 The new tram is operating in several European cities |
Four new trams have been ordered to serve Salford Quays in time for the BBC's move into its new northern headquarters. Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) has ordered the trams for Metrolink from Canadian transport company Bombardier.
More than �19m is being invested in the Eccles line, including a short line extension to mediacity:uk.
The BBC plans to move to the Salford development in 2011.
The new model of tram is already operating in European cities including Cologne, Bonn, Rotterdam and Stockholm.
Work on the 0.4km Metrolink extension is due to start in 2009 and is expected to be completed in 2010.
 The tram network will be extended to reach the development |
David Leather, GMPTE's chief executive, said: "The four new trams will allow us to provide a new service between Cornbrook and mediacity:uk in Salford Quays.
"The Salford Quays extension to mediacity:uk is part of a major expansion of the Metrolink network."
The improvements are being funded by the North West Regional Development Agency (NWDA), Salford City Council and developers Peel Media.
Councillor John Merry, leader of Salford City Council, said: "The creation of mediacity:uk will bring incredible economic growth and employment opportunities and the right transport links will be a vital ingredient in that success."
Mediacity:uk will be the UK' s first purpose-built centre for media and creative industries, developers say.
Earlier this year, the BBC Trust approved the move of five London-based departments, those already based at BBC Manchester and the BBC Philharmonic to the Salford site.
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