HOPES of a tram system coming to the conurbation have been put on hold for the time being.

A desire to deliver a light rail or tram network in Bournemouth and the surrounding area is featured in the Local Transport Plan 3, which was adopted by Bournemouth Borough Council.

The matter was raised at a meeting of the council on Tuesday September 12.

Cllr Philip Stanley-Watts asked cabinet member Cllr Mike Green, portfolio holder for transport, cleansing and waste, if a demonstration of a potential transport system would be supported.

Cllr Philip Broadhead, speaking in verbatim for Cllr Mike Green, said: “In fact the council already has within the adopted local traffic plan long term aspirations for such a system after 2026.

“The authorities will promote the future development of a rapid transit and develop proposals within the LTP3 period for a future Dorset rapid transit system operating in the south east Dorset conurbation.

"It's visualised this might run from Christchurch to Hamworthy using established train lines with on-street links in Bournemouth town centre, however in the current funding environment I think we have to be realistic.

"The set up costs would be very significant and it seems unlikely that government money would be forthcoming for such a project.

"Nevertheless, it remains an aspiration and an ambition and I hope that in future officers will look into opportunities as and when it looks like funding might become available.”