Major Metrolink improvement works for August

The multi-million pound Metrolink expansion will come to Salford and Trafford later this summer as transport bosses build connections to new tram lines.

GMPTE has brought together plans for a raft of key expansion projects and essential system upgrades to take place in the quieter month of August.

Tram passengers using the Eccles and Altrincham lines will be able to use a range of alternative bus services as the lines close for these major works.

New connections will be built at the Trafford Bar stop to link up with the tram line now under construction to Chorlton, and the new Trafford tram depot.

At Cornbrook, the track layout will be extensively remodelled to accommodate the new MediaCityUK tram service and to provide greater operational flexibility and service availability.

A junction will also be built between the Harbour City and Broadway stops to allow trams to join up with the new spur to MediaCityUK from summer next year – doubling the frequency of trams between Salford Quays and Manchester .

There will be essential upgrade work to replace all the overhead electrical cables and some supporting structures on the Altrincham line, and plans are progressing for a range of improvements to modernise the older stops on this line.

Phil Purdy, GMPTE’s Metrolink Director, said: “This really is an exciting time for Metrolink.

“We’re investing millions on expanding and improving the system at the moment, making sure that it delivers the high standard of service passengers deserve.

“Carrying out all these essential expansion and upgrade projects at the same time – during the quietest month of the year – really does mean the least disruption for passengers in the long term.

“Once this work is out of the way we can build the spur off to MediaCityUK with very little further impact on Eccles services.

“And Altrincham passengers will really notice the difference as some of the oldest stops on the tram network will be updated.

“I thank all our passengers for bearing with us as we deliver the improvements they have been asking for.”

An information campaign will be launched later this year so that passengers are well aware of the alternative bus services and tickets available.

The plans to upgrade stops on the Altrincham line include improvements to passenger facilities, signage, security and access, as well as a bright new look using the new Metrolink colours – yellow and silver.

Structures and ticket offices at some stops will be refurbished, while the Navigation Road stop is also in line for more parking spaces and additional improvements.

The plans and associated funding will be presented to Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority’s (GMITA) Policy Committee at its next meeting in June for approval.

All the Metrolink track in Manchester city centre is currently being replaced to help make journeys smoother, quieter and more reliable.

40 new trams are also on order for the new expanded network, along with 200 state-of-the-art ticket machines.

Passengers can get more information about Metrolink services at www.metrolink.co.uk or by calling Metrolink Customer Services on 0161 205 2000. Lines are open between 7am and 11pm, Monday to Friday, and between 10am and 6pm at weekends.