A Metrolink line is fully shut this weekend as more major improvement works are carried out. Engineering works are taking place on the Rochdale line today (Saturday, August 15) and on Sunday, meaning no trams will run between the Rochdale Town Centre and Manchester Victoria stops.
The works affect the entire line including all stops through Oldham. A replacement bus service has been put in place.
Further closures next week
Then from Monday (August 17), no trams will run between Oldham Mumps and Rochdale Town Centre until August 28. Works are also taking place at Manchester town hall this weekend, meaning no trams will operate via Exchange Square.
The track renewal works are part of a £150 million upgrade to Metrolink - the biggest upgrade in the network's history. In July, the Eccles, Trafford Centre and Altrincham lines had to close for three weeks as part of the upgrade.
Passengers thanked for patience
Ian Davies, network director for Metrolink, said previously that Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) had 'listened carefully' about how the reliability of replacement buses could be improved. "A massive thank you to passengers for their patience", he said.
"We know people have had to make alternative travel plans over the last few weeks, but we’re ready to welcome people back on to our trams. We’ve listened carefully to passengers throughout the closure, in particular about the reliability of our replacement buses. We’ll take on board the feedback for the next phases of work."
