Manchester's £165m cross-city tram link has taken a step closer after the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) formally agreed work can begin.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is proposing a new Metrolink route through Manchester city centre.  The route will run from the Deansgate Castlefield stop, through St Peter's Square, along Princess Street, Cross Street and Corporation Street, re-joining the existing Metrolink link just outside Victoria Station. 

The Second City Crossing (2CC) will play a vital role in providing the necessary capacity, flexibility and reliability for the future tram network to operate and will also improve access by Metrolink into the heart of the city, connecting both the new lines and people across Greater Manchester. 

The Secretary of State for Transport has now determined the Transport and Works Act Order for Second City Crossing and the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government has granted the associated Listed Building Consents for the scheme.  TfGM are now able to further develop the details and progress with appointing the contractor for the main construction.

Work is intended to start on the new tram platforms for St Peter's Square in 2015, with the full scheme finished by the start of 2017.

For additional information about the Second City Crossing, please visit the website, contact a member of TfGM's Future Metrolink team on 0161 244 1555 or e-mail future.metrolink@tfgm.com.

Pictured: An artist's impression of the Second City Crossing through St Peter's Square.