Hi

Piccadilly Metrolink Temporary Stop Closure

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) is advising passengers that the Piccadilly station Metrolink stop will be closed on Sunday 27 March. This is to facilitate works on the construction of the new East Manchester line. During the temporary closure:


•A replacement bus service will operate between Piccadilly Gardens and Piccadilly Station.
•The Altrincham and Bury services will be running from Piccadilly Gardens.
•The Eccles service will run from Victoria train station. Information will be available at stations to inform passengers about the replacement bus service.

Out of hours work Portugal Street E. to Cambrian St viaduct
We are currently building the new Metrolink line from Manchester Piccadilly to Droylsden (the East Manchester line). We are continuing with construction on the underpass that will carry the tram under Great Ancoats Street. Over the course of the next week we will need to carry out work at Great Ancoats Street outside our usual hours of construction.

Extended work will take place Monday 4th April to Friday 8th April from 18:00 to 02:00 for installation of OLE wires from anchors adjacent to Portugal Street East, following the new track position up to and including Cambrian Street viaduct.

On Saturday 26th March Sheffield Street will be closed for two months to enable the connection of the New East Manchester Line into the existing Metrolink system. Please be advised access into Piccadilly Undercroft for Businesses will still be maintained, as will access into the parking.


East Manchester Metrolink line � Out of hours work off Sheffield Street (under arches at Piccadilly station buffer stops)

Extended work will also take place Friday 25th March to Thursday 7th April from 22:00 to 06:00 for Installation of OLE poles in Piccadilly Undercroft and Sheffield Street, this involves the running of new tensioned OLE wires and registration from Piccadilly Undercroft to Portugal Street East.

ALL GENERATOR EQUIPMENT WILL BE SUPER SILENCED.
ALL LIGHTING WILL BE DIRECTED AWAY FROM RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

We apologise for any inconvenience caused, please bear with us while we build your new Metrolink line.


Both of this are off GMPTE website

Just got back from a week in New York to find that yay, they have finally started clearing the filled in bit of the Didsbury cutting that's blocking the entrance to the tunnel under the pub and Wilmslow Road :)

They haven't got so far yet but they are working on it, starting from the School Lane bridge:

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20tunnel%2021032011/IMG_1080.jpg

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20tunnel%2021032011/IMG_1079.jpg

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20tunnel%2021032011/IMG_1078.jpg

Gonna have to keep an eye on this one! Love the never-used tunnel!

I drove past Lord Sheldon Way on Ashton Moss this afternoon. There's now a two storey temporary office block on the park and ride car park as the site offices for MPT. The sub-base for the track in the central reservation is well advanced either side of the roundabout at Ashton Leisure Park and they have now excavated a route through the roundabout. Unfortunately I couldn't stop to take pictures.

Really good updates there thanks Jerb & Martin - cheers :)

came through picadilly gardens today and lots of orange jackets at the points just before the stop and down at the alti/bury section, do they need clearing of rubbish to ensure they keep working ok?, forgive me if it seems a silly question was just curious, thanks

Really good updates there thanks Jerb & Martin - cheers :)

Seconded, the tunnel never used but much observed, and nice to see the OLE poles striding up the ramp to Man City with their tin men's hats glinting in the Spring Equinox - they were only being delivered by lorry last week. :cheers:Cheers also R2b - the first overhead running line on the East Manchester will be a welcome sight! It's looking like 4 possible openings before the end of the year :banana::banana::banana::banana:

Points and rails do need clearing of rubbish, manclad, but at that those locations might it also have been something to do with TMS (TOS) and the installation of the NADI (Next Altrincham Departure Indicator) prior to decommissioning of Mosley Street stop?

came through picadilly gardens today and lots of orange jackets at the points just before the stop and down at the alti/bury section, do they need clearing of rubbish to ensure they keep working ok?, forgive me if it seems a silly question was just curious, thanks

Simple answer, yes they frequently need clearing of rubbish. Quite small objects will cause them to fail. A couple of millimetres obstruction will fail them. With so much litter and rubbish around it's not surprising they fail. One factor contributing is that the little road sweeping machine used by the council sweeps everything straight into the points. They also act a drains for rain water.

cheers jhonny and freel much appreciated

Simple answer, yes they frequently need clearing of rubbish. Quite small objects will cause them to fail. A couple of millimetres obstruction will fail them. With so much litter and rubbish around it's not surprising they fail. One factor contributing is that the little road sweeping machine used by the council sweeps everything straight into the points. They also act a drains for rain water.

Cant they use wire brushes in front of the wheels like on scaletrics :lol:

Cant they use wire brushes in front of the wheels like on scaletrics :lol:

Or on the back. Get on Dragons Den. I have no money however. So i'm out.

Some from around Manchester road roundabout.

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-6/1193624/DSC02325.JPG

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-6/1193624/DSC02326.JPG

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-6/1193624/DSC02327.JPG

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-6/1193624/DSC02328.JPG


Hard to think that a tram will come burning though here one day

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-6/1193624/DSC02329.JPG

Tight fit squeezing the Tramway next to this school in a cutting!

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-6/1193624/DSC02331.JPG

Oldham and Rochdale Line - South of Oldham Mumps

Firstly I apologise if I am stealing the thunder of JDR and Cpl_R, but couldn't resist taking these shots.

Oldham Way Footbridge - looking towards Mumps Roundabout
I never realised how much tree site clearance had taken place. You'll have read in these threads about the roundabout changing to a staggered junction with the A62 as mainline. The clearance before the old B & Q is so that the land can eventually make way for a side road to Oldham town centre and the P&R site.
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/P210311_1327.jpg

Oldham Way Footbridge - looking towards the worksite
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/P210311_1327_01.jpg

Oldham Way Footbridge - looking north towards Mumps station site
I now understand why the new station is being built closer towards Manchester, that's to enable the distance for the alignment to descend to street level at Mumps roundabout area.
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/P210311_1330.jpg

Oldham Way Footbridge - looking more closely towards Mumps station site
I take it from the concrete works that an island platform will be built. Will it all be filled with capping and MOT, or will it remain hollow?
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/P210311_1328_01.jpg

Oldham Way Footbridge - looking south towards Werneth & Manchester
This is pretty much as I found it last time, these rails are yet to be replaced.
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/P210311_1329.jpg

Cutting from Railway Gazette

Manchester Metrolink starts Phase 3b
22 March 2011

UK: Construction work has started on a 3·9 km extension of the Manchester Metrolink light rail network from Droylsden to Ashton-under-Lyne, following a groundreaking ceremony held on March 8. This is the first of the projects included in Phase 3b of the network expansion programme to get underway.

The work is being undertaken by the M-Pact Thales consortium of Laing O'Rourke, GrantRail and Thales as an option on the existing contract for Phase 3a, which includes construction of a line to Droylsden from the existing terminus at Manchester Piccadilly.

The four-stop Ashton extension will open in winter 2014. It will run on-street to Audenshaw, and then follow a segregated alignment to reach a bus-tram interchange in Ashton town centre. There will be a park-and-ride site for more than 600 cars at Ashton Moss.

Meanwhile, work is getting underway on the 14∙5 km Phase 3b extension from St Werburgh’s Road in Chorlton-cum-Hardy to Manchester Airport, which is due to open in 2016. Trees are being cleared close to Sale Golf Club, where the layout of the course has been changed to accommodate the line. Vegetation clearance is being completed in the Sale Water Park area, and utility relocation is underway along the route.

Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority has also announced further public consultation over the route of the proposed Second City Crossing through the centre of Manchester, which will be required to accommodate the significant increase in Metrolink services that should follow completion of the current extension programme.

GMITA has also reiterated its enthusiasm for diesel tram-train operation on Network Rail's Altrincham – Chester line, and has set up a partnership with Cheshire East Council which has instigated a study into future options for the route. GMITA Vice-Chair Councillor Keith Whitmore suggested this could be completed ahead of the proposed tram-train trial in South Yorkshire, telling Railway Gazette International ‘why are we fooling around with experiments, the experiments have been done in Europe, why don’t we just get on with it?'

Hi

Good picture of Oldham Cpl_R and at Oldham Mumps Ashtonian, Also I found this video on Youtube of Abraham Moss stop takes shape and after look at video it look like it could open in April.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgKmAY0KF0s

Airport line clearance now includes M60 southern embankment north of Sale Rd.

Just taken a walk down past St Werburghs, and the pathway that is now a continuation of the Fallowfield Loop is pretty threatening at night. The streetlights are switched on along the section next to the track behind the big fence, parallel to Corkland Road, but no streetlights are switched on from there onwards.

They are installed, so I think that part of the issue will go away once the station actually opens.

However what I don't think will change is the fact that there is no lighting at all from the station down the first part of the Fallowfield Loop, which I think is a great shame as this little bit will be quite heavily used at least by my estate.

This is the bit I mean, in yellow (St Werby's station is the red cross and the blue surrounds the houses that could potentially use this path as Metrolink access).

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Capture.jpg

I realise that's actually a very small catchment area, but just a couple of lights would make a huge difference - the Loop is also used by cyclists I have noticed even after dark, I'm sure they would love a little illumination!

