A CONSTRUCTION boss who has built two bridges to carry tram lines has called for the expansion of the network so the bridges don't become `white elephants'.

Andy Stevenson, regional director for Balfour Beatty, was in charge of the team that built a Metrolink bridge over the River Medlock to the City of Manchester Stadium, which was supposed to open for the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

His company has also recently built a tram bridge and station at Central Park in Newton Heath, on the planned Rochdale line.

Mr Stevenson revealed his disappointment that the two bridges had no immediate prospect of carrying trams.

He said: "Two to three years ago we built the Metrolink bridge for the Commonwealth Games.

"The only thing that has crossed it since has been people going to the Commonwealth Games.

"I wish you the best of luck getting funding for the Metrolink. I want to come here in three years' and see trams crossing it."