TfGM presses ahead with major Metrolink renewal programme as network prepares for future expansion

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is investing £150 million to modernise key sections of the Metrolink network, with a major summer engineering programme designed to improve reliability while laying the foundations for future tram extensions, including the proposed route to Stockport.

A significant phase of the infrastructure programme will begin on 13 July, with engineers carrying out extensive track renewal works on one of the busiest sections of the UK's light rail network between Trafford Bar and Deansgate-Castlefield. The project will run until 2 August, with additional upgrades also taking place on the Eccles line during the same period.

The route through Trafford Bar is among the most intensively used tram corridors anywhere in the world, with services passing through approximately every 30 seconds for up to 20 hours each day. After more than three decades of continuous operation, sections of the infrastructure have reached the point where major renewal is required.

During the closure, engineers will replace around 1.6 kilometres of track, installing more than 3,000 tonnes of new railalongside 800 concrete sleepers. Around 70 engineers will be working simultaneously across three locations to complete the programme as efficiently as possible.

Once installed, the new infrastructure will undergo extensive testing and alignment to ensure it meets the required safety standards while delivering a smoother, more reliable journey for passengers.

The project will also introduce new technology to UK light rail construction. At the Cornbrook junction, where the Eccles and Altrincham lines intersect, contractors will deploy Genesis Panel Lifters for the first time in Britain. The specialist lifting equipment is expected to improve installation efficiency and help engineers complete one of the network's most technically challenging sections within the planned programme.

To minimise the number of separate closures required, TfGM is combining several maintenance projects into the same possession. Additional works will therefore be undertaken around Eccles and Piccadilly Gardens between 13 and 29 July.

The engineering programme will inevitably affect services across several routes.

No trams will operate on the Eccles, Trafford Centre or Altrincham lines throughout the closure, while East Didsburyand Manchester Airport services will terminate at Firswood. Rochdale services will instead terminate at Exchange Square.

Replacement bus services will operate throughout the closure, with additional buses scheduled to support spectators travelling to cricket fixtures at Old Trafford on 26 July and 31 July.

Alongside the track improvements, TfGM is investing a further £1.7 million to improve accessibility by replacing eight lifts across the Metrolink network. The programme is aimed at improving the long-term reliability of step-free access for disabled passengers, older travellers and people using pushchairs or carrying luggage.

The authority says replacing ageing lift equipment will provide a more dependable service and reduce recurring maintenance issues experienced at several stops.

Ian Davies, Network Director for Metrolink at TfGM, said the renewal programme was essential to maintaining one of the country's busiest light rail systems.

"The work at Trafford Bar and Deansgate-Castlefield is taking place on one of the busiest stretches of tram track in the country. Some sections are more than 30 years old, with 40-tonne trams running every 30 seconds at peak times – that level of wear and tear takes its toll, which is why this work is so important.

"It's one of the most complex parts of the network to access, requiring a carefully planned approach to carry out the work safely and efficiently. These upgrades will also help us reduce journey times and make services more reliable for passengers.

"At the same time, we're taking the opportunity to service our trams, helping to improve reliability when services resume. We're also replacing lifts at a number of stops to provide more dependable step-free access.

"We're sorry for the disruption. We know it can be frustrating, and while these essential upgrades take place we will do everything we can to keep people moving."

The latest programme forms part of TfGM's long-term strategy to modernise and futureproof Metrolink as passenger demand continues to grow. The investment also supports wider ambitions to expand the network, with work continuing on proposals to extend tram services to Stockport as part of Greater Manchester's wider integrated Bee Network vision.

By renewing ageing infrastructure now, TfGM aims to improve operational resilience, reduce maintenance requirements and ensure the network is capable of supporting future growth for decades to come.