Stockport and TfGM Plans for the Future

[Xenophon PCDGS]

I think the zoning system will change with Metrolink, and any financial losses will probably be offset by increased patronage as more people view the bus+tram/train connections as a viable option, instead of defaulting to car-based travel.

How is it intended to provide the capacity for the increased tram patronage that you make reference to above, as there are times during the day when trams seem packed solid with standees, all seats having been taken.

 

[AlastairFraser]

How is it intended to provide the capacity for the increased tram patronage that you make reference to above, as there are times during the day when trams seem packed solid with standees, all seats having been taken.

I don't want to stray too far off topic, but any capacity issues can be mitigated by additional rolling stock orders if needed.

 

[Xenophon PCDGS]

I don't want to stray too far off topic, but any capacity issues can be mitigated by additional rolling stock orders if needed.

Since we are discussing the part of the thread title that states "TfGM plans for the future" (whatever that implies), I feel that we cannot be "off topic" and orders for additional rolling stock definitely falls under that reasoning.

At this moment in time, what is the current thinking on the purchase of tram-train units, which appears to form part of recent statements of Metrolink expansion. Will a third depot need to be constructed to allow for a rolling-stock increase or can the two existing depots cope?

 

[Chester1]

In relation to such a stated scenario, surely such a fare structure would have seriously detrimental implications for the annual revenue generated by the tram services, growing steadily worse when moving from tram zones 2, 3 and 4 in particular or will such a new style fare system see the end of the zoning system of the Metrolink

The London model seems the most likely option. A single bus fare and all types of rail in the same zonal system. This would likely require additional zones for the limits of the "Bee network" trains. Some of the terminus would fit into the Metrolink structure e.g. Manchester Airport Railway Station would be in zone 4 but Wigan stations would probably be in a new zone 6 or 7.

 

[AlastairFraser]

Since we are discussing the part of the thread title that states "TfGM plans for the future" (whatever that implies), I feel that we cannot be "off topic" and orders for additional rolling stock definitely falls under that reasoning.

At this moment in time, what is the current thinking on the purchase of tram-train units, which appears to form part of recent statements of Metrolink expansion. Will a third depot need to be constructed to allow for a rolling-stock increase or can the two existing depots cope?

1.) True, I just don't want to fall foul of moderation rules.
2.) Page 38 of the Draft Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2030 (accessible here) mentions development of a Metrolink "NGV" (New Generation Vehicle), which should also be suitable for use as a tram train.
I can't find any information about depots, but given there is a fair amount of heavy rail depot capacity in southern GM, perhaps TfGM could lease space in one (especially given their plans for Marple Rose Hill tram trains that would use heavy rail infrastructure in the Ashburys/Ardwick area).