Green light to extend tram system

It is hoped construction work for the expansion will start in 2011

The next step in Nottingham getting an extension to its tram network has been given government approval.

The legal powers for Nottingham Express Transit (NET) to start compulsory purchases have been granted.

The decision gives the go-ahead for two new routes to the city's tram system, from Clifton via Wilford and from Chilwell via Beeston.

The project will cost over £400m to complete, of which 75% will be funded by the government.

The remainder of the cost will have to be met by the city and county councils - the city council will need to provide £80m leaving the the county council with a £20m bill.

The city council said it proposed to generate the funding from the introduction of a workplace parking levy.

'Complex' project

The new 10km Chilwell via Beeston route will serve the Meadows, the ng2 development site, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Science Park, Beeston town centre and Chilwell before terminating at a park-and-ride site near the A52, close to junction 25 of the M1.

The 7.5km Clifton route will serve the Meadows, Wilford/Ruddington Lane and the Clifton Estate before terminating at a park-and-ride site near the A453, close to junction 24 of the M1.

Councillor Jane Urquhart, Nottingham City Council's portfolio holder for transport and area working, said: "By building on the success of the existing tram system we are demonstrating that, even in a tough financial climate, we are not afraid to take bold steps to ensure that Nottingham continues to grow and prosper.

"NET Phase Two will attract more businesses to Nottingham, create jobs and give residents better access to public transport.

"We hope that a decision on the funding streams is made soon so that we can progress with our plans.

"Even so, the delivery of such a major project is complex but we hope that work can start on the ground in a couple of years to ensure we get the benefits as soon as possible."

It is estimated the NET system will take a further two million car journeys off the roads each year.

It is hoped construction could begin in 2011 with the extended system operational from 2014.