Do you think there is any chance of this happening?? :-(

Good point, Martin. One of the photo opportunities my mind's eye has been waiting to take for some time, will be of a banana standing at St W's, viewed from a good way back down the Fallowfield loop. When the trees are in leaf, as well as the resonance of green and yellow, I think it will give the impression of the tram alone in a woodland glade . . .

I hadn't realised there is no lighting on that last bit - the night or twilight view will be even more staggering, looking through the leafy gloom at the distant tram, shining like Blackpool Illuminations !

I guess they will have to light the path, however, as a significant access to the station, but it will still look great.

Here are a few fleeting glimpses of Abraham Moss, the first yellow signs North of Victoria? These 'catenary' style span wires also seem to be all the rage nowadays :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0810.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0811.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0812.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0807.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0808.jpg

And the Guntert und Zimmerman has been at work on the second track at Edge Lane station :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0813.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0897.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0898.jpg

:banana:

Great pictures everybody. Johnny, the colours are really coming out now that we've finally seen the back of winter. You can make out my lads new school peeking out on the last one. He transfers over there in December from the Littlemoss site. Can you keep an eye out and make sure he doesn't get up to any mischief? :)

Some weeks back there was some discussion about the original layout and use of the Undercroft at Piccadilly station. I've now found the drawing I mentioned, so I thought I should post it here.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_AhCTdP5f-eY/TYktLkyv5zI/AAAAAAAAAFo/akxp-Dysjfc/s640/piccundercoft.jpg (https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_AhCTdP5f-eY/TYktLkyv5zI/AAAAAAAAAFo/akxp-Dysjfc/s0/piccundercoft.jpg)

Click the picture for a larger version.

This is not the full resolution file (that's huge), but it should be good enough to make out the main features. It's about 1 meg in size.

It is orientated with the main station buffer stops at the left. Sheffield St. runs along the top, while Fairfield St is at an angle along the bottom, with part of Mayfield Station visible in the bottom right hand corner.

Starting in the top left, the area under the 'LNER' legend is now the car park between Rail House (now Piccadilly Gate) and the Metrolink station. The two wagon hoists are clearly visible.

Below this, is where the Metrolink station is now, and also the main station entrance and taxi rank.

The angled roadway to the right of this is where the trams now run (turnback siding and future East Manchester line). "Old Mess Room" to the left of the exit to Sheffield St is what became the 'Cow Pen' Telecomms messroom.

Further to the right is the main set of brick arches. There's another wagon hoist, with its own hydraulic accumulator in this block. This is the area I explored about 30 years ago, when part of it was used as a Telecomms junk store. I wish I'd had access to this plan then.

Right again, and Travis St crosses at an angle. To the right of this is the stables, later used as the Relay Rooms for the 1959 Power Signal Box which was built on the site of the turntable at the end of the MSJ&A lines (conveniently opposite the "Star and Garter" :cheers:).

The whole of the undercroft area is interconnected with track, and numerous wagon turntables. However, to answer earlier speculation, there is no sign of any track exiting where the trams will do and crossing Sheffield St. The only track that does cross this street is down towards the junction with Travis St, where it went into a railway Goods Yard (pics of this were posted earlier). More track crosses Travis St into the area in front of the old Parcelforce building (now Network Rail's 'Square One' building).

I hope this will be of interest to a few of you.

Cheers High-Fi :cheers:
Johnny, the colours are really coming out now that we've finally seen the back of winter. You can make out my lads new school peeking out on the last one. He transfers over there in December from the Littlemoss site. Can you keep an eye out and make sure he doesn't get up to any mischief?
The new Droylsden Academy coming into view will have a convenient Met stop, but tell him we don't want any misbehaviour or marlicking around on it! I just realised that the new building is also starting to obscure the ley line (was it you, High, who objected to my mentioning this? - If so I will delete it!) (I must also confess to a touch of re-touching the colours sometimes to brighten things up a bit! . . . )

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0898.jpg

Anyway, it looks like Oldham has been the location of choice again to-day for several of the comrades - cheers Cpl and Ash, and apologies for duplication, but the more the merrier I always say . . .

Once the chocolate-brown piece of 60's brutalism in the centre of this picture has gone (i.e. the Co-op Funeral parlour, oblong creme de cacao), pedestrians descending from the high footbridge will see a yellow banana coming towards them at that location instead :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0835.jpg

Heading towards the camera, it will look a lot better than the funeral parlour, and then dip sharply down to the right (the camera's left) before it gets to the church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Saint Patrick. (NB this shot has been zoomed and telescoped) :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0834.jpg

It was then going to be in a tunnel under the hotel which stood on this site :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0831.jpg

Now it will descend steeply in a cutting, with excellent forward views. Last year it looked like this :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/100_4450.jpg

To-day after vegetation clearance you can see where it will go under the by-pass :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0826.jpg

The route will cross between the two V-shaped supports, left to right away from the camera, and down towards the subway portal, leading to the high-rise flats :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0839.jpg

Perhaps like us, passengers will now be able to see right down Manchester Road :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0845.jpg

Looking back from under the by-pass back up to the church - it will be a fair climb :-

Before:
http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/100_6491-1.jpg

After:
http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0847.jpg

From further back by the subway leading to the flats, last year :-



http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/100_6493.jpg

To-day you can see right up the hill :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0850.jpg

Last year I posted :-

Upwards and onwards through the woodland, the line approaches Manchester Street roundabout via one of the pedestrian subways, which it will replace :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/100_6496.jpg

The same spot above the subway :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/100_6494.jpg

Now very little woodland remains, either above or below :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0851.jpg

Looking back across the whole scene up towards Oldham from Manchester Road, the four trees in the last picture are now below centre left, from where the line will pass upwards between the V's, towards the remaining evergreens above centre right. Pity to lose the woodland, but it certainly opens the area up with many more lines of sight. All in all, when finally landscaped, I think it will quite a spectacular alignment :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0856.jpg

Facing Manchester again, works are proceeding underneath Featherstall Road South at Werneth. The station disappeared some time ago :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0860.jpg

:banana:

FAO: Johnny and High Fi.

I have noticed the new school going up on the Manor Road site, but it hadn't really clicked that Littlemoss was closing. What is happening to the Littlemoss site, housing?

Some weeks back there was some discussion about the original layout and use of the Undercroft at Piccadilly station. I've now found the drawing I mentioned, so I thought I should post it here.


Great pic gb, thanks for posting it

From the minutes of a Policy and Resources committee meeting held on the 18th.

They are considering a Cross City bus interchange on Princess Street to form a tram interchange. Mosley street closed to all non-tram traffic as planned.

A classified report on Metrolink fares was considered.

1.) That the report be noted;
2.) That Members agree those proposed fares strategy for the Metrolink Phase 3a line extensions, as set out in the report;
3.) That the proposed fare for the first extensions of the Oldham Rochdale line and the South Manchester line to St Werburgh’s Road be approved;
4.) That the development of phase 3A marketing and communications plan be noted.

Also looks like after a trial sandite dispensors will be rolled out on trams in time for the next Autumn leaf fall but not any details (they did build a sanding tower at Queens Road at the end of last year didnt they?).

Hopefully they will bring in a zone system to give people a bit more flexibility if they want to "stray" from their usual travel pattern. When smartcards come in hopefully this will bring some improvements to the fares structure.

The train zones for the old "saver sevens" were quite good and very unique in the UK as they allowed travel in the zones you paid for plus all buses. Sadly it disappeared and season tickets came back which was a backward step but then London introduced what we had over 30 years ago and patronage soared.

Another day of trams being coupled to a tram of a similar number.

1001 with 1003
1007 with 1008
1010 with 1011
1016 with 1018
1017 with 1019

:nuts::nuts::nuts:

I did ask this question a few weeks ago..but why are there still so many older trams on the ECC line...normally its awash with Bananas...

Another day of trams being coupled to a tram of a similar number.

1001 with 1003
1007 with 1008
1010 with 1011
1016 with 1018
1017 with 1019

:nuts::nuts::nuts:

Good to see plenty of doubles running though!

I did ask this question a few weeks ago..but why are there still so many older trams on the ECC line...normally its awash with Bananas...

So that the TOS equipment in the T68 cabs can be proved to be working & any faults identified and sorted. It can only be done in the mesh radio coverage area thats currently active.

So that the TOS equipment in the T68 cabs can be proved to be working & any faults identified and sorted. It can only be done in the mesh radio coverage area thats currently active.

Ah thanks cap` how long will this continue for ?

