Metrolink opening imminent?

TESTING time . . . trams were running every six minutes at Mumps yesterday

Trams were running every six minutes to Mumps yesterday along the temporary section of the Oldham-Rochdale line.

And with all the tracks and overhead lines in place, it seems that all that is missing is the official opening date.

Transport bosses have previously denied rumours the line would open on Monday — despite Metrolink ticket machines displaying a “starting soon” message to passengers. Bosses have begun booking advertising space for a promotional campaign at the end of June and into July.

Transport for Greater Manchester last week insisted it did not have an opening date organised. But a spokeswoman said: “We are in the final stages of testing and training.”

Work to construct a Metrolink extension through Oldham town centre continues to make life difficult for motorists, with road closures and diversions as utilities are diverted.