§ Lord Morris of Manchesterasked Her Majesty's Government:
What consultations took place between the Department for Transport and the business community and local authorities in Greater Manchester before the decision not to approve Manchester Metrolink was made; and what 164WA consultation is now intended to discuss the impact of this decision; and [HL4002]
What assessment the Department for Transport has made of the impact of their decision not to approve Manchester Metrolink on new employment opportunities, economic activity and economic competitiveness in Greater Manchester. [HL4003]
§ Lord Davies of OldhamThe department has had a number of discussions with the lead authorities throughout the development and assessment of the Metrolink extensions. As part of this process, the department considered information on the expected economic and regeneration impacts submitted by Greater Manchester passenger transport executive (GMPTE). Any discussions with other local districts and the business community will have been for GMPTE to undertake, as the promoter of the scheme. The decision to withdraw funding approval for the extensions was taken because of another significant increase in costs. Costs had almost doubled since the scheme was first approved, despite the scope having been reduced.
The department will work closely with the Greater Manchester passenger transport executive on developing alternative proposals. These will be considered on the basis of their value for money, including their wider benefits, such as employment and other economic impacts, and affordability.