Full steam ahead for Nottingham tram network
The project to build the second and third lines of Nottingham's tram network has been given the green light.
The contract has been awarded to Tramlink Nottingham to take over the operation of the existing tram line (NET Line One) and to build and operate the extended network to Clifton via Wilford and Chilwell via Beeston (NET Phase Two).
Nottingham City Council said a construction programme is now being finalised and the first phase of construction work will start in January 2012. Services on the new lines are planned to start in late 2014.
Councillor Jane Urquhart, Nottingham Council's portfolio holder for planning and transportation, said: "After ten years in planning and development, alongside the innovation of the Workplace Parking Levy - our ambitious proposals to add two more lines to our tram network will now be realised.
"This is fantastic news for Nottingham. In these constrained financial and economic times it means a significant boost to the local economy, more jobs and better public transport for thousands of people."
Transport minister Norman Baker added: "I am delighted that we are able to finally approve funding so that construction of Phase Two of the tram system can begin.
"Line One of the Nottingham tram has proved to be a great success in encouraging people onto public transport. These extensions provide the opportunity to build on that success, and give people in the south of Nottingham quicker, more convenient access to the city centre as well as providing an alternative means of accessing the city centre for people commuting by car."
This news follows the recent announcement to fund the widening of the A453, which will feed into a 1,000 space NET Park & Ride site on the edge of Clifton.
