POLITICIANS are being urged to back a tram system for the borough to 'secure Warrington's position as a central hub and future proof its transport links'.

Light Rail UK, which is based at Warrington Business Park, on Long Lane, provides consultancy to the Government and local authorities to enhance their awareness of the advantages of light rail and tram networks.

And it believes the introduction of such a system in Warrington would tackle a range of issues, including poor air quality.

Managing director James Harkins said: "Light Rail believes Warrington's congestion and serious transport air pollution can best be tackled by provision of high quality public transport.

"There is an opportunity coming in the proposed rebalancing of the north-south economy.

"This can be provided by rail as part of the 'Rail North' proposals and must include light rail and tramways, each mode providing optimal service for varying traffic flows.

"The essential requirement is full integration of modes, in terms of interchange and through ticketing, allowing seamless journeys into and within Warrington.

"Trams and light rail should form an essential component of our public transport provision, especially connections in the east with Manchester Metrolink.

"We need our local politicians to be more proactive to secure Warrington's position as a central hub and future proof our transport links.

"Trams are an efficient way of moving large numbers of people in towns and cities from 150,000 citizens upwards and they can cope with 2,000 to 18,000 passengers per hour.

"They have a proven record in attracting people out of cars – the rate of modal transfer from car to tram at peak times is typically around 20 per cent.

"This compares with estimates of between four per cent and 6.5 per cent for quality bus investment.

"Levels of traffic reduction from trams are typically around six times greater than with bus schemes.

"Reductions of road traffic of up to 14 per cent after introduction of tram schemes have been recorded.

"A tramway will improve Warrington's image and assists urban regeneration. Shiny rails instil confidence.

"As part of an integrated public transport system, tramways can attract motorists out of their cars and thus reduce the number of vehicles in the city centre, particularly in conjunction with park and ride provision."

Warrington South MP David Mowat has taken note of Light Rail UK's views.

He said: "Light Rail UK's proposal is an interesting one and worthy of further consideration.

"Given the steady reductions in bus services, particularly south of the Ship Canal, there may be an opening for an efficient and reliable mass transport system in the town.

"While I think it is a good idea in principle, I would need to see more detailed, costed, plans before I could commit my support.

"My more immediate priority is to secure funding for a new station in west Warrington."