Metrolink extension ‘crucial’ part of plans for Salford Community Stadium as well as Red Devils and Sharks

Extending the Metrolink to Salford Community Stadium is a “crucial” part of the council’s plans for the future of the area.

Salford council is in the process of buying the stadium outright in a move which is expected to see land around the ground sold for development. Salford Community Stadium is the home of the Salford Red Devils and Sale Sharks rugby clubs.

Rugby fans can currently take the tram to the Trafford Centre which is a 20-minute walk away from the stadium, or travel on the 100 or 67 bus routes which stop a short distance from the ground. The council is calling for an extension to the tram network so fans and visitors can travel directly to the stadium.

Councillor Mike McCusker, lead member for planning, transport and sustainable development at Salford City Council, said extending the Metrolink is key for widening access to sport for residents around Greater Manchester. He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “We’re looking forward to improving connectivity to the Salford Community Stadium as part of the vision for the future, starting with the transition of the 67 and 100 bus routes to the Bee Network on March 24.

“We will also review public transport travel experiences, including designated drop-off points to improve the match-day experiences and travel options. We have already highlighted to Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) the importance of a short extension of the Trafford Centre Metrolink line to reach the City of Salford’s Community Stadium and Port Salford.

“This crucial extension of our Metrolink network will be critical in connecting improvements in our public transport infrastructure with Greater Manchester’s residents, families, children’s and young people’s ability to access employment opportunities and our sporting, cultural and event spaces within the city-region. And we are working with the clubs, including Sale Sharks, and Salford Red Devils who know their fans well, to deliver our commitment to enhancing public transport services for residents.

“I look forward to working with Mayor Burnham, TfGM and GMCA colleagues to deliver this important piece of Metrolink extension for residents in Salford and Greater Manchester.”

Salford Red Devils and Sale Sharks both backed calls for a Metrolink extension to the stadium. The Red Devils were recently given a £315,000 payment from the council in ‘immediate’ financial support while the stadium deal is being discussed.

A spokesperson from the rugby league club said: “As it stands, we are almost that one step too far for some potential attendees. The ability to jump on singular transport is a significant contributor to our ability to experience growth on matchdays and when holding other events.

“Whilst we attempt to bridge that gap with matchday shuttle buses from the Trafford Centre, that connectivity with the Metrolink system would vastly improve the journey for visitors all year round, as well as improving travel options for local residents.

“We are acutely aware of visitors’ feedback in relation to heavy traffic upon leaving the site on matchdays dampening their experience; and whilst we don’t control the matchday parking operations, we support all efforts that address this and work towards ensuring every visit to the Salford Community Stadium is enjoyable.”

Sale Sharks CEO Paul Smith said: “Improving the matchday experience for our supporters is a huge focus for everyone at the club and in recent years we’ve introduced a number of measures – such as park and ride schemes and supporter shuttle buses – that have greatly enhanced access to the Salford Community Stadium. We would welcome anything that will further improve the transport infrastructure around the stadium.”

Transport for Greater Manchester was contacted for comment.