Philip Purdy, an Australian who has just overseen the expansion of the tram system in Melbourne, has been appointed as Metrolink Director at the GMPTE. Mr Purdy will oversee improvements to the existing network as well as the expansion to Oldham and Rochdale, Droylsden, Chorlton and mediacity:uk.
He has 30 years experience in public transport in Australia and has overseen a variety of major projects in Melbourne, including new tram extensions and interchanges and a new depot.
He said: “a very exciting time to be joining the Metrolink team. Manchester is a world-class city and I'm looking forward to being able to provide a tram system that matches that. The new Metrolink extensions will nearly double the size of the network and take an extra five million car journeys off local roads every year. They will bring huge benefits to new parts of Greater Manchester and I'm delighted I'll be helping to make them become a reality.”
He has left his role as Asset Development Manager at Yarra Trams who operate one of the largest tram systems in the world – Melbourne’s tram network is 250km long.
David Leather, Chief Executive for GMPTE, said: “'Philip has a proven track record when it comes to overseeing tram projects and making sure they're completed both on time and within budget. His vast experience is going to be a major boost to the Metrolink expansion and I'm looking forward to working with him.”
Source: Manchester Metrolink