A Metrolink line to Stockport has officially been confirmed.

Construction will begin on a new line connecting Stockport to Manchester city centre and beyond

It's part of a £2.5bn investment in Greater Manchester from central government.

As well as the new Stockport Metrolink, this investment will also pay for 1,000 new electric buses, as well as other transport interchanges and new tram stops across Greater Manchester.

It comes after a lengthy campaign from Stockport Council to bring trams to the borough.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said it means that his transport plans can now be delivered at an 'unrelenting pace'.

As well as new trams, the £2.5bn investment will also pay for 1,000 new electric buses (Image - Nub News)

As well as new buses and trams, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has already outlined plans to bring eight new rail lines into the Bee Network by 2028, parts of which will run through stations in Stockport borough. 

By 2028, these lines will have upgraded trains, integrated fares, and a minimum of two services per hour. 

The general aim is to have a fully-integrated 'Bee Network' public travel system, incorporating buses, trams and trains. 

Cllr Mark Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council, said: "We're absolutely delighted that the government has backed funding to bring Metrolink to Stockport — this is a huge moment for our borough and for Greater Manchester. 

"Stockport is the fastest-growing town in Greater Manchester, and today's decision sends a powerful signal that investment is following ambition. We've already delivered the award-winning, Metrolink-ready Stockport Interchange and the UK's largest town centre regeneration — now, we're ready to roll up our sleeves and get on site to deliver Metrolink. 

"And this isn't just a win for Stockport. It's a major step towards delivering the UK's first fully integrated, zero-emission public transport system across the whole of Greater Manchester — and Stockport is proud to be right at the heart of it."

Cllr Baynham, Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transport Services, said: "We've got a strong track record of working with Transport for Greater Manchester, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, our business community and national partners to turn big ideas into real results — and this one's no different. 

"Next Stop Stockport will be transformational for Stockport's economy and our communities, but also for Greater Manchester's communities too. 

"This investment is significant to scale up our success and sends a clear signal that Stockport's time is now."

Andy Burnham said: "This is a game-changing moment that will underpin Greater Manchester's green growth for years to come. Building on our strong track record, we can now move at pace to deliver the next phase of the Bee Network – creating the UK's first fully electric, zero emission integrated public transport system by 2030.

"With a pipeline of major transport projects better connecting our towns and cities, and local rail lines brought into the Bee Network, our communities will be the first outside London to be served by fully joined-up bike, bus, tram and train travel.

 "Greater Manchester has had a decade of growth faster than the UK average. This funding - together with our devolved decision-making powers - can be the key to unlocking even more growth in the decade to come."

Tom Morrison, MP for Cheadle, said: "Bringing Metrolink to Stockport is a huge opportunity – but it must go further. A route through Cheadle would connect thousands of residents, boost our high streets, and help make the new Cheadle station the transport hub our community needs. This funding is welcome – but it must deliver for the whole borough.

"For too long, Cheadle has been left behind when it comes to public transport. The Government's commitment to extending Metrolink is a big step forward – now we need to make sure the route works for local people. I have written to Mayor Burnham to make the case for Cheadle and will keep fighting to make sure we get the connections we deserve."

Peter Crossen, Conservative councillor for Bramhall South and Woodford, pointed out that although the Metrolink news was a positive thing for many, some other areas of the borough were being 'left behind'. 

"While the Metrolink project will take years to complete, the lack of adequate public transport in areas such as Bramhall, Cheadle Hulme and Woodford is a pressing issue that affects residents now", Cllr Crossen said.

"It is difficult to understand why yet another link from central Stockport to Manchester has been prioritised, while major suburban areas remain undeserved."