1.1 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES In order to focus the investigation and form research questions which will provide conclusive findings, five objectives have been set out. These objectives will be followed and referred back to throughout the investigation in order to ensure that the aim of the research is met. The objectives are set out below:
O1
To investigate the economic benefits of building tram systems in cities. This investigation will study the impact on unemployment
rates, house prices, empty retail unit statistics, average annual earnings and change in footfall statistics.
O2
To investigate the extent of which the building of tram systems have both positively and negatively impacted the economy of
Manchester and Sheffield.
O3
To study the public perception of the Manchester and Sheffield tram service and discuss both the positive and negative opinions of
the tram services available.
O4
To investigate any failings experienced by Manchester and Sheffield's tram services and how these could potentially be
corrected in the future.
O5
To discuss the potential benefits of the implementation of tram services in other UK cities - such as Leeds. 
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