There will be changes to Manchester Metrolink services from 19th October to 1st November as the last set of major improvement works for 2026 will take place. During these works around 4km of track will be replaced between Trafford Bar and Deansgate-Castlefield with the aim being that after they are completed more speed restrictions will be able to be lifted leading to more reliable journeys.
During this period the following changes will be in place:
- No trams will operate on the Altrincham, Eccles and Trafford Park lines
- Trams from East Didsbury and Manchester Airport will terminate at Firswood
- Trams from Rochdale Town Centre and Shaw & Crompton will terminate at Exchange Square
Express shuttle buses will operate from Sale, Chorlton, Trafford Centre and MediaCityUK linking limited stops along each line with the city centre. There will also be a direct express service from Altrincham to Piccadilly every 15 minutes.
Anyone with either a 7-day, 28-day or annual Metrolink pass will be able to use them on Bee Network buses and Northern rail services between Altrincham/Navigation Road, East Didsbury, Manchester Airport and Eccles and the city centre. Anyone else will need to buy a ticket to travel on these services.
Ian Davies, Network Director for Metrolink at TfGM, said: “This is essential work that will help keep our tram network safe, reliable and fit for the future. We’re sorry for the disruption and we’ll be doing everything we can to make sure people can still get around while it’s taking place.
“We’ve listened carefully to feedback from customers during previous closures and have introduced more direct shuttle buses between key locations and extra buses on local Bee Network routes.
“If you use any of the affected lines, now is the time to check your travel plans. We’d encourage everyone to visit the Bee Network website or app before travelling so they can see the options available to them and allow extra time where necessary.”
The work is all part of £150 million worth of investment to maintain, renew and improve the Metrolink network. Once this closure is over there will be no more major periods of work this year.