metrolink extension to Stockport could be transformative for Denton, enhancing local connections and supporting growth across the wider area.

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