TfGM to replace 4 km of Metrolink track in upcoming improvement works

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is set to replace around 4 km of track as part a £150 million programme of investment into one of the busiest sections of the Metrolink network.

Work between Trafford Bar and Deansgate-Castlefield will take place from Monday 19 October until Sunday 1 November. It will allow further speed restrictions to be lifted, leading to quicker and more reliable journeys for passengers ahead of upcoming proposed expansions of the tram network, including into Stockport town centre.

Around 100,000 journeys every day are already benefitting from journey time improvements following previous phases of work.

To allow work to be carried out safely and efficiently some lines will have to close for the full two-week period. There will also be significant service changes on some other lines, and passengers are being advised to plan their journeys.

There will be a range of alternative travel options available while the work is taking place to help people get where they need to go. Customers can find line-by-line travel information, shuttle bus details, Bee Network bus details and journey-planning advice through the dedicated major works page and the Bee Network app. Extra staff will also be on hand to help customers during the closure period.

Special transport arrangements will also be in place for Manchester United’s home fixture against Bournemouth on Sunday 25 October. 

Ian Davies, Network Director for Metrolink at TfGM, said:

“This is essential work that will help keep our tram network safe, reliable and fit for the future. We’re sorry for the disruption and we’ll be doing everything we can to make sure people can still get around while it’s taking place.

“We’ve listened carefully to feedback from customers during previous closures and have introduced more direct shuttle buses between key locations and extra buses on local Bee Network routes.  

“If you use any of the affected lines, now is the time to check your travel plans. We’d encourage everyone to visit the Bee Network website or app before travelling so they can see the options available to them and allow extra time where necessary.”