Mr. Gareth R. ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what action he is taking to encourage new tram lines; and if he will make a statement. [34503]
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§ Ms KeebleTransport 2010: The 10-year plan includes as one of the Department's Public Service Agreement targets doubling light rail patronage over the decade to 2010. Our assessment is that the funding included in the plan will enable provision of up to 25 new light rail lines in major cities around the country, providing each scheme satisfies the Department's appraisal and obtains the necessary powers. The availability of such funds and the Government's positive stance towards light rail have encouraged local authorities to come forward with proposals.
My Department has already approved 11 new lines and is considering three more proposals. Several other plans for new systems or extensions to existing ones are being prepared. Light rail is also an option for at least one of the four Intermediate Mode Transit schemes which Transport for London are currently appraising.