METROLINK trams could run to Knutsford if the borough council’s transport plans are turned into reality.

Like other parts of the network, the trams would run on the mid Cheshire railway line between Altrincham and the town.

And the authority is now running a feasibility study as part of its local transport plan.

Cheshire East Council has worked with its partners to draw up a comprehensive local transport plan strategy.

John Oates, chairman of the Mid Cheshire Rail Users Association, said the plans for the Metrolink would make a lot of sense.

“The tram train has been going on in Germany for 30 years and they do it in this country in the north east from Newcastle to Sunderland,” he said.

“It would be a very good way of getting the service to the same frequency that it was before the Metrolink arrived.”

Clr Jamie Macrae, cabinet member with responsibility for prosperity, said: “Transport and travel is a fundamental part of everyday life and supports a vibrant economy.

“The local transport plan aims to build on the strengths of the existing transport system in Cheshire East, including our good transport links to major centres via the motorway and rail network and the international gateway at Manchester Airport, and set out a strategy and proposals to improve it further to foster our ambitious plans for economic growth and protect our environment to ensure a sustainable future for all our residents and businesses.

“Our travel patterns are heavily reliant on the car for most people, which means we have to improve alternative options for travel to make these more attractive, including public transport networks.

“The LTP will shape future investment in our highways and public transport network over the next 15 years, so we would welcome your comments on the implementation of the identified strategies and priorities for Cheshire East.”

The council held an extended six-week public consultation via a questionnaire last autumn to seek the public’s views on what the future transport priorities should be for the next 15 years.

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The policy initiatives include:

- Working with the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities to carry out feasibility studies of tram-train opportunities in the north of the borough, including park-and-ride sites for the city centre;

- Preparing bids for funding to support the improved integration of different modes of transport, including public transport, road, walking and cycling;

- Supporting proposals for high-speed rail links and improved rail services in Cheshire East;

- Working with strategic partners, via the local enterprise partnership, to secure transport improvements to boost economic growth across the borough.