Temporary Metrolink service changes to be introduced during track repairs this weekend

Temporary service changes will be introduced on Metrolink this weekend following the discovery of a cracked rail in Manchester city centre.

A 10-metre section of rail on Portland Street will be replaced between 5pm on Saturday 6th April and 5am on Sunday 7th April.

The work has been scheduled for this time to minimise disruption to major events such as the Manchester United vs Liverpool match on Sunday afternoon.

Normal services will run on Saturday until 5pm when a new timetable for the affected lines will run as follows:

• Ashton to Piccadilly

• Eccles via MediaCityUK to Cornbrook

• Altrincham to Bury

Replacement buses will be provided for passengers travelling between Victoria to Piccadilly, and Piccadilly to Cornbrook. All other services will operate as normal.

Once the work has completed, all services will operate to regular Sunday timetables from the start of service at 6am.

Danny Vaughan, Transport for Greater Manchester’s Head of Metrolink, said: “Since identifying the rail defect we have moved quickly to put in place plans to replace it as soon as possible, and we expect normal service to resume on Sunday.

“However, there will be temporary service changes on specific lines on Saturday afternoon and into the evening, and I would encourage anyone planning to travel on Metrolink during this time to plan ahead and check our social media channels and website for the latest information and advice.”

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