THE long-awaited £102 million refurbishment of the Bury-Altrincham Metrolink line has been given the green light.

The announcement from the Transport Minister during a visit to Manchester has been welcomed by Bury South MP Ivan Lewis who says the news is a tribute to all those who campaigned to get Metrolink back on track.

Transport Minister Derek Twigg disclosed that the package includes the renewal of existing tracks on the Bury to Altrincham line and the purchase of eight new vehicles.

He said: "It will bring noticeable improvements in the quality of journeys for existing users of Manchester's Metrolink and offer an attractive alternative to those currently driving into the centre of Manchester.

"Trams can play a role in attracting people to public transport, tackling congestion and improving accessibility. However, as we have often made clear, they must be delivered on budget."

The improvements have been given conditional approval by the Government, which has agreed to provide £58 million towards the overall estimated cost. The balance of £44 million will be met by the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE).

Mr Twigg added: "Conditional approval demonstrates our support for the improvements, and providing costs and risks remain unchanged, we would expect to grant full approval in due course."

A delighted Ivan Lewis commented: "This is a tribute to all those residents who joined me in the campaign to put Metrolink back on track. This is excellent news for Metrolink commuters and local residents who have been adversely affected due to the noise emanating from the current track.

"It's great news for the people of Radcliffe and all those who use the Metrolink in my constituency."

Chairman of Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority, Councillor Roger Jones, added: "We are absolutely delighted. This funding means we will now be able to introduce those improvements passengers have been calling for and which will ensure that Metrolink continues to provide a fast, reliable and high quality alternative to the car."

As well as the renewal of existing tracks on the line and the provision of eight new trams, the work will increase passenger capacity and boost reliability.