A series of special information events are to be held in February to help people to find out more about the project to extend the Manchester Metrolink system to Droylsden. The exhibitions are being held jointly by the GMPTE and MPact-Thales throughout East Manchester and Droylsden.
Philip Purdy, GMPTE’s Metrolink Director, said: “People will really start to see work taking place on the ground this year to build the new Metrolink line. Work to move existing utilities - such as gas, water, electricity and phone lines - away from the route will start soon and take place throughout the year. Clearance work and demolitions will also take place over the next few months, before the main construction work starts. We are committed to keeping in touch with local residents and businesses while the new Metrolink line is being built and these information events will be the first of many. I hope people take the opportunity to come along and find out more about the plans."
GMPTE and MPact-Thales will be holding exhibitions as follows:
* Monday 9th and Wednesday 11th February 1800-2000 – St Anne’s R.C. Primary School, Carruthers Street
* Tuesday 10th February 1800-2000 – St Mary’s C.E. Primary School, Church Street, Droylsden
Further events will also take place with the Metrolink team:
* Tuesday 17th February 1100-1600 and Thursday 19th February (1600-2000) – Droylsden Library
* Wednesday 25th February 1800-2000 – St Anne’s R.C. Primary School, Carruthers Street
The first utility diversion work is due to be started in Droylsden town centre on 9th February at the junction of Market Street and Villemomble Square when BT telecommunications equipment is due to be moved. Several road closures and diversions will be in place along the route of the line during both the utility diversion and track construction work.
A new works compound is also being created in an industrial area of East Manchester, on Pollard Street near the junction with Greater Ancoats Street. This will house site offices and materials for the expansion (such as track). The compound should be operation by the spring.
It is planned that trams will start running to Droylsden in spring 2012, with a service frequency to central Manchester of every 6 minutes.
Source: GMPTE