In this edition of “Trams &” we head to Manchester as we see one of the M5000s alongside a bus which was operating a Metrolink replacement service in March 2020.
On 20th March 2022 Manchester Metrolink M5000 3031 is seen approaching the camera as it works a diverted service from Altrincham to Bury. Unusually running via 2CC and Exchange Square, the usual routing is blocked due to rail replacement works in Piccadilly Gardens which had closed 1CC. The PrintWorks is behind the tram which is running along Corporation Street with the next stop being Victoria just around the corner.
Also in this image is an Alexander Dennis Enviro 400 with a registration number of LJ09 CCD. This bus was new to Abellio London (hence the red livery) but by the time this photo was taken it had been acquired by Coastliner Buses. On this day it was on the Victoria to Piccadilly Metrolink replacement bus service with its blinds set to “Tram Replacement”
Photograph by Gareth Prior, 20th March 2022