MERSEYSIDE’S proposed tram line between Liverpool and Kirkby would be “one of the most commercially successful” schemes in Europe”, it was claimed last night.
Stephane Richone, of French transport firm Keolis, which would operate the line, said there was “no doubt that there is a compelling commercial case for this route.”
It comes as a new lobbying drive is getting under way to drum up vital support for the £430m scheme.
The Chamber of Commerce and lobby group Downtown Liverpool in Business last night threw their weight behind the scheme.
Transport minister Sadiq Khan, who visited Liverpool yesterday to announce the investment of £100m in electrifying the rail line to Manchester, said no decision had yet been made.
He said: “I can assure you that we will listen.
“We assess each plan on its merits.”
The latest flurry of activity follows the comments of Conservative shadow minister for Merseyside Chris Grayling, which appeared to cast doubt on the project.
The scheme has planning permission until February, 2010, and £70m has already been spent on it.
