Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has announced prospective plans to turn an underused rail line running through Denton into a new extension that would bring trams to Stockport.
Now actively under consideration; plans include a ‘core’ extension from the existing Metrolink stop at East Didsbury to Stockport town centre, as well as the introduction of tram-train technology that would run beyond Stockport town centre along the Denton rail line.
If approved, the line would connect the area into the wider Metrolink network including links to Tameside and Manchester Airport.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said:We’ve a bold plan to deliver a decade of good growth for Greater Manchester, one that benefits every part of the city region. Developing the Bee Network and delivering better bus, tram and train connections will be fundamental to our growth story.
For too long, Denton has been overlooked and by working up the tram-train option to connect Denton and the wider area to the Metrolink is a big step toward unlocking opportunities for local residents and businesses.
We’re committed to extending Metrolink to Stockport and beyond as part of our efforts to connect all our districts to the tram network and delivering a truly integrated transport network for everyone.
Thus far, progress has already been made on the first stage of the Stockport Metrolink extension business case, with TfGM now working to complete all required technical work ahead of submission to the Department for Transport in early 2026.
Construction on the ‘core’ element of the project could begin by the end of the decade, if approvals and funding are acquired.
