16.05.08
Aussie tram expert sets sights on Metrolink
An Australian transport expert, who oversaw the recent expansion of Melbourne’s tram network, has been hired in Greater Manchester.
Philip Purdy has made the 10,500-mile trip from Melbourne to Manchester to take up his new role as Metrolink Director at Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE).
He will oversee improvements to the existing Metrolink network, as well as the £600 million expansion to Oldham and Rochdale, Droylsden in Tameside, Chorlton in South Manchester, and Media City:UK in Salford Quays.
Philip said: “It’s a very exciting time to be joining the Metrolink team. Manchester is a world-class city and I’m looking forward to being able to provide a tram system that matches that.
“The new Metrolink extensions will nearly double the size of the network and take an extra five million car journeys off local roads every year. They will bring huge benefits to new parts of Greater Manchester and I’m delighted I’ll be helping to make them become a reality.”
David Leather, GMPTE’s Chief Executive, added: “Philip has a proven track record when it comes to overseeing tram projects and making sure they’re completed both on time and within budget.
“His vast experience is going to be a major boost to the Metrolink expansion and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
Philip has 30 years’ experience in public transport in Australia and has overseen a variety of major projects in Melbourne, including new tram extensions and interchanges, and a new tram depot.
He has left his role as Asset Development Manager at Yarra Trams to become GMPTE’s new Metrolink Director. Yarra Trams operates Melbourne’s 250km tram network – one of the largest tram systems in the world.
GMPTE is overseeing the multi-million pound expansion of Greater Manchester’s Metrolink network. Last month it selected M-Pact Thales as its preferred bidder for the contract to design, construct and maintain the new lines.
New Metrolink lines could also be built into Oldham and Rochdale town centres as well as to Ashton-under-Lyne, East Didsbury, Manchester Airport and the Trafford Centre if the bid to the government’s Transport Innovation Fund is successful.
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