Drivers’ one-way ticket to Metrolink mayhem

TRAM danger . . . a doubled-parked, car faces the wrong way in Union Street

A SERIES of close shaves and blunders has prompted an urgent warning from Metrolink chiefs.

With only five weeks until trams start using the town centre line, there are fears motorists aren’t taking notice of signs and road layouts.

A Chronicle photographer pictured this car - double-parked and facing the wrong way - dangerously close to a tram outside a takeaway in Union Street. A car also collided with a tram on Manchester Street roundabout a week ago.

A Transport for Greater Manchester spokeswoman said drivers need to get up to speed with new permanent traffic regulations in the Union Street area.

Metrolink director Peter Cushing said: “We appreciate that drivers, cyclists and pedestrians are getting used to trams sharing the road. When Metrolink is in service, parking and traffic issues may cause delays so it is important all road users observe the permanent traffic arrangements.

Parking restrictions are in place along Union Street while the eastern end has reverted back to two-way traffic between Rhodes Bank and Waterloo Street.