Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has launched a public consultation on proposals for a new tram line, which will provide passengers with a second city centre Metrolink crossing, a vital element of the current Metrolink expansion.

TfGM has worked closely with Manchester City Council to ensure the route fits the Council's regeneration aspirations for St Peter's Square.

Manchester City Council, as planning authority, is also inviting views on related proposals to sensitively relocate the Cenotaph within St Peter's Square to provide a location better suited to quiet contemplation and with fewer space constraints for memorial events.

The proposed line will run from the Deansgate-Castlefield stop, through St Peter's Square, along Princess Street, Cross Street and Corporation Street to re-join the existing Metrolink line just outside Victoria Station.

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TfGM's Metrolink Director, Philip Purdy, said: "A second city crossing will play a vital role in helping to build a strong and prosperous economy for Manchester, providing the necessary capacity, flexibility and reliability for the future tram network to operate.

"The current Metrolink extensions and service enhancements programme mean that, by 2021, the number of people accessing Manchester city centre by tram is set to treble.

"Given how important this development is for the city, I hope as many people as possible take the time to look at the proposals for the second city crossing and let us know what they think."

Under the proposals there will be a new, larger tram stop at St Peter's Square, which is expected to be the busiest stop on the network, as well as a new stop at Exchange Square and enhancements to Metrolink facilities at Victoria Station.

Councillor Nigel Murphy, Executive Member for Environment, Manchester City Council, said: "Efficient and effective public transport which connects our communities to employment opportunities is critical to the city's economic growth.

"The second city crossing is at the heart of the £1.4 billion expansion of the Metrolink network and is fundamental to its success."

(CD/KMcA)