PROPOSALS for a new state-of-the-art Tameside Interchange have taken a major step forward after full planning permission has been granted.
The new facility will be built on the site of the current Ashton Bus Station, moving closer to the Metrolink site. The plans will make it easier for people to change between bus and Metrolink, as well as providing improved pedestrian routes from the interchange to the town centre and nearby shopping centres.
The approved plans include constructing an attractive single, covered concourse to replace the five ‘island platforms’, improving waiting areas, cycle parking and making access to travel information and tickets easier.
Tameside Council Leader Kieran Quinn said: “I, and other members of this council, are delighted that £33m of external funding is being brought in, through the Tameside Interchange, to support our existing Vision Tameside redevelopment plans.”
“Vision Tameside will bring once-in-a-generation change to Tameside and this next step in the process is an important one.”
Chair of the TfGM Committee, Andrew Fender, said: “This facility will improve links to employment, education opportunities and leisure facilities for people right across Tameside by giving passengers an easier way of switching between different modes of transport, as well as providing a far more pleasurable experience.”
Delivered by Transport for Greater Manchester, funding for the Tameside Interchange development is being supported by central government through the Greater Manchester Local Growth Deal Programme.
The plans will now enter the detailed design phase, in advance of construction work starting in winter 2016/17. The interchange is due to be open for use in late 2018.
By Nathan Salt
@NathSalt1
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