A interesting report on the Transpennine Trail issues in East Didsbury

http://www.gmita.gov.uk/download/3407/item_10_east_didsbury_metrolink-transpennine_trail_issues

There are many houses old and new next to Failsworth Station :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0929.jpg

An unpretentious area, they seem to have coped ok without an 8 ft fence between them and the railway, even though the tracks are elevated rather than being in a cutting! :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0927.jpg

Joyfully, in addition to the tracks that r02bapurdie showed us (in that unusual location at South Chadderton - a cutting within an embankment!), all the sleeper track now seems to be in place between Failsworth and a point just East of Thorpes Bridge :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0922.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0923.jpg

Looking towards Manchester, a substation has been built on the left by Failsworth Broadway :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0915.jpg

Approaching Mill Street underbridge, the Metrolink line will change from double to single by means of the crossover. The railway locomotive is on what would now seem to be an East-facing headshunt as part of the Metrolink formation. The track behind the loco and its wagons has been severed, with the consequence that there will be no longer be any through access Eastwards from the Refuse Destructor plant, nor from Network Rail in general :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0916.jpg

Looking back East from Mill Street above the same crossover, which in that direction will re-double Metrolink towards Failsworth :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0913.jpg

And looking at Mill Street from Mill Lane, a touch further West :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0908.jpg

The old and the new, looking in the same direction from Morton Street towards Mill Lane and Mill Street bridges. The buffer stop marks the end of a new West-facing headshunt from the destructor, and the spanking new single line is Metrolink's bi-directional route through Newton Heath and Moston, a similar arrangement to that which exists at Navigation Road (but without the level crossings!) :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0906.jpg

The converse view, looking from Mill Lane towards Morton Street bridge, with the turnout from the new headshunt into the destructor plant :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0910.jpg

Further into Manchester, the Waste Disposal depot seen from Morton Street. The former Eastbound Rail track, beside Metrolink at this point, will presumably remain as a run-around into the new headshunt. Through the underbridge at Reliance Street, can be seen the beginnings of Newton Heath and Moston tram stop :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0907.jpg

The destructor plant seen looking Eastwards from Reliance Street overbridge at the opposite end, with its turnout and run-around on the left (buffer stop in the distance), and Metrolink on the right :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0904.jpg

Looking the other way from Reliance Street, we see Newton Heath and Moston tram stop on the left, with the refuse disposal running line still on the right :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0903.jpg

The station formerly known as Dean Lane, from where this shot was taken :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0886.jpg

And this one from Dean Avenue. Metrolink stimulates new development with an eight foot fence . . .

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0889.jpg

From Dean Lane now looking Westwards, Metrolink's line re-doubles again, opposite Newton Heath loco sheds :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0875.jpg

Approaching Thorpes Bridge and Central Park :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0877.jpg

Looking back from Thorpes Bridge, it looks like they're ready to lay the next bits :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0870.jpg

It will all make quite an interesting railway view :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0869.jpg

From Thorpes Bridge looking West, a DMU emerges under the finback on a depot working. Get some tracks on that concrete! :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0864.jpg

The only bits of missing line on Oldham's Phase 3a route now seem to be at Werneth and on the finback bridge here at Thorp Road. The new GM Police Headquarters has arisen behind it, and unfortunately it can no longer be seen broadside from Oldham Road, but it's still my favourite piece of concrete sculpture :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0863.jpg

:banana:

:cheers: JdR

Hi

Good picture of Oldham line Johnny :cheers: Also on Oldham Line the track have been laid down as far to near Freehold Station but it can't be long until the start putting tracks down they.

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0864.jpg

So is the train forced to enter (the wrong way) onto the main line, only to leave it again a few metres later? Was the track layout the same before the fin-back bridge was built?

Hello. Just wondering why there is only one track between Central Park and Moston?

By Moston do you mean Failsworth? If so its because theres a Waste Disposal Facility just beyond Newton Heath that still requires heavy rail access.

Ahh see see. Failsworth, Moston - grew up in both, neither here nor there. One demolished it's only source of entertainment. The other built a monument to rival the Eiffel tower. Fun and games.

. . . and the underlying principle, imposed by Network Rail & its predecessors, is that trams are not allowed on to the railroads. So, if there is only room for 2 tracks, Seasoned, as is the case here and at Navigation Road, it has to be one track each, both to be worked as bi-directional.

All this may change, however, in years to come if we ever get around to tram-train working. The Penistone experiment has been given the go-ahead to-day, but as Keith Whitmore quite rightly said, "why go fooling around with more experiments? The experiments have already been done on the continent, let's get on with it."

Soupcon, not really my subject, but I think this shot shows why depot workings have to run wrong-road on the Castleton line, and right-road on the waste destructor line?

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0869.jpg

I don't know whether the alignments have changed to accommodate the finback bridge.

Good god I hope they clean up the other side of the Moston platform where the heavy rail track will still be running.

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0864.jpg

So is the train forced to enter (the wrong way) onto the main line, only to leave it again a few metres later? Was the track layout the same before the fin-back bridge was built?

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0869.jpg

Great shots as always JDR! Great to finally see tracks being laid here, I never thought I would see the day!

Soupçon, the track layout is exactly as it was before. The Oldham line trains previously crossed over the the crossing which you cant see underneath Thorps Road Bridge. Its an unusual set up really, as the cross over, as you say is used for both entry and exit from the depot and in a former life access to the Oldham Loop.

Trains enter on the left set of tracks (which is actually a small section of the main Leeds to Manchester railway) which then leads into the fuel road and exit on the right, which is known as the shunt-neck where all the stock is sat.. Manchester North Signal box controls the signals for both. The rusty rails you can see to the far right are the previous 60mph exit of the Oldham Loop which now of course go to nowhere!

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0869.jpg

Great shots as always JDR! Great to finally see tracks being laid here, I never thought I would see the day!

Soupçon, the track layout is exactly as it was before. The Oldham line trains previously crossed over the the crossing which you cant see underneath Thorps Road Bridge. Its an unusual set up really, as the cross over, as you say is used for both entry and exit from the depot and in a former life access to the Oldham Loop.

Trains enter on the left set of tracks (which is actually a small section of the main Leeds to Manchester railway) which then leads into the fuel road and exit on the right, which is known as the shunt-neck where all the stock is sat.. Manchester North Signal box controls the signals for both. The rusty rails you can see to the far right are the previous 60mph exit of the Oldham Loop which now of course go to nowhere!

I have just checked a copy of the Quail maps for that area and they show that line the train is on as being signalled only for trains going towards Manchester so what that unit was doing running wrong line is a mystery. Admittedly the map predates the closure of the Oldham Loop so things might have changed but looking at Google Maps there seems no reason why a train from either Manchester or Ashton couldn't approach the depots on the correct line as far as Thorpe Road.

I think that train is returning to Newton Heath from the Ashton branch curve at Miles Platting. Trains from Victoria can run right road up to the crossover just visible at the bottom of the picture then cross onto the other line to enter either the waste depot or the traction depot. The layout was put in quite some time ago before the fin back bridge was built.

I have just checked a copy of the Quail maps for that area and they show that line the train is on as being signalled only for trains going towards Manchester so what that unit was doing running wrong line is a mystery. Admittedly the map predates the closure of the Oldham Loop so things might have changed but looking at Google Maps there seems no reason why a train from either Manchester or Ashton couldn't approach the depots on the correct line as far as Thorpe Road.

I think that train is returning to Newton Heath from the Ashton branch curve at Miles Platting. Trains from Victoria can run right road up to the crossover just visible at the bottom of the picture then cross onto the other line to enter either the waste depot or the traction depot. The layout was put in quite some time ago before the fin back bridge was built.



Apologies Tony I should have read the complete post before repying. Thanks for the info.

Just found the following on Metrolink Website:

25/03/2011 - 08.54 - No services into Piccadilly station

Metrolink Services

A 6 minute service is operating on the Bury and Altrincham lines.

Due to a technical fault in the Piccadilly area, there is currently no service operating between Piccadilly Gardens and Piccadilly station in either direction.

A shuttle bus service will be operating between Fairfield Street and stand Q at Piccadilly Gardens.

Metrolink apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.

The Eccles line is operating a 12 minute service.

All services run via Piccadilly.


Until further notice, services to MediaCityUK will operate only between 10am and 4pm Monday to Saturday (excluding public holidays). This means that services during peak times will operate direct from Eccles to Piccadilly. This is to allow further modifications to the signalling system which manages trams in and out of MediaCityUK.

Metrolink sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Not to sure what the actual problem at Piccadilly Station is

Slightly off topic but does anybody on here actually know how often trains run to/from the Refuse Destructor Plant in Newton Heath these days

. . . and the underlying principle, imposed by Network Rail & its predecessors, is that trams are not allowed on to the railroads.


Is there any good reason for this ???

Slightly off topic but does anybody on here actually know how often trains run to/from the Refuse Destructor Plant in Newton Heath these days

I thought I read once that it was one per day and always in the afternoon.

Just heard of a contact of mine that apparantly testing is being done today on the Oldham Line as far as Central Park, apparantly OLE's there are now energised, probably wont be long before the OLE's are up all the way to Oldham and I can see testing being done near me in Chadderton

Sounds great M60Lad. :banana:s are coming ......

So is the train forced to enter (the wrong way) onto the main line, only to leave it again a few metres later? Was the track layout the same before the fin-back bridge was built?

Yes, it was, The left hand line is to allow slow trains from Castleton to move out of the way as they brake to turn left at Brewery Junction.

Is there any good reason for this ???

There used to be, prior to AWS, TPWS and the death of unfitted freight trains...

Trams (light rail vehicles) are not built like heavy rail vehicles (the description of the two systems is something of a hint). Your typical 1600 ton agregate train would make paté out of tram, so you have to be certain that the two vehicles will never come into contact. You could make a tram heavy rail crash-worthy, but it would then be a heavy rail vehicle!

Since the Tyne and Wear "shared running" (the section is proved clear before the other system can use it) does this by never having the two sets of vehicles running together (which is only slightly better then not running at all).

Nowadays, with TPWS, the signalling system can enforce a separation, allowing a heavy rail train to safely follow a tram, provided the signalling system can "see" the tram.

