The adidas Manchester Marathon will be taking place on Sunday 14th April and with around 32,000 runners set to take part as well as thousands more watching the race, residents are being advised to plan their journey in advance and to use public transport where possible to reduce congestion. To help move the crowds there will be extra trams running on Metrolink’s Altrincham line as well as additional doubles in action across the network.
The route of the marathon starts below the Trafford Arch and then heads into the city centre before passing through Sale, Altrincham, Timperley, Chorlton and Hume. The race then ends close to Emirates Old Trafford and UA92.
There will be a number of road closures in place which means that people are being advised to travel on tram to move around the area. There will be a seven and a half minute frequency on the Altrincham line (double the usual Sunday service) and there will also be more double trams and increased capacity on the network. Despite this enhanced service it is still expected to be busy and for anyone who can be flexible they are advised to travel after 1600 when it is expected to be quieter.
Fran Wilkinson, Customer and Growth Director at TfGM, said: “The Manchester Marathon is always a fantastic occasion. We wish everyone taking part the best of luck and are looking forward to helping runners and spectators get to and from the event as smoothly as possible.
“It’s sure to be a busy day and we’d encourage anyone travelling on Sunday – whether their trip is for the marathon or other reasons – to please check our dedicated webpage for how your journey may be impacted by road closures, bus diversions and busy periods.
“To avoid congestion and for a more enjoyable trip, consider jumping on the tram and using a contactless payment for a fast and efficient way to travel. Park and Ride sites also provide a free place to park before completing your journey on the tram to the race.”
“If you are coming as a spectator, why not avoid the busy start and finish points and cheer on your runner from one of the lovely places along the route – whether that’s Sale, Altrincham, Chorlton or somewhere else- and enjoy what south Manchester has to offer?
“All the areas along the route are served by tram stops and it’s more likely you’ll be able to get from A to B more easily.”