The second stage of the project to upgrade the tram track in Manchester City Centre is currently being planned and is being done so to put passengers’ needs first. The GMPTE is managing the project which will see all the City Centre track replaced to enable smoother and quieter journeys for all.
The track between Piccadilly Station and Portland Street was refurbished over an eight week period late in 2008. This was completed on time and on budget.
Philip Purdy, GMPTE’s Metrolink Director, told a meeting of the GMPTA: “We're now finalising the programme for the next phase of track replacement work in the city centre, and putting passengers' needs first has been central to the planning. We're working with the operator, Stagecoach Metrolink, to look at ways we can keep as much of the city centre tram network open as possible while the track is replaced in several phases. We won't be starting work in earnest until early April and there will be a major information campaign soon to let passengers know exactly what's happening. In the meantime, I assure passengers that we are working hard to cause as little disruption as possible while we carry out these essential works."
Preparation work is due to commence in March throughout the City Centre. This will be done mainly at night to provide as little disruption as possible.
Cllr Matt Colledge, Chairman of the GMPTA, said: “I'm confident GMPTE is doing everything it can to plan these track upgrades in a considerate way. The new section of city centre track that was installed last year has made an immediate difference. Tram journeys along this section are smoother and quieter, and the Piccadilly stop is looking much brighter and more welcoming since its refurbishment. We appreciate that these are essential improvements, not least to get ready for the four new services running through the city centre when the new Metrolink lines open."
Source: GMPTE