TfGM encourages forward planning for travel during cold weather

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is encouraging city-region residents to plan for disruption and delays on the transport network during cold weather.

With daytime temperatures close to or below freezing over the coming days, and dropping as low an -10C in more rural upland areas, the transport network is expecting disruption amid icy conditions. The morning of 9th January has already seen a number of delays for commuters travelling on the Metrolink tram network, as well as disruption to flights from Manchester Airport. Journey times when travelling by car are also likely to increase amid difficult driving conditions across the city-region.

Danny Vaughan, TfGM’s Chief Network Officer, said:

“With the weather forecast showing sub-zero temperatures across Greater Manchester and elsewhere over the coming days, we’re encouraging everyone to plan ahead, check before you travel and take extra care.

“Roads and pavements could be icy, making driving conditions difficult and impacting journey times. There may also be some disruption to public transport services.

“Our hard-working staff are continuing do everything they can to minimise disruption across the public transport network, while also working alongside partners to ensure platforms at tram stops, interchanges and the roads are gritted.

“As always, they are being supported by our control room, which is staffed around the clock with links to local authorities and emergency services. Customers will also be able to find the latest information and travel advice on our social media and digital channels, with the Bee Network app also providing updates and bus and tram service departures.”

Network Rail is also advising anyone travelling by train in the region to to check before they travel, with track engineers applying de-icer to points throughout the North West, including in Buxton and Longsight.

Phil James, Network Rail’s North West route director, said:

“We’ve already seen the drop in temperatures impact the railway this week and whilst we plan and prepare, it could mean longer journey times. 

“We are urging passengers to check their journeys before travelling and to take extra care in the freezing conditions.”

TfGM customer information can be found here, while Met Office advice can be found here. Rail passengers should check with their train operator or on the National Rail website for up-to-date travel advice