Thanks for getting in touch about public transport provision to the Co-Op Live Arena which is due to open this April.
I'm aware of the challenges related to the venue's location and capacity and I would like to assure you that Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has been working closely with the Co-op Live Arena on plans around transport to and from the venue.
All parties are working together to limit the impact to the overall transport network. Detailed travel information will be published ahead of the venue opening with a particular focus on public transport services to and from the arena. In support of this, additional capacity has already been introduced on the tram network, with services now operating every six minutes between the city centre and Etihad Campus and additional strengthening planned during events.
I've spoken to TfGM about your suggestion of restoring rail services on the Phillips Park line to help people get to and from the area, and they've advised this isn't an option that's being considered. This is largely due to the fact that it would be difficult to justify the business case and cost involved for such a project purely from an events perspective. There is also nowhere for trains to go at either end of the line and capacity issues across central Manchester on existing infrastructure. The focus will, instead, be on enhancing other public transport, including dedicated bus services. More details will be announced by TfGM and the arena in the coming weeks.
I trust the above proves useful and thanks for taking the time to get in touch and share your feedback.
Andy Burnham
Mayor of Greater Manchester