Trams pulling in and out of Sutton took a step closer to becoming a reality after receiving overwhelming support from residents for the multimillion pound transport scheme.

Sutton and Merton councils conducted a joint survey and will now present the findings to Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, and Transport for London, ahead of a potential extension of the London Tramlink into Sutton town centre.

The hoped-for route would split from the existing Tramlink stop at Morden Road and run via Morden town centre, Rose Hill town centre, St Helier Hospital and Angel Hill to Sutton town centre terminating near Sutton station.

The survey found 84 per cent of the 9,846 respondents strongly supported or supported the plans to extend the tram to Sutton, boosting hopes the extension will beat rival bids to Crystal Palace or Bromley.

Tom Brake MP for Carshalton and Wallington said: “The results couldn’t be more convincing. Local people want the tram.

“It would provide another clean and quick way of connecting Sutton borough to neighbouring boroughs and beyond.

“Sutton doesn’t have a Tube line, so it deserves the tram.”

The high number of supporters was nearly identical in both boroughs; 83 per cent in Sutton, 84 per cent in Merton.

The proposed extension is predicted to bring major economic and social benefits to south London.

This includes creating more than 10,000 long-term jobs, improving access to education, retail and leisure facilities, transport capacity growth and a reduction in car usage.

Visitor numbers to commercial districts in the borough would also be expected to grow, Sutton Council said.

Councillor Colin Hall, deputy leader of Sutton Council, said: “The results to the consultation are very clear.

“There is a compelling case for us to extend the Tramlink into Sutton backed by the public and cross-party support at all levels.”

The results, alongside a letter of support signed by the leaders of both boroughs, their opposition counterparts, London Assembly members Steve O’Connell and Richard Tracey, as well as MPs Paul Burstow, Tom Brake, Siobhain McDonagh and Stephen Hammond have been sent to Transport for London.

The council believes investment in Tramlink infrastructure could also directly support 2,100 temporary construction jobs.

Over a 30-year appraisal period, although the impact would run beyond this, the council estimates this is equivalent to more than £76m of improved economic welfare, at 2010 prices.

Costs of the project are estimated to run to £240m.

MP for Sutton and Cheam Paul Burstow said: "There is a compelling economic case for bringing tramlink to Sutton. 

"The result of the consultation reveals huge demand for a tram service with eight out of 10 residents saying at least one member of their family would use the tram. 

"Sutton Tramlink would be good for jobs and good for growth. I hope the mayor will listen and give it the green light."