Labour should get Supertram extensions 'back on track'

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 24th Sep 2007

Lib Dems are calling for proposed Supertram extensions to get back on track

Sheffield's Labour Council is set to approve proposed routes for a new 'bus rapid transit system' after the bid to extend Supertram was turned down by the Government earlier in the year. However, although local Lib Dems support exploring new public transport routes to additional destinations, they believe that Supertram extensions are also needed and should be supported by Labour.

Cllr Sylvia Dunkley, Liberal Democrat Shadow Cabinet member for Transport, said: -

"We have serious questions over the 'Bus Rapid Transit' system proposed. There is little evidence it will get people out of their cars and in places it duplicates a service already offered by Supertram, such as the proposed route to Meadowhall from the city centre. We believe that local people would rather investment was used to extend the already popular Supertram system. Why should we introduce a completely new untested system when we already have one that works?"

"Given that the entire 'Bus Rapid Transit' system proposed would actually cost more than extending Supertram, we think that there is a serious case to go back to Government and demand that we receive backing for the original proposal to extend Supertram. The bid had the backing of Sheffield and the wider region, it was only the Government officials who turned us down."

"Under the proposed scheme the Southern route to Waverley is the only one which offers something new and should be looked at. However whilst we support developing new public transport links to Waverley, it needs to be recognised that the popular Supertram system should also be extended. If this Labour Government really wants to support Sheffield's development then it should allow us to get the Supertram extension bid back on track."