Work has started on a much-anticipated business case to expand the Metrolink to Stockport.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) confirmed that the formal process of creating a business case is underway, and that it has already awarded contracts for the design, modelling and appraisal of the work.

This is expected to be finished by September 2025 ahead of further updates.

It follows a promise from Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham last week that the town's planned Metrolink expansion would move ahead in the next 12 months.

A TfGM spokesperson said: "As noted at the Bee Network Committee in July, the next strategic outline business case being looked at is Metrolink to Stockport.

"A business case is essential to justify funding what would be a significant scheme, costing in the hundreds of millions, and also to facilitate a Transport and Works Act application for statutory powers to acquire land, construct and operate.

"Following some preliminary work we are now starting the formal strategic outline business case.

"To enable this, we have competitively tendered and awarded contracts for design, modelling and appraisal and expect this work to be done by September 2025."

Stockport has long waited for a Metrolink expansion to the town, which designed its new transport interchange to be 'Metrolink ready.'

Transport bosses are looking at expanding the East Didsbury line to Stockport, which would offer the town's residents direct connections to Manchester city centre on the tram.

Stockport also has a train line to Manchester Piccadilly, as well as bus services.

The total cost of expanding the Metrolink to Stockport could be as high as £1 billion, and a business case is considered a vital step to securing funds for the work.

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