Initial tests on the Rochdale town centre extension of Manchester Metrolink have started ahead of the line opening in early 2014. These tests are in connection with the recent installation of the overhead wires and are not a sign that the line is due to open imminently.
The first tram was due to run on the section of line from Rochdale Railway Station on Monday 15 July with further tests on Tuesday 16 and Wednesday 17 July and then over the weekend of Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 July. All tests were due to take place between midnight and 0700 so as to cause the least amount of disruption as possible.
Peter Cushing, TfGM’s Metrolink Director, said: “We’re making good progress with the new Metrolink extension though Rochdale town centre. All the overhead line equipment is now installed, and these tests are just the first stage in what will be an extensive testing and commissioning process to make sure the physical infrastructure and the new tram management system is ready for passenger services next year. As always, we are writing to all local residents and businesses to let them know the progress we are making and what to expect in the coming months.”
The line through Rochdale town centre is expected to open in early 2014 along with the Oldham town centre extension with construction work continuing apace on both extensions. They will, however, not be the next line to open on Metrolink as that honour is likely to be the East Manchester line between Droylsden and Ashton-under-Lyne.
The successful test run took place as planned overnight on 20th/21st July. The tests which started on the 15th were not planned to use trams as they were for electrical testing leading up to Sunday morning’s run.
Pictures in today’s Rochdale Observer of 3070 turning the corner at the bottom of Drake Street