Metrolink disruption after tram and van collide in Ashton

The accident happened near Ashton West Metrolink station

A van has collided with a tram in Ashton near the Ashton West tram stop, causing considerable disruption to the line.

Emergency services have been in attendance along with engineers and customer service representatives from Metrolink.

The force of the collision has caused damage to an overhead line support pole.

Work to repair the pole can only begin once emergency services have completed their work.

As a result, services are unable to operate between Ashton-Under-Lyne and Ashton Moss and ticket acceptance is in place on the 216 bus service and Northen Rail services between Ashton and Victoria.

It is expected that services between the stops will be disrupted throughout the day.

The incident will be subject to an investigation.

TfGM’s Head of Metrolink Danny Vaughan, said: “This is a serious collision and our current focus is supporting emergency services in responding to this incident.

“We do not believe any tram passengers were injured but the extent of any injuries to the van driver is unknown at this time.

“The impact of the collision has caused damage to an overhead line pole, so it is likely to take some time to get services up and running.

“We’ll continue to keep passengers informed and I’d encourage people to check before they travel.”

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