Tram following train has always been OK, as line of sight operation is perfectly OK with trams speeds and tram brakes.

Sheffield Rotherham tram train has taken the the time it has because there are deep technical issues with getting the above signalling arrangments to work, and dealing with the basic incompatabilities of Sheffield (low-floor) electric trams with NRs infrastructure (not an issue for Metrolink). As it is, the trams will be special ones with TPWS fitments.

The Rotherham trial will give the approvers of safety cases real information on which to base judgements on risk, so if it all works then I would expect to see a flood of such schemes, particulary on quiet, radial Public Obligation lines around cities with "high floor" tram systems ...

The layout at Thorpes Bridge / Dean Lane is probably due to the disruption the daily bin-liner would cause to a six-minute tram frequency, and the density of moves on and off Newton Heath in the off-peak.

I also heard that testing on the Central Park section was supposed to start last week, so I suspect we aren't far from seeing trams testing on the line - be great to see some pictures if anyone is lucky enough to witness it.

Yes, it was, The left hand line is to allow slow trains from Castleton to move out of the way as they brake to turn left at Brewery Junction.



There used to be, prior to AWS, TPWS and the death of unfitted freight trains...

Trams (light rail vehicles) are not built like heavy rail vehicles (the description of the two systems is something of a hint). Your typical 1600 ton agregate train would make paté out of tram, so you have to be certain that the two vehicles will never come into contact. You could make a tram heavy rail crash-worthy, but it would then be a heavy rail vehicle!

Since the Tyne and Wear "shared running" (the section is proved clear before the other system can use it) does this by never having the two sets of vehicles running together (which is only slightly better then not running at all).

Nowadays, with TPWS, the signalling system can enforce a separation, allowing a heavy rail train to safely follow a tram, provided the signalling system can "see" the tram.

Tram following train has always been OK, as line of sight operation is perfectly OK with trams speeds and tram brakes.

Sheffield Rotherham tram train has taken the the time it has because there are deep technical issues with getting the above signalling arrangments to work, and dealing with the basic incompatabilities of Sheffield (low-floor) electric trams with NRs infrastructure (not an issue for Metrolink). As it is, the trams will be special ones with TPWS fitments.

The Rotherham trial will give the approvers of safety cases real information on which to base judgements on risk, so if it all works then I would expect to see a flood of such schemes, particulary on quiet, radial Public Obligation lines around cities with "high floor" tram systems ...

The layout at Thorpes Bridge / Dean Lane is probably due to the disruption the daily bin-liner would cause to a six-minute tram frequency, and the density of moves on and off Newton Heath in the off-peak.

:cheers: JL most informative!

I also heard that testing on the Central Park section was supposed to start last week, so I suspect we aren't far from seeing trams testing on the line - be great to see some pictures if anyone is lucky enough to witness it.

Get down there Sat night with a camera then........:wink2:

Thanks for the replies guys.

Could someone comment on the apparent lack of buffers on Metrolink?

Where the tracks have been severed on the heavy rail side there are buffers.

On the light rail side - nothing.

The design might need to be different, but why is there nothing there?

I have just checked a copy of the Quail maps for that area and they show that line the train is on as being signalled only for trains going towards Manchester so what that unit was doing running wrong line is a mystery. Admittedly the map predates the closure of the Oldham Loop so things might have changed but looking at Google Maps there seems no reason why a train from either Manchester or Ashton couldn't approach the depots on the correct line as far as Thorpe Road.

I think that train is returning to Newton Heath from the Ashton branch curve at Miles Platting. Trains from Victoria can run right road up to the crossover just visible at the bottom of the picture then cross onto the other line to enter either the waste depot or the traction depot. The layout was put in quite some time ago before the fin back bridge was built.

Still, the Ashton branch curve is a duel line! So the only reason it would be on the wrong line running to the depot would be a points problem. As you come off the Asthton Curve your put onto down line to Man Vic then you switch over onto the up line to Rochdale. So if it was a points problem the DMU has gone into the down loop which is also a running line for the Ashton Curve in the pic you can see it come back off the wrong way to the depot.

Could someone comment on the apparent lack of buffers on Metrolink?

Where the tracks have been severed on the heavy rail side there are buffers.

On the light rail side - nothing.

The design might need to be different, but why is there nothing there?

My guess is the Network Rail line is still active, but the Metrolink line isn't (other than construction), so no need for buffers.

Its something thats puzzled me before as theres no buffers at the Eccles Metrolink stop where the rails just end but there is at Media City (specially designed to match its buffer shape and height) though there they may be afraid of hitting the wall.

There are buffers at alty and on the timperley turnback too!

Its something thats puzzled me before as theres no buffers at the Eccles Metrolink stop where the rails just end but there is at Media City (specially designed to match its buffer shape and height) though there they may be afraid of hitting the wall.

Buffer stops aren't a requirement for tramways but some form of overrun protection is. At Eccles under the surfacing at the end of the line there is a length of soft material a bit like a sand drag or one of the lanes provided on long road descents to arrest lorries. Buffers can become an obstruction to pedestrians in street areas.

The ORR Guidance on Tramways has the following statement.

TERMINATING TRACKS
146 Where a tram track terminates, arrangements should be made for a tram that overruns
the normal limit of operations to be brought to a halt or contained safely. The arrangements
may include one or more of buffer stops, sand drags, soft macadam surfacing over the
rails, energy-absorbing architectural features such as large planters, or other appropriate
measures. Selection of the arrangements for a location should be on the basis of
performance, the risks arising from an overrun, and suitability for the surrounding environment.
The means chosen should discourage pedestrians from lingering in an overrun area.

I'm old enough to remember the old North Station terminus in Blackpool (closed 1963). There the tracks simply petered out right in the middle of the road. I don't think anyone ever thought anything about it.

I suppose modern trams are heavier, and more like trains in many ways.

There are buffers at alty and on the timperley turnback too!


Unless they've changed them, the Alty ones are fixed and are incompatible with the trams - worse than none at all (and they currently belong to Network Rail ...)

Unless they've changed them, the Alty ones are fixed and are incompatible with the trams - worse than none at all (and they currently belong to Network Rail ...)

All the terminal points on Phase 1 including Timperley, Millgate at Victoria and Piccadilly had purpose built stops. They had timber blocks to match the tram couplers on either a normal rail built stop or concrete blocks in the case of Piccadilly. Altrincham and Bury I think retained the original BR stops modified with the timber blocks to match the tram couplers. When the Altrincham Line reopened after one of the blockades and the refurbishments new buffer stops were provided to GMPTE's spec. The timber blocks were not fitted as they no longer served a purpose as the T68s were being modified with hidden couplers and the M5000s all had concealed couplers. There was debate about the new buffers not being heavy rail compliant in the rare occasions of perhaps heavy rail engineering vehicles being brought onto the system. The problem is centred on the new walkway around the back of the buffers. However there are great big OLE anchor masts right behind them.

Eccles did used to have buffers but they were removed, Cant say ive seen any sign of a sandtrap however.

I'm old enough to remember the old North Station terminus in Blackpool (closed 1963). There the tracks simply petered out right in the middle of the road. I don't think anyone ever thought anything about it.

I suppose modern trams are heavier, and more like trains in many ways.

That was exactly what I was thinking when I reading the earlier posts. Personally when it comes to the end of the line I like a loop that you get at Fleetwood and Starr Gate.

26/03/2011 - 16.28 Altrincham, Eccles and Bury services
Metrolink Services
Due to an earlier road traffic accident in the city centre some passengers may experience delays.

We hope to have services running as normal soon. Please keep checking this page for updates.

Metrolink apologises for any inconvenience caused.
^^^^

Not much progress on the Didsbury line but a couple of photo updates nonetheless!

Didsbury Village station:

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20line%2026032011/01.jpg

Cutting leading to the Didsbury tunnel - they seem to have created a ramp up the filled-in part - any ideas why? Is it to be able to start excavating the tunnel from its mouth-southwards?

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20line%2026032011/02.jpg
http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20line%2026032011/03.jpg

Still love this view even though no change here :(

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20line%2026032011/04.jpg

West Didsbury station - what are the big round things with numbers on them?

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20line%2026032011/05.jpg

Finally, Withington station - platform foundations! Yay!

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20line%2026032011/06.jpg
http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Didsbury%20line%2026032011/07.jpg

That's all for now!

as chris kamara would say "its unbelievable jeff!".

on a more serious note, i sometimes play football at hough end, but live in salford, so a short walk to castlefield and then the tram all the way there, without having to walk to the ritz to get the bus will make life much easier. how many more people and how many car journeys a year will stories similar to this save?

Eccles did used to have buffers but they were removed, Cant say ive seen any sign of a sandtrap however.

I don't think there were ever buffers at Eccles, I remember discussion with HMRI regarding the type of arrestor to be fitted and the the best way to provide the 'sand trap'. This was before the line opened.

The 'sandtrap' is buried under the surfacing. The idea is that the tram sinks into it to retard it. It's relatively shallow to allow for easy rerailing.

I love those pictures of East Dids, martin - great to see things coming into being on Phase 3b (a) - 12 months ago we wouldn't have dared imagine it!

