The last set of major engineering works on Manchester Metrolink this year are set to take place over the first weekend in September to round off another year of major investment in improving the network as part of the ongoing investment from Transport for Greater Manchester.
TfGM are investing almost £150 million up until 2027 to ensure safe, reliable services across the Metrolink system. This includes maintenance, and upgrade and improvement works.
The next set of major works will take place between Friday 5th and Sunday 7th September with the focus moving to the Ashton-under-Lyne line. As well as work on the tracks the opportunity will be taken to work on drainage at Droylsden and Audenshaw. During these three days no trams will run from Piccadilly to Ashton, with a replacement bus service running in its place.
Danny Vaughan, Chief Network Officer at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: “This is the final piece of this year’s planned track replacement programme, and we would like to thank everyone for bearing with us while these essential upgrades have been carried out.
“Metrolink is the largest light rail network in the country and forms a key part of the Bee Network, with our trams carrying 46 million passenger journeys last year alone.
“As more people choose to get on board the Bee Network, it’s important we continue to invest in our tram system to keep it safe, reliable and accessible for years to come.”
In addition to this work, there is also due to be a line closure between St Peter’s Square and Market Street/Piccadilly Gardens on Sunday 31st August to allow for track repair works on Mosley Street. Whilst all stops will remain open there will be changes to services with those which usually run from St Peter’s Square to either Piccadilly Gardens or Market Street being altered.
Trams from Ashton will be diverted to Bury, those from Altrincham will run to Crumpsall, Manchester Airport services will be terminated at Deansgate-Castlefield whilst the service from Eccles will run to Victoria.