METROLINK users and cyclists will be given their say on whether bikes should be allowed on trams.

Greater Manchester transport chiefs have decided to go out to public consultation on this issue.

Members of Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority (GMPTA) have agreed to the widespread circulation of a consultation paper asking the public for their opinions and suggestions on "Transporting Cycles by Tram."

Councillor Roger Jones, chairman of the Authority, explained: "At present, cyclists are not allowed to take their bikes on trams, both due to overcrowding in the peak periods and also because the trams would require significant modification to allow them to accommodate bikes safely.

"Metrolink is not alone in this regard. No tram systems in Europe currently allows the carriage of cycles." He added: "However, as an Authority, we are always keen to explore opportunities for improved integration between the tram and other modes of transport.

"The contract for the development of the third phase of Metrolink to Oldham and Rochdale, Ashton-under-Lyne and Manchester Airport, which will also include the operation of the Bury-Altrincham and Eccles lines, offers us an opportunity to consider whether to allow this policy in principle."

Coun Jones said the Authority wanted to consult as widely as possible on the issue.

He went on: "The public input will not only be valuable in helping us to establish the demand for taking bikes on trams but, hopefully, we will also receive some useful feedback on how Metrolink users and cyclists would address the practicalities of taking bikes on trams, which the light rail industry has not yet resolved.

"This includes discussions over where bikes could be stored and whether it would be feasible to allow bikes on trams at all times, as these are some of the real issues that need to be tackled."

Consultation papers will be widely distributed and the consultation itself will take place for six weeks between the end of January until mid-March.

A number of conditions have already been included in the contract for Metrolink phase three to ensure that cycle users' interests are taken fully into account.

These include a requirement for the new concessionaire to provide cycle stands for at least 10 bikes at each of the new Metrolink stops as well as lockers for a minimum of five bikes, along with security provision for the cycle parking area.

The outcome will be reported to a meeting of the Authority, so as to enable members to finalise their views on the matter.