There was once a buffer stop in the middle of a street called Salford on the old Blackburn system. (Blackburn has a lot of streets named by a single word - Salford, Eanam, Redlam, Limbrick etc) Forty-odd years ago, my parents were licensees of the 'Globe Inn' at Higher Eanam, a few hundred yards up the line from these photos. Apparently I travelled on this tram route as a babe in arms, but I don't remember it as the system closed when I was 18 months old, damn it! I love the towering elegance of these green octagonal monsters, they must have made an extraordinarily imposing and dignified progress through the grimy streets. Alas, none was preserved :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0001-31.jpg

Photos c/- Jim Halsall: "Blackburn Tram Rides" 1999 (ISBN 1 872895 47 6 - Landy Publishing, 3 Staining Rise, Blackpool FY3 0BU)

:banana:

Eccles did used to have buffers but they were removed, Cant say ive seen any sign of a sandtrap however.

This is a picture I took last year of the end of the line, wasn't any protection really that I recall.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/5120865646_3b444801bb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5120865646/)
Eccles (Metrolink) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5120865646/) by Mackenzie London (http://www.flickr.com/people/mackenzieblu/), on Flickr

There used to be a set of standard railway buffers just there.

not sure if this is the right thread but vegetation clearance and other work has started on altrincham road in baguley :)

This is a picture I took last year of the end of the line, wasn't any protection really that I recall.


Is it my imagination or can I see a "shadow" of rails under the first few feet of tarmac?

Nope, not your imagination thats where the buffers used to be.

This is what it looked like while under construction before opening (and before the buffers), you will notice the horizontal drain is also missing.

http://s0.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/01/57/98/1579868_cbd4f4ad.jpg

This is from 2004, you will notice the drain still hasnt been added but there is what appears to be a sandtrap there then.

http://www.thetrams.co.uk/metrolink/pictures/000873/image/original.jpg

It was at somepoint after this they were added but removed by 2009 I believe. Actually thinking about it the buffers may have been temporary while they rebuilt the sandtrap and just left there for a few years.

Is it my imagination or can I see a "shadow" of rails under the first few feet of tarmac?

As JL said, soft macadam over the rails is an acceptable alternative to buffers

West Didsbury station - what are the big round things with numbers on them?

Something like this maybe?

http://www.skanska.co.uk/upload/Sevices/Piling/Datasheets/Bored%20Pile%20Retaining%20Walls%20Datahseet.pdf

Isn't there the same at Ancoats Underpass?

As JL said, soft macadam over the rails is an acceptable alternative to buffers

Yes, my query was in response to the post saying that there was no obvious protection there.

Haha is that really Eccles station, end of the line and all that? I've never been but I had visions of some fully sheltered, clean effort. Not some bus stop with a tarmac ramp:lol: Horrendous.

Haha is that really Eccles station, end of the line and all that? I've never been but I had visions of some fully sheltered, clean effort. Not some bus stop with a tarmac ramp:lol: Horrendous.

In reality it's not so bad, it sort of blends in with its surroundings rather than sticking out like a sore thumb. Not obvious from the pictures but it is next to the bus stops (I hesitate to call it a bus station) which are also open.

Yeah I thought it might just be a bad photo. No discredit to the photographer.

Yeah I thought it might just be a bad photo. No discredit to the photographer.

Not really a bad photo, just out of context, not enough of the surroundings shown to really show it off.

Theres a nice Wetherspoons opposite, but its a really confined site and the Metrolink stop is treated really as just another bus dock.

Thanks to Martin for the Didsbury update a page back :)

It seems that at both Didsbury Village & West Didsbury stops, these 'ramps' have appeared & right up to street level at both set of bridges. I think they may be there for plant access, as there's nowhere else for diggers, etc to access the 'track', as it's so built up & the route is in a fairly deep cutting.

I have no idea what the round sandy looking things with nos. on them are at West Didsbury though?!?!

This is a picture I took last year of the end of the line, wasn't any protection really that I recall.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/5120865646_3b444801bb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5120865646/)
Eccles (Metrolink) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5120865646/) by Mackenzie London (http://www.flickr.com/people/mackenzieblu/), on Flickr

Mac glad u posted this photograph...I am always appalled at the amount of litter and rubbish at the ECC stop...it really is disgusting, I am also surprised that Metrolink allow it to get into such a disgraceful state and also for Morrisons on immediately on the right on the photograph as a food seller also allow this to happen...:ohno::ohno:

Yeah I thought it might just be a bad photo. No discredit to the photographer.

Not really a bad photo, just out of context, not enough of the surroundings shown to really show it off.

To be fair it was a nasty day (rained a hell of alot that weekend I visited) so it looks worse than it looks. The focus of the picture was the way the track end rather than the station, hence me posting it on here. (no offence taken either)

To be honest I was surprised Eccles wasn't something abit bigger but as said before me, it fits in well to the local area and there isn't really that much room.

Mac glad u posted this photograph...I am always appalled at the amount of litter and rubbish at the ECC stop...it really is disgusting, I am also surprised that Metrolink allow it to get into such a disgraceful state and also for Morrisons on immediately on the right on the photograph as a food seller also allow this to happen...:ohno::ohno:

You think that's bad? Should see London stations tho I haven't really noticed the same with Croydon Tramlink, maybe thats because of the low platforms? Easiler to blow away the rubbish?

Had another sortie across Ashton Moss on Saturday afternoon. Quite a bit of progress to see. The Site Compound Office Block is well advanced and a start has been made on the route across the large roundabout near the Leisure Park.

Site compound and offices.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000894a.jpg

Ashton Moss roundabout
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000907a.jpg

Sheldon Arms looking west
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000890a.jpg

Lord Sheldon Way looking east
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000899a.jpg

Behind the Snipe.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000885a.jpg

also walked through from Edge Lane to Ashton. There's not much new but I took a few photos.

Edge Lane
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000855a.jpg

By the Jolly Carter
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000866a.jpg

Droylsden Centre
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000875a.jpg

I went down to look at what was in progress at Piccadilly this morning. Wiring was in progress across Sheffield Street with wire across the street on both lines and the siding terminating a few poles east of Sheffield Street. The rails still await connection.

Wiring works under way
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000911a-1.jpg

Working under the entry span.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000912a.jpg

Turnback siding with wiring temporarily supported
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000917a-1.jpg

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000915a-1.jpg

Then walked a short way up to Merrill Street taking a couple of shots.

Ancoat Underpass Western Portal
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000923a.jpg

New Islington Stop
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000925a.jpg

There used to be a set of standard railway buffers just there.

My memory is obviously failing. Too much beer and whisky lol!

Ace photos of the East Mcr Line guys! Can almost see a tram coming out of that portal at the back of Piccadilly!
Went to Jackson's Boat after a family outing today, while we were there had a little nosey, just a couple of cameraphone shots:

Looking towards the M60

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Airport%20line%2027032011/01.jpg

Looking the other way towards the Mersey

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Airport%20line%2027032011/02.jpg

Some more work on Hardy Lane

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Airport%20line%2027032011/03.jpg

Some bad-ass holes in the road!

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Airport%20line%2027032011/04.jpg

Was excited to see big Metrolink signs!

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Airport%20line%2027032011/05.jpg

But less excited to get closer and see EPIC SPELLING FAIL :-(

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Airport%20line%2027032011/06.jpg

Thanks for those pics Freel07, nice to see the Ancoats part of the line taking shape.

Thanks for those pics Freel07, nice to see the Ancoats part of the line taking shape.

I had hoped to be able to get a few more views between Sheffield St and Merrill St but it is pretty well fenced off with solid screening. I didn't have enough time to have a look from the canal bank. Does anyone know whether the view is clearer from that side along the Pollard St section?

At Piccadilly I tried to see where the section insulators have been installed to divide the Ashton Line from the City section. I guess they are just in the entrance where the men are working in the second photo.

[QUOTE=martin2345uk;75016101]Ace photos of the East Mcr Line guys! Can almost see a tram coming out of that portal at the back of Piccadilly!
Went to Jackson's Boat after a family outing today, while we were there had a little nosey, just a couple of cameraphone shots:

Nice to see a solid start on the Airport Line now, shame about the spelling.

Great photos guys. Amazing to see so much progress.

Ashton Moss is likely to be called Ashton Moss for a reason.
How thick is the sub-ballast that has been laid and rollered likely to be?
The track goes past facilities such as the Snipe.
Is the track likely to be grooved rail from Droylsden to Ashton, to remove a supply of projectiles, and also to lessen the risk of subsidence across the Moss?

To return to the buffer issue...

I seem to remember buffers resembling those used on heavy rail at the line termination in the Undercroft. Am I correct? I realise that these now have probably been removed.

Whilst Freel has revealed the regulatory framework for light rail buffers, that does not help me currently conceptualise what will be put at the line end at the Dean Lane break with heavy rail.

Network Rail put conventional buffers on their side, on a siding unlikely ever to see use.

I would submit that a rose-draped planter, say, whilst within the regulations, is inadequate for the light rail side.

What type of buffer stop is likely to be used? Something like those at MediaCityUK?

Ashton Moss is likely to be called Ashton Moss for a reason.
How thick is the sub-ballast that has been laid and rollered likely to be?
The track goes past facilities such as the Snipe.
Is the track likely to be grooved rail from Droylsden to Ashton, to remove a supply of projectiles, and also to lessen the risk of subsidence across the Moss?

