Metrolink could be shut down unless the government provides extra funding within ‘days rather than weeks’, Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has warned.
Passenger numbers have plummeted since the coronavirus lockdown, with monthly income dropping from £6 million to ‘well below £1 million’.
Regional leaders are considering ‘mothballing’ the network until it receives a government bail out similar to what has been offered to rail and bus operators.
Mr Burnham admitted that the move would make it difficult for NHS and social care staff, who were given free travel on the Metrolink earlier this month.