A RECORD number of journeys are being made across the Metrolink network, new figures show.

Forty million journeys a year are now being taken on the Metrolink, the UK’s largest tram system, with an increase of over 4 million in the year to September, Transport for Greater Manchester have said.

The increase follows the opening of the Second City Crossing and the completion of Metrolink’s‘big bang’ expansion programme, extending the now seven lines to over 60 miles.

Do you use the Metrolink? What do you think of the service? Leave your comments below 

“Since the new line through the city centre opened in February the number of people using Metrolink has shot up,” said TfGM Head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughn. “It’s no coincidence that we’ve seen continued growth in line with our investment in the network.

“We now run more trams to more places, connecting more people than ever before with jobs, training, retail and leisure opportunities.

“The quality of service on offer has also played a key role in this success with the latest passenger satisfaction survey showing that 90% of our customers are happy with their journeys.”

“I’m in no doubt that the number of people who use the network will continue to rise as we continue to improve and the network grows even further.”

Also announced last week fare changes will come into effect from January 1 2018, including half price off-peak and weekend travel for 16-18 year olds. The announcements and figures were welcomed by Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of the TfGM committee.

He said: “Hitting 40 million passenger journeys is a fantastic achievement and underpins our ongoing commitment to running more services through more communities to get even more people onto public transport.

“Without a doubt this year has been one of the best and most exciting in Metrolink’s 25 year history. We saw a new line open through the heart of the city centre, celebrated the network’s Silver Jubilee, appointed a new operator and started work on the Trafford Park Line.”

Further improvements to the system, including new job opportunities and increased security, have been promised, as responsibility for operating and maintaining the network was taken over by KeolisAmey Metrolink in July.

“With the new operator on board for the next ten years, work under way to expand even further and cheaper fares for young people due to be introduced in the new year, Metrolink is set to continue reporting further record breaking increases in ridership,” Councillor Fender said.