The Moss is called Ashton Moss for the reason that it was a peat bog as you suggest. However it was drained many years ago and the M60 crosses it at a much lower level than Lord Sheldon Way. I am guessing that the track will be ballasted sleeper track across this stretch since MPT have established a ballast stockpile nearby at Guide Bridge. The roads across the Moss haven't suffered from subsidence and there was little evidence of any peat when the track formation was being excavated. There is a substantial depth of stone in that track bed which seems to lie on the sub base laid for the adjacent road.

The section from Droylsden to just short of the Snipe pub will be grooved street track as it is in the highway. The question of vandalism is a good one and is the reason for the 'grasscrete' track on the Eccles line which was originally specified as ballasted but on the advice of the local authority was changed to grass track.

To return to the buffer issue...

I seem to remember buffers resembling those used on heavy rail at the line termination in the Undercroft. Am I correct? I realise that these now have probably been removed.

Whilst Freel has revealed the regulatory framework for light rail buffers, that does not help me currently conceptualise what will be put at the line end at the Dean Lane break with heavy rail.

Network Rail put conventional buffers on their side, on a siding unlikely ever to see use.

I would submit that a rose-draped planter, say, whilst within the regulations, is inadequate for the light rail side.

What type of buffer stop is likely to be used? Something like those at MediaCityUK?

The bufferstops at Piccadilly were large concrete blocks with timber pads to match the tram autocouplers mounted on them. It may be that something like the Altrincham stops will be put in at Dean Lane although given the location I cannot see why that spur exists unless there is some possibility of a connection at some time.

Thank you.

duplicate

Did anyone see any of the Central Park line testing this weekend. I hear there were movements between River Irk the area towards Central Park.

Some great pictures all over the place this weekend - three or four of us had a good tour around as well, the weather and all these exciting developments brought us all out.

. . . Yes, Freel there was due to be testing this evening up to Central Park, according to one of the linesmen there.

Here's a couple more shots of stringing the wires out of Piccadilly :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1012.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1013.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1017.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1020.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1023.jpg

They are certainly moving fast over this bit, including the Y-junctions :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1025.jpg

At this rate they will be heading down here by tomorrow :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1027.jpg
:banana:

The Picc closure was a bit of a fuss today.

Metrolink did say that the replacement buses would be calling at Piccadilly Gardens stop Q (Portland St), although I noticed they were actually calling at stop G (near Primark!). Bit of terrible delivery of information yet again...

Was that you down on Jackson's bridge this affo martin? We thought we clocked a couple of skyscrapersnappers . . .

On the Airport line, the bridge over the Mersey will actually be quite a way to the South-East of the footbridge and Jackson's Boat, just at the spot painted blue, where two more skyscrapersnappers are leaning on the fence :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0995.jpg

Looking North-East from that spot, clearance has opened up a view right back to Hardy Farm. I am pretty sure this alignment was previously dense undergrowth, virtually inaccessible, so unless I am wrong it looks to me as though the route will not encroach upon the open plain of Chorlton meadows after all? :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0994.jpg

We think that the blue-painted things are perhaps to warn of the gas underground grid on the line of route? This is from the same spot again, looking South-West across the river :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0996.jpg

Jumping across the river and looking back, you can still see through to Hardy Farm, and we wondered how high the new bridge will have to be to avoid the foot and cycle paths etc along the riverbank :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0999.jpg

Turning round once again, another swathe has been cut through what used to be Hole 3 of the golf course :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1004.jpg

Rifle Road used to be very leafy, but you can now see right through to the motorway :-

Last Year:-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/100_4709.jpg

And To-day :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1007.jpg

Arriving at the location of Sale Water Park tram stop, they will have to work hard to make this as pretty as it was before! :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1009.jpg

Unless they erect one of those horrible high fences, at least passing passengers will have a nice view of the golf course :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1010.jpg

From Sale Water Park now you can still see all the way back to Hardy Farm :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1008.jpg

And back at the Farm meadows, now that I realise the Metrolink line will cross this scene further back behind the dark trees, it looks like my favourite little white bush will be saved after all!! :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0992.jpg

Great photos JDR!!

I was indeed at Jackson's Bridge that day, but I think a bit later than you... for a second I thought that was me leaning against the fence! :)

That little white bush scares me for some reason, gives me a chill whenever I look over and see it :-/

Am I right in thinking that the 2CC line will need to be up and running before all the Phase 3 extensions are finished...??

Great photos JDR!!

I was indeed at Jackson's Bridge that day, but I think a bit later than you... for a second I thought that was me leaning against the fence! :)

That little white bush scares me for some reason, gives me a chill whenever I look over and see it :-/

Am I right in thinking that the 2CC line will need to be up and running before all the Phase 3 extensions are finished...??

I thought that, but someone on here said the airport line could turn back at Cornbrook if necessary before the 2CC is complete.

Just found the following on GMPTE website:

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) is advising residents that the overhead power lines on part of the Metrolink East Manchester line have been switched on, on Sunday 27 March.

The overhead lines will be electrically powered from Sheffield Street to Eastland's Stadium and up to the ASDA Goods entrance as part of work to install and test the equipment.

The East Manchester Metrolink line is due to open in spring 2012 and will have eight new stops at New Islington, Holt Town, Eastland's City Stadium, Velopark, Clayton Hall, Edge Lane, Cemetery Road and Droylsden. Work to extend Metrolink from Droylsden to Ashton-under-Lyne is already underway and due to open in 2014.

Looks like aswell as the Oldham Line as far as Central Park testing will be starting shortly on this stretch so we might be seeing :banana::banana::banana:s on this stretch shortly

Hi

Couple of thing I found on Metrolink website

Overnight working near Trafford Depot
Work on the new South Manchester Metrolink line to St. Werburghs Road is near completion.

We will shortly be carrying out some overnight works near to the new Trafford Depot and along the new and existing Metrolink lines.

The work will take place from 6pm to 5am from 29th March 2011 until 1st April 2011.

This work will include the welding of track joints with the use of a rail grinder and saw. During this period you may experience some noise and we apologise in advance for any disturbance this work may cause.

This out of hours working has been agreed in advance with your local authority.


Oldham Town Centre construction update
Work is under way on a new Metrolink extension into Oldham town centre, which is expected to be completed by spring 2014. I am writing to provide with you an update on upcoming construction, including utility diversions, along the route.

King Street / Union Street Junction:

Work is due to start shortly to divert utilities away from the route of the new tram line. Preliminary works are currently expected to start from 26th March. This will involve some lane closures and traffic management measures to enable street furniture, such as the traffic signals, to be re-sited within this area. The main diversion works are due to start from mid April. In order for this work to take place, King Street is planned to temporarily close between Union Street and Barn Street from 18th April for approximately five weeks. Traffic exiting from Spindles car park and the Police Station will be required to travel in a northerly direction along King Street.

Once King Street has re-opened, Union Street West will then be closed at its junction with King Street for approximately four weeks. After this initial phase is completed, diversion work will be ongoing in the King Street / Union Street junction area. This will involve some lane closures and traffic management measures. During the road closures, signed diversions will be in place.

Oldham Mumps Roundabout:

Work to divert utilities is also underway at Oldham Mumps. As part of this work, there will be a partial closure of the roundabout at the Bottom o'th Moor. This is currently anticipated to take place in mid-May for approximately four days. Access into and from Bottom o th Moor will be maintained, however, local diversions will be signed via Cross Street. There will be further works in this area that will result in temporary lane closures as the project progresses.

Additional works are also taking place along the route as follows:
Featherstall Road South bridge: Utility diversions are currently being carried out involving temporary traffic signals in place.
Middleton Road and Winterbottom Street:
Various utility works are underway including some weekend working. Some traffic management measures will be in place.
Manchester Street roundabout: Utilities diversions and survey work are currently being carried out. This will involve some lane closures.
John Street: Trial holes and ground investigations are being carried out along with utility diversions. Construction works on the bridge to take the tram under John Street will start later this year. Further information will be provided nearer the time.
St Marys Way: Utility diversions are currently being carried out at St Marys Way. This work will be completed in sections along the street. This involves some lane closure and the temporary closure of the bus stops in the sections where the work is being carried out. The nearest stops are at Central Bus Station. At Egerton Street, this will involve putting in place contraflow of traffic and three-way temporary traffic signals. This is currently planned to start from the end of March for 4 to 5 weeks.
Mumps: Diversion works are being carried out just to the north of the roundabout. This includes the narrowing of the carriageway in this area. We will also need to carry out further work to divert utilities at the Yorkshire Street, Union Street, and Prince Street junction. NG Gas are currently working within this area. Further information will be provided as work progresses.
Mumps roundabout: Utility enabling work is being carried out in the centre of Oldham Mumps. The subway at the roundabout is currently closed to pedestrians and cycles.
Bottom o th Moor (from Oldham): Utility diversions are being carried out involving lane closures.

We will continue to provide more information as work progresses. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank you for your patience while we construct your new Metrolink line.


Also Good Picture to Everyone who took them over weekend Cheers

Firstly, I'l send my apologies for not being able to meet up with you this weekend JdR. I got dragged into work again. Hope you had a good day out.

Great photos this weekend (as always) and is good to see that the first part of the East Manc line is looking close to opening. I think I will be living along there from June/July onwards so will be good to have a good link between town, my apartment, and the local Asda at Velopark :)


Am I right in thinking that the 2CC line will need to be up and running before all the Phase 3 extensions are finished...??


