THE shelved plans to extend the Metrolink tram network -- and boost Bolton's own transport network -- could be revived if the fears of the project's private partners can be overcome.

That is the view of two Bolton MPs following crisis talks with transport minister Alistair Darling.

Brian Iddon, MP for Bolton South-east, is convinced the Government and the region's transport bosses could still come to an agreement to get the scheme back on track.

Proposals to extend the Metrolink to Ashton, Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale and Manchester Airport were dropped earlier this year after the £500 million cost soared to £1 billion.

But Dr Iddon believes that the figures could be forced down if the concerns of the Government's private-sector partners about their return from the scheme could be addressed.

He claims that if companies signing up to the Private Finance Initiative had more confidence in their returns, they would reduce their charges to the Government.

Dr Iddon said: "The risk in this scheme is all with the private sector and if we can find a way of addressing the balance then the door is still open. I am confident that we can find a solution."

He also dismissed rumours that the minister was demanding the introduction of congestion charges as a prerequisite to the expansion of the existing light rail network.

The revival of the scheme would also be likely to reactivate £18 million worth of transport funding in Bolton.

Council bosses saw compensation for the borough's non-inclusion in the tram scheme disappear when ministers pulled the plug.

Without it, major schemes such as a new bus and rail interchange and the transformation of Churchgate into an arts and festival quarter might never see the light of day.

Bolton North-east MP, David Crausby, was also part of the delegation of 18 North-west MPs which will meet Prime Minister Tony Blair next week in a bid to convince him of the need to reinstate phase three of the expansion.

He said: "We did not mince our words and I was genuinely surprised that the transport minister was open to taking the scheme forward."