Metrolink disruption on the cards next month

Essential works on the Eccles Metrolink line will take place at the end of next month

Work to deliver a bigger and better Metrolink network will result in some short term disruption to services on the Eccles line - which links to Oldham and through to Rochdale - this summer.

The essential works, which will link the under-construction Trafford Park Metrolink line with the existing tram network at Pomona stop, will result in a 13-day closure of the Eccles line following the last service on Friday, July 27.

No tram services will run between Cornbrook and Eccles from Saturday, July 28 to Thursday, August 9 inclusive, while services from Ashton-under-Lyne will terminate at Deansgate-Castlefield.

The works will see a 350-tonne and a 100-tonne crane working on site to temporarily remove the overhead power lines before cutting out the old track plinths to the west end of the Pomona stop and replacing them with new ones. Rails will then be reinstalled and overhead lines put back in place.

During the works there will be a full bus replacement operating including additional services during peak times.

The closure will also enable Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) to work with operator KeolisAmey Metrolink and other partners to carry out maintenance and repair works on the tram network and local area at the same time, minimising the overall impact to customers, local residents and businesses.

The works have been timed to coincide with school summer holidays when, traditionally, fewer people travel on the network. They have also been condensed into a single 13-day closure, preventing the need to close the line over multiple weekends.

Other measures taken to minimise disruption to customers and stakeholders include the use of noise blankets to limit the sound from loud machinery.

TfGM will keep customers and stakeholders updated with key information before, during and after the works.

Extra staff will also be present in key locations such as nearby tram stops and at peak times to answer questions and help people get around.

TfGM’s Head of Projects Alex Cropper, said: “This work is a landmark moment for the future expansion of Metrolink as we look to connect the upcoming Trafford Park line with the rest of the tram network.

“Unfortunately it will result in some disruption for passengers for a short period of time – but we have done a lot of planning to keep customers informed and on the move during the process and to keep disruption to a minimum.

“We’ve also worked closely with partners to identify other essential enhancement works that they could carry out during this time, such as deep cleaning stops, which will benefit passengers.

“Once the new tram line through to intu Trafford Centre is open it will mean more frequent services and much improved access to jobs and leisure across the wider tram network.”

For more information on Metrolink services visit www.tfgm.com, call Metrolink Customer Services on 0161 205 2000 or follow @MCRMetrolink on Twitter for live travel updates.