Time for another “Manchester Metrolink Then & Now” as we go to Cornbrook.
This time there is a bit of a twist to the series as the “Then” is not looking before trams were running but its still viewing construction work. Cornbrook may now be an integral part of the network but it may be forgotten that it didn’t actually open until 1999 (and even then it was just for interchange, exit from the stop followed in 2005). And today it has become a busy stop with passengers able to easily change between trams with its island platform making this a simple procedure.
This first image was taken in 1998 and shows T68 1018 speeding by in the background with work having started on the lift shaft and stairwell as what would become Cornbrook tramstop. This is the break through into the arches and we also see some of bracing needed to ensure stability of the structure.
In October 2019 we catch up with a more modern view of the stop as 3059 leads a double unit with an Altrincham to Bury service. This was shortly after the stop had been upgraded with additional shelters and screening to improve its rather exposed environment. (Both Photographs by Steve Hyde)