Rochdale next stop for metrolink

OLDHAM Metrolink users will soon be able to catch the tram to Rochdale: the line is set to open next Thursday.

The 4.6-mile extension to the Shaw and Crompton line will run to Rochdale railway station, serving the former stations at Newhey and Milnrow and two new destinations at Kingsway and Newbold.

The first public tram from Rochdale will leave at 5.59am, while the first tram to Rochdale will leave Manchester Victoria at 6.08am. Services will run every 12 minutes.

Tickets from Rochdale to Shaw & Crompton, and all stops between, will cost £1.80 for a peak “anytime” single and £2.60 for a peak “anytime” return.

The Rochdale extension will bring the total size of the network to 43 miles.

By the time new lines to East Didsbury (summer 2013), Ashton (winter 2013/14), Oldham and Rochdale town centres (2014), and Manchester Airport via Wythenshawe (2016) are complete, the network will cover 59 miles — more than three times the original 18.5-mile network of 1992.