Track replacement projects underway

Stretches of Metrolink and NET routes closed for renewal of worn-out track.

GREATER Manchester’s Metrolink tram system will be closed between MediaCityUK and Eccles until the start of service on October 22, to allow track replacement to take place.

The closure, from July 16, is the third phase of such work to be scheduled this year, the route having previously been closed for eight days in February and for most of April.

Part of the second stage of Metrolink to be constructed, the line was opened in December 1999 as far as the Broadway stop by then Prime Minister Tony Blair. It was extended to Eccles Interchange the following year and the spur to MediaCityUK became operational in 2010.

Transport for Greater Manchester says that 40 million passenger journeys have been made on the route in the last decade alone. The oldest track has seen almost 23 years of traffic.

Replacement bus services will call at Eccles, Ladywell, Weaste, Langworthy, Broadway and MediaCityUK. Further details about arrangements can be found online at: tfgm.com/ eccles-line

Nottingham

On the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) network, track relaying around the Hyson Green tram stop saw a temporary closure scheduled between

July 27 and August 7.

A replacement bus service was arranged between Wilkinson Street and The Forest, with tram services running across the rest of the system to an amended timetable.

NET head of operations Trevor Stocker said some sections of track had been in use since the system opened 18 years ago and were now due for replacement.

He added: “This work is being done as part of our scheduled maintenance programme which aims to ensure passengers continue to enjoy a safe and comfortable journey.”

While it aimed to minimise disruption to local residents and businesses, NET said some night-time road diversions could be necessary.

Tram users were advised to allow extra time for journeys and check the NET website: thetram.net for updates.