Work on the major redevelopment of Bury Interchange is due to start later this month, beginning with the construction of a new footbridge and improvements to tram platforms.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) said the multi-million-pound scheme will transform the site into a modern and accessible transport hub, with a new footbridge, access improvements and upgraded facilities.
Two-phase project gets underway
The project will be delivered in two phases. The first phase, due to start in mid-November, will see the construction of the new footbridge and improvements to tram platforms.
Once the first phase is complete, work can begin on redeveloping the whole of Bury Interchange, with the aim of making it easier for people to travel on the Bee Network by bus, tram, walking, wheeling or cycling.
The new footbridge will connect Union Square and Pyramid Park, with a new lift providing step-free access to the Metrolink platforms. Canopies will be replaced, alongside upgrades to lighting, signage, CCTV, passenger information displays and ticket machines.
Continued tram access and contractor appointed
The new bridge will allow continued access to the trams when the anticipated demolition of the current interchange and construction of the new one takes place. Trams will continue running to Bury throughout most of the project, although TfGM has warned of some planned disruption to journeys in the future.
Oldham-based company Willmott Dixon has been appointed by TfGM to carry out the first phase of work at a cost of £17.9m, which is expected to be completed in early 2028.
Bev Craig, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “Bury Interchange has been here for over 40 years and it’s served the community well – thousands of people pass through it every day. But everyone can see it’s becoming worn out, so it’s about time we invested in it and made it a proper gateway to the town centre.”
Second phase and town centre vision
This work will pave the way for the full redevelopment of the interchange, including new apartments planned as part of the second phase, which is due to start in 2028.
Between 70 and 80 apartments have been earmarked for the development across a six-storey block. While TfGM initially advertised the scheme as fully affordable in its procurement notice, it has now said it is ‘tenure agnostic’.
Councillor Charlotte Morris, cabinet member for Regeneration and Growth at Bury council, said: “The transformation of Bury Interchange is a key part of our long-term vision for the town centre and the wider regeneration of Bury. This investment is about much more than improving transport links.”
Part of the Metrolink car park will be used for a construction site compound while work takes place, but most of the parking spaces will still be available throughout the first phase of the project. There may be some short-term closures of the car park during this phase, with alternative Metrolink Park and Ride parking available at Radcliffe and Whitefield, according to TfGM.
