The Eccles tram line is having to close several times this year for essential maintenance of the tracks – after 22 years of operation.
A full closure of the line will take place for eight days over the February half term, between February 19 and 27. Further partial closures of the line are planned for the Easter and summer school holidays in order to minimise disruption to passengers.
The Eccles line was originally opened in 1999 and has supported millions of journeys since then. But now after more than two decades some of the track needs to be replaced.
Passengers will be able to visit a dedicated travel advice page to find information on alternative travel options to help plan their journey in advance. Metrolink staff will also be around at key locations, at busier times to help you to make your journey.
Danny Vaughan, Head of Metrolink at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: “In the past 10 years alone the Eccles line has supported 40 million journeys – providing a real alternative to using the car, helping people get around the region, reducing congestion and helping to cut air pollution.
“The Eccles Line, and the MediaCity spur, which was opened in 2010, have supported the local economy and been instrumental in the regeneration of the Quays area. It is therefore very important that we do these works now in order to help the area continue to grow and prosper.
“We know it’s going to cause some inconvenience for passengers so we are limiting the work to less busy times. Many passengers will be able to catch trams on the Trafford Park Line, and we will provide good alternatives to those who can’t.”
More details are available on the TfGM website and passengers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.
The 6.37km Eccles line first opened as far as the Broadway stop in December 1999 as part of the phase two expansion of the network. It was opened by then Prime Minister Tony Blair, the Prime Minister at the time. The service was extended to Eccles Interchange in July 2000 and was officially opened by Princess Anne in July 2001. A short spur to MediaCityUK opened in 2010.
For all the latest information on the route upgrade works and latest travel guidance, customers should visit https://tfgm.com/eccles-line
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