Sutton Council has welcomed the announcement that Transport for London is starting a feasibility study into a Tramlink route to Sutton Town Centre.

The decision, announced earlier this month following lobbying from councillors is expected to bring huge economic and regeneration benefits to the borough, if it get the go-ahead.

Councillor Jill Whitehead, chairwoman of Sutton's environment and neighbourhoods committee, said: "We are delighted that we have persuaded TfL to undertake a feasibility study and we will continue to make Sutton's case throughout the process.

"The tram would bring untold social and economic benefits to the borough and we want to work with TfL to convince them that Tramlink should come to Sutton."

The study will look at extending the existing network from Wimbledon to Sutton town centre running via Morden town centre, Rose Hill town centre and St Helier Hospital.

The route would tie the extension in to proposed new developments in the borough at St Helier Hospital, the Gas Holders and Zurich House sites in north Sutton as well as the South Point site, which is now known as Sutton Point.

The study, which will consider many factors including possible locations for tram stops and a broad estimate of the cost, could be finished early next year.

It would also improve links between Sutton and other south London town centres and residential and business areas as well as making a strong case for a an environmentally attractive alternative to cars.