A thousand new park and ride spaces are on their way to Greater Manchester.
The announcement comes after the launch of Our Network - the ambitious 10-year vision for an integrated transport system in the region.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has pledged to boost park and ride (P&R) provision across the region by the end of next year as part of efforts to make public transport more accessible while reducing congestion and improving air quality.
Chiefs are now looking into the possibility of expanding existing P&R sites and developing new facilities.
Locations in Radcliffe, Whitefield and Withington on existing Metrolink lines and adjacent to the new Trafford Park Line, are currently under review.
Mr Burnham said people often used cars for part of a journey before getting on public transport, and P&R sites were ‘critical’ in helping them switch to trams, trains and buses.
He added: “I’m regularly asked about whether or not new park and ride sites are on the way and I’m pleased to say that there are a number of locations that are currently being developed to provide park and ride facilities.
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“Work is ongoing but we are looking at 1,000 extra spaces being delivered to ensure people can access public transport as easily as possible.”
Mr Burnham said that the new P&R spaces were another indication of the steps being taken towards creating an integrated transport system for the region - alongside contactless payments on Metrolink, free bus passes for 16 to 18-year-olds and work to improve the bus network.
He continued: “But to ensure we unlock our potential and make journeys easier Greater Manchester needs more investment into its transport networks and the powers to manage it effectively and I will continue to press government until it becomes a reality.”
Work to assess potential P&R sites in more detail - including the number of spaces at each location - is now taking place with councils.
More details will be released later this year.
