Driver training has started on the Oldham town centre extension of Manchester Metrolink this week as further progress is made towards the opening of the line in early 2014. The driving training commenced on Wednesday 4th December and is as essential part of the commissioning process of the line.
The Oldham town centre line will have four new stops at Westwood, Oldham King Street, Oldham Central and Oldham Mumps with the current Oldham Mumps stop being closed. A Park and Ride site will be provided at the new Oldham Mumps which will also serve as an interchange between tram and bus services.
Peter Cushing, Transport for Greater Manchester’s Metrolink Director, said: “It’s great news that we can work towards opening the new line to Oldham town centre sooner than expected, and driver training is a crucial stage in getting ready for passenger services. Obviously the training makes sure that drivers are fully familiar with the route, but also means we can iron out any issues in a live environment before we open the line for our customers in the new year.”
An exact date of the opening of the Oldham town centre line has yet to be announced but it is likely to be early in 2014. A week long closure of the line between Central Park and Rochdale Railway Station will be necessary ahead of the opening of the extension to allow work to be undertaken to connect the track and overhead equipment permanently and also so a full shadow service can be operated.
The second day of driver training on Thursday 5th December is pictured here as we see 3071 reversing at Oldham Mumps before being stabled at the end of a days work. (Photo: Steve Hyde)
3070 and 3071 stabled out at Mumps today
According to the TfGM website today, Central Park – Rochdale closes from Saturday 18th January for diversion via Oldham town centre, and reopens on Monday 27th January.