The funding will support major service improvements on the Eccles to Manchester City Centre line between the network hub station at Cornbrook and the Quays stations, enabling a 6 minute service in peak hours which matches some of the city centre Metrolink section.

Cornbrook Station is becoming an increasingly important station on the network. It connects the existing Altrincham to Bury line with the Eccles to Manchester City Centre line. Cornbrook is also an interchange point for the proposed future extensions of the network, including the new line to Manchester Airport.

Leader of Salford City Council, Cllr John Merry said: "This is excellent news for Salford and demonstrates our commitment to continual investment in the area. This improvement to the Metrolink service will not only enhance our connectivity with Manchester, but will pave the way for the incredible economic growth and employment opportunities that the creation of mediacity:uk will bring."

The Metrolink improvements will be delivered by GMPTE, through an agreement with Salford City Council on behalf of Central Salford URC. The Agency funding is part of a wider package of works totalling around £19m. The Metrolink service improvements to the Quays will be completed in 2010.