I thought that, but someone on here said the airport line could turn back at Cornbrook if necessary before the 2CC is complete.

I think that without 2CC, the city centre (esp Mosley St) wouldn't be able to take the traffic from all of the lines. I think it is needed before 3B opens. I don't know if a time limit has been stated for when 2CC is needed. I would say it is needed before 3B is completed.

Just found the following on GMPTE website:

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) is advising residents that the overhead power lines on part of the Metrolink East Manchester line have been switched on, on Sunday 27 March.

The overhead lines will be electrically powered from Sheffield Street to Eastland's Stadium and up to the ASDA Goods entrance as part of work to install and test the equipment.

The East Manchester Metrolink line is due to open in spring 2012 and will have eight new stops at New Islington, Holt Town, Eastland's City Stadium, Velopark, Clayton Hall, Edge Lane, Cemetery Road and Droylsden. Work to extend Metrolink from Droylsden to Ashton-under-Lyne is already underway and due to open in 2014.

Looks like aswell as the Oldham Line as far as Central Park testing will be starting shortly on this stretch so we might be seeing :banana::banana::banana:s on this stretch shortly

What..! Methinks they've got their wires crossed - there wasn't even any poles installed just last Wednesday (23rd) when I took this....

http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc205/loweskid/Skyscrapercity/metrolink.jpg

Overnight working near Trafford Depot
Work on the new South Manchester Metrolink line to St. Werburghs Road is near completion.

We will shortly be carrying out some overnight works near to the new Trafford Depot and along the new and existing Metrolink lines.

The work will take place from 6pm to 5am from 29th March 2011 until 1st April 2011.

This work will include the welding of track joints with the use of a rail grinder and saw. During this period you may experience some noise and we apologise in advance for any disturbance this work may cause.

Does this mean finally connecting up the new line to the existing line?? Yay!! Maybe some proper driver training can start then?? :-D

Couple of phone snaps from West Dids Lapwing Lane stop this evening

http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn252/Cityplanner/IMG_00631.jpg?t=1301338689

http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn252/Cityplanner/IMG_00641.jpg?t=1301338712

http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn252/Cityplanner/IMG_00621.jpg?t=1301338731

Seriously, the mysteries at Lapwing lane continue, what the deuce are they are they up to!?

:lol::lol:

Theres now a Manchester Metrolink iPhone app, not sure if its official but its promising line status updates as a coming soon feature

From the red lines I guess their sawing off the tops of the piles?

Nistromo it is amateur developed but given official blessing, programmed by a couple of kids its just a timetable comparison app.

From the red lines I guess their sawing off the tops of the piles?

What are these piles for? Shoring up the sides of the cutting? Won't they be exposed once they remove the filling from the cutting once more? I don't *get* engineering at all sadly! :(

Stopping subsidence or as a retaining wall.

Seriously, the mysteries at Lapwing lane continue, what the deuce are they are they up to!?

:lol::lol:

The piles will be to retain the cutting walls where the formation is widened for the new tram stop. The existing cutting sides will be cut back to get sufficient width for the platforms and will therefore need supporting. I guess all will be revealed before too long.

What are these piles for? Shoring up the sides of the cutting? Won't they be exposed once they remove the filling from the cutting once more? I don't *get* engineering at all sadly! :(

They will be revealed but may be covered by walling or something. They will obviously go down quite deep below trackbed level.

Theres now a Manchester Metrolink iPhone app, not sure if its official but its promising line status updates as a coming soon feature

http://www.mxdata.co.uk/products/metrolink.aspx

I guess you mean that app...

Android: installed.
1 review.

Early days.

Hello all.

Been watching these forums with interest for the past few months, and particularly enjoying all the photos posted, and thought I'd join up in case I can contribute (not that likely, but you never know!).

Anyway, I work near the Airport, so hopefully I will be able to supply photos of the area once work begins in earnest.

Oh, and just downloaded the Android version of the Metrolink app, looks interesting!

I just got the iPhone version of the app, looks nice but would like the ability to zoom out of the map a bit more! Seems promising though...

Welcome The BowkerValeKid - looking forward to some pix from down your way!

The old and the new. One thing I always enjoyed fom the old tram pictures was the way they were allowed to slice straight through a roundabout, while the other traffic had to go around in circles. This example was at Brownhill, Blackburn :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1097.jpg
c/- "Trams in North Lancashire" - Manchester Tramway Museum Society & Online Video 1997

If memory serves, this type of arrangement still happens to-day at Wolverhampton St George's on the Midland Metro, and it looks like Manchester will soon get its very own version at Ashton Moss (but without a stop in the middle!):-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0965.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0967.jpg

I guess the lights will have to allow for a double unit to go through in one go. Although I don't think many doubles will run on Ashton just yet - the only one I can remember on the Eccles line was on the first day, 6 December 1999 :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0003-14.jpg

The turn of the Millenium was also the only time I remember trams showing the destination "Broadway" :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0004-10.jpg

Eccles was not quite finished yet :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0005-4.jpg

But the breakthrough came six months later :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0002-27.jpg

On the way, the new t68a's passed the old Salford Corporation Tramways depot at Weaste, where remnants of the old track almost met up with the new :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0001-32.jpg
Pictures c/- 'Tramways & Urban Transit' LRTA monthly

The last Salford tram ran on 31 March 1947. Most tramways would have closed quite a few years earlier, but many were granted a reprieve for the duration of the war, under such slogans as "Save rubber - use the trams!" :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0006-5.jpg
c/- "Salford's Tramways, Part Two" - Edward Gray, Foxline 1999 ISBN 1 870119 55 X

Some lines which did, however, get the chop before the war, were the joint services between Manchester and Ashton-under Lyne. These finished on Ashton New Road on 30 July 1938, on the conversion to trolleybuses, when all Ashton's remaining trams went for scrap at Hyde Road depot. It seems likely that most of the rails were also scrapped for the war effort, but as posted previously, a short length was left on the former turnback at Manor Road, Edge Lane. Bits of this headshunt have been revealed from time to time by the current works, and to-day a bigger section of the old pointwork re-emerged for a few hours only at the end of Windsor Road, before it was severed and removed :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1095.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1113.jpg

Again, the old nearly met the new! :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1115.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1104.jpg

Tramway historian and railway author Ian Yearsley, in his erudite and entertaining magnum opus "The Manchester Tramways" (Transport Publishing Company 1988 revised edition, ISBN 086317 144 3) reminisced about the conversions from tram to trolleybuses in those days :-

" - Trolleybus wiring began to appear, and every other evening I would spend half an hour on my way home from school watching the work. Each evening there was something new; first the spanwires and hangers, then ears, and finally shining copper trolley wire. It was the first really big overhead job for some years, and I watched fascinated at the pattern which grew up in the sky. I remember particularly looking up at the junction work . . . at the time when all the pointwork had all been strung up on spans but not yet attached to the running wires; the whole network was held together by clamps and turnbuckles, and there were temporary spans, half-finished splices, and anchor wires with frayed ends in every direction"

At Edge Lane, the Manor Road tram headshunt was replaced by a trolleybus turning circle in the overhead, seen here in 1966 :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0007-6.jpg

picture c/- Michael Eyre & Chris Heaps "The Manchester Trolleybus" Ian Allen 2008, ISBN 0 7110 3245 9
Howard Piltz (ibid) tells us that " . . the Mayne's AEC Regent motor bus, inbound on the 46 from Greenside Lane to the city, is coming out of Manor Road, passing the Transport Department's mock half-timbered Edge Lane traffic and parcels office. The lights are green for the trolleybus, but Mayne had much local support and some passengers will allow BUT 1330 to pass and wait for 'the Mayne's'." The parcels office and the row of houses behind it were demolished in about 2006 to make way for Metrolink's Edge Lane station.

Ian Yearsley's vivid description of "shining new copper trolley wire" also reminded me of Freel's pictures at the weekend, showing just such a thing now coming out of the back of Piccadilly :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1020.jpg

. . . and in this time of similar new developments, I like to think the enthusiasm expressed by Ian all those years ago is perhaps current once again on these pages? The latest news headline on the GMPTE website still only gives an opening date of Droylsden Spring 2012, while at the same time warning that the overhead is now going live as far as Velopark! But surely they wouldn't do that fully twelve months in advance . . .?

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000915a-1.jpg

. . . would they?
:banana:

The latest news headline on the GMPTE website still only gives an opening date of Droylsden Spring 2012, while at the same time warning that the overhead is now going live as far as Velopark! But surely they wouldn't do that fully twelve months in advance . . . . . would they?
:banana:

No, someone's got their (overhead) wires crossed. As of last Wednesday there weren't even any support poles at the Sportcity stop - see my photo in post 7610 (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=75079003&postcount=7610).

2001 & 2004 as a double unit.

Never seen the 2xxx trams as doubles before! :banana:

Johnny that was an absolutely amazing post, I loved it!!!

Wonder if they will have similar opening fanfare for the new lines??

Johnny that was an absolutely amazing post, I loved it!!!

Wonder if they will have similar opening fanfare for the new lines??

I agree, a fascinating post, thanks Johnny.

