Tram services have resumed on the Oldham-Rochdale line after essential track replacement work was successfully completed, marking a major milestone in this summer’s programme of network improvements.
The work, which took place over a planned two-week closure between Victoria and Rochdale town centre, is part of a wider £150m investment to maintain and improve Greater Manchester’s tram network. It will help deliver a smoother, more reliable service for passengers and support the long-term resilience of the network.
Engineers worked day and night between Monsall and Newton Heath & Moston to replace 1.2km of track, improve drainage, renew foundations and correct the alignment and level of the track.
It was a big and complex job, using around 290 new concrete sleepers, 2,000 tonnes of gravel and replacing more than 5,000 tonnes of ballast.
As a result, sections of the route that previously required speed restrictions can now return to normal operation – up to 50mph on some sections – helping to improve journey times for customers.
Ian Davies, TfGM’s Network Director for Metrolink, said:
“This was a large and complex piece of engineering, that will make a real difference to the reliability and long-term condition of the network.
“It’s the first major milestone of a wider programme of improvements we’re delivering across our tram network this summer to keep it safe, resilient and fit for the future.
“We know closing a line is disruptive, and we’re very grateful for everyone continuing to bear with us while this essential work is completed.”
Further improvement work will take place at other locations across the Bee Network over the coming months. The most significant being at Trafford Bar and Deansgate-Castlefield. While this work is carried out, there will be no trams on the Eccles, Trafford Centre or Altrincham lines for three weeks from Monday 13 July to Sunday 2 August.
Before that, further tram improvement work will take place in the city centre. No trams will operate via Market Street or Shudehill between Monday 1 and Tuesday 9 June.Customers may need to change trams, take a short walk or hop on the free bus to continue their journey. Outside of free bus operating times, a replacement bus will operate between Piccadilly and Victoria.
