Testing starts on Second City Crossing

The early hours of Thursday 1st December saw the first gauging run on Manchester Metrolink’s Second City Crossing with M5000 pair 3004 and 3021 in use to officially become the first trams to run on the section of the 2CC from St Peter’s Square.

With most of the major construction works on 2CC now completed the gauging run is the first stage in preparation for public services to begin, which is expected to be at some point in early 2017. As with all projects of this type the first gauging runs are run at slow speed to ensure that everything is as it should be before the speed is gradually increased.

Peter Cushing, Transport for Greater Manchester’s Metrolink Director, said: “This is an exciting time as we gear up to open this new line through the heart of the city early next year. After the busy festive period we’ll continue the testing and commissioning process to check all the infrastructure, and ensure drivers undertake training to familiarise themselves with the new route. As we prepare to open the line there will be changes to some local road layouts and further tram testing, so I’d urge pedestrians and all road users to be mindful and aware when travelling in the area.”

It is planned that services from East Didsbury to Rochdale Town Centre will be the first to use 2CC before eventually trams from Manchester Airport will be extended to Victoria.

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