I hope they do have future line openings like this - would make it feel more exciting instead of just Purdy standing at St.W's and saying "I declare this extension open" :lol:

I hope we do see more doubles on the Eccles line in the future - I am pretty sure I have seen a double at Ladywell during one of the recent Eccles line closures. Not that it needs any doubles, that is...a tram on the Eccles line usually has around half its seats empty! But it would be nice to see a few football specials running on that line.

:banana::banana:

Sorry if it's already been posted.

Name change to the ....... stop?


News Releases Monday, 28 March 2011Switch on of the East Manchester line overhead equipment
Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) is advising residents that the overhead power lines on part of the Metrolink East Manchester line have been switched on, on Sunday 27 March.
The overhead lines will be electrically powered from Sheffield Street to Eastland's Stadium and up to the ASDA Goods entrance as part of work to install and test the equipment.
The East Manchester Metrolink line is due to open in spring 2012 and will have eight new stops at New Islington, Holt Town, Eastland's City Stadium, Velopark, Clayton Hall, Edge Lane, Cemetery Road and Droylsden. Work to extend Metrolink from Droylsden to Ashton-under-Lyne is already underway and due to open in 2014.
Further information about Metrolink is available by contacting the Metrolink Stakeholder Team on 0161 244 1555 (office hours) or email future.metrolink@gmpte.gov.uk. To report urgent issues or incidents relating to this work please call the site representative on 01724 878399 (24hr).

Mentioned last week when they announced the Stadium would now be carrying the name of a sponsor.

I wonder, are the old preserved trams capable of running on the new infrastructure? Or are the voltages different or gauges different etc. It would be interesting to see an oldie running on the new stuff. Might interfere with the roof at Central Park though (actually, there is a throught, are the old ones too tall!?)

I wonder, are the old preserved trams capable of running on the new infrastructure? Or are the voltages different or gauges different etc. It would be interesting to see an oldie running on the new stuff. Might interfere with the roof at Central Park though (actually, there is a throught, are the old ones too tall!?)

As a simple answer... Yes. Try fitting a double decker bus into Picc Undercroft. The Pantograph on the current trams is pretty compressed when it goes into it at London Road.

Yes they can or yes it is not possible? A shame, would have been a great sentiment and something to run during the summer holidays as a heritage attraction (timetable allowing).

http://www.mxdata.co.uk/products/metrolink.aspx

I guess you mean that app...

Did anyone else notice that on the ad theres the map with 2CC on it?

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5256/5572136714_451dc7fc8b_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5572136714/)
Metrolink iPhone App (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5572136714/) by Mackenzie London (http://www.flickr.com/people/mackenzieblu/), on Flickr

Does this map make it into the app?

Yes they can or yes it is not possible? A shame, would have been a great sentiment and something to run during the summer holidays as a heritage attraction (timetable allowing).

Depends where they came from, some old systems used smaller voltages like 550/600v but in theory with the right transformer they could run yes just like classic trams run in Blackpool.

Welcome The BowkerValeKid - looking forward to some pix from down your way!

[

Firstly thats a great post Johnny.

Yes Midland Metro does have a similar arrangement At Wolverhampton St Georges. It will be interesting to see the arrangement at Ashton Moss, it will surely be a single traffic light controlled crossing.

Regarding the remaining first generation track at Edge Lane, quite a bit of similar track was recovered from the City during Phase 1 construction and some was taken to Heaton Park for the museum line along with a significant length from the Cricket Ground siding at Old Trafford.

Finally how about this for the first double on the Eccles Line?

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/Picture1.jpg

Taken during the first powered test run to Broadway in summer 1999 (can't remember the date), I think it was 2001 (un-numbered) escorted by 1014. Railtrack would not allow 2001 to run alongside their infrastructure as it hadn't passed the EMC tests, so 1014 was used to tow it to Exchange Quay. However 1014 wasn't allowed to run beyond there without a police escort as it had no bogie skirts or coupling cover so it was escorted over to the crossover at Salford Quays and back to Exchange Quay by the police before 2001 made a test run to Broadway and back. The pair then ran back to Queens Road with 1014 towing 2001. I remember us catching a couple of car drivers out a Ordsall Lane on the way back, they had stopped in the box junction and were somewhat surprised by the appearance of 2001 bearing down on them and even more so when two coppers bailed out one each side and 'had a word' with them about box junctions.

I may have blown my cover now!

Yes they can or yes it is not possible? A shame, would have been a great sentiment and something to run during the summer holidays as a heritage attraction (timetable allowing).

I think Kriis meant yes they are too tall. However the voltage is also too high for the systems on the old cars as the nominal 750v DC can exceed 900 volts under regenerative braking conditions. This would be likely to damage the old motors and would certainly damage the lighting circuits which are designed for 500 to 550 volts. The wheel profiles are also much narrower and would have trouble passing through the railway style point work.

Great update as always JdR. Was a good day on Sun :)

Just installed the new app too - looks pretty neat

Sorry if it's already been posted.

Name change to the ....... stop?If it is let's hope Metrolink can spell Eastlands better than the GMPTE Press Office!

Managed to take some snaps of Central Park this afternoon. Enjoy.

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0683.jpg

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0690.jpg

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0691.jpg

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0693.jpg

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0689.jpg

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0696.jpg

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0695.jpg

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0697.jpg

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0699.jpg

They are cool Mr Cool!! Cracking photos :)

I was up there with MarkO & JdR on Sunday & it really is stunning. Everything seems to just flow.

It's strange tho stood there, with so few people about (like MediaCity at the mo too). Will be good to see the people come.

Yes they can or yes it is not possible? A shame, would have been a great sentiment and something to run during the summer holidays as a heritage attraction (timetable allowing).

Yes they would be too tall.

Did anyone else notice that on the ad theres the map with 2CC on it?
image
Does this map make it into the app?
Yes, it is a large scrollable map. Its the similar one that is on the Ticket Machines - but this one has the extensions in grey.

More on this I-Phone app...

The map is good & easy to navigate, as are the buttons at the bottom. Although, there are a few things that need sorting:

The Trafford Centre line is shown, but only goes as far as that & not onto Salford Reds.
Hardy Farm, Martinscroft & Woodhouse Park are still shown on the Airport line.
There are 2 future stops shown on 2CC, but unnamed.
Queens Rd & Abraham Moss are not shown on the Bury line.
Drake Street is shown & the Oldham town Centre 'loop' is not shown at all.

Personally (& as far as I know, no one knew the app was in the making?), I would have just got these little nitty gritty details right, before launching it to the masses.

7/10.

I hope they're reading this... & apologies to those of you who don't possess an I-Phone :)

If it is let's hope Metrolink can spell Eastlands better than the GMPTE Press Office!

I notice the Press Office don't seem sure what it's going to be called. First reference is to Eastland's Stadium, further on they refer to Eastland's City Stadium. The website still refers to Sportcity-Stadium!

Managed to take some snaps of Central Park this afternoon. Enjoy.



You wouldn't believe they were taken in Manchester with the bright sunlight and the backdrop. Great set of pictures.

More on this I-Phone app...

The map is good & easy to navigate, as are the buttons at the bottom. Although, there are a few things that need sorting:

The Trafford Centre line is shown, but only goes as far as that & not onto Salford Reds.
Hardy Farm, Martinscroft & Woodhouse Park are still shown on the Airport line.
There are 2 future stops shown on 2CC, but unnamed.
Queens Rd & Abraham Moss are not shown on the Bury line.
Drake Street is shown & the Oldham town Centre 'loop' is not shown at all.

Personally (& as far as I know, no one knew the app was in the making?), I would have just got these little nitty gritty details right, before launching it to the masses.

7/10.

I hope they're reading this... & apologies to those of you who don't possess an I-Phone :)

I've got the Android version but only the map seems to work. Stop search does nothing and obviously Live Info doesn't work yet. Has anyone got it working on an Android?

Thanks Mr Cool for the pics of Central Park. The dashes of yellow are making the stark backdrop more user friendly. I really hope for this station to become populated, dare I say open up shops/cafes, even a NR station.

No, someone's got their (overhead) wires crossed. As of last Wednesday there weren't even any support poles at the Sportcity stop - see my photo in post 7610 (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=75079003&postcount=7610).

Cheers loweskid - you're quite right but my fingers are still crossed, as the poles were being delivered a couple of weeks ago, and this weekend we saw them fully erect on the slope up to Man City . . .

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0771.jpg

Freel's photos also showed how quickly they can string the wires along - they will soon be at New Islington, so you never know with this lot! :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0784.jpg

mr cool, what an magnificent structure that Central Park is! There won't be any people just yet, but your pix show its elegance, and the one with the new GMPHQ in the background is a Japanese Zen work of art in itself - brilliant!

http://i838.photobucket.com/albums/zz309/razzledazzle_2010/_DSC0699.jpg[/QUOTE]

Now don't forget, everyone . . . open invite to meet up at the Waterhouse (Wetherspoon's) on Princess Street, the site of the new 2CC route and cenotaph's new location, 6pm on Thursday 31.3.11, for the LRTA meeting on Metrolink developments, 6.30 for 7pm at the Friends' Meeting House, 6 Mount Street (on the abandoned 2CC route). £2 donation towards hire of the room, all welcome!:banana::banana::banana:

Freel the Android version seems to work fine for me. Sometimes depends on what phone you have, a lot of apps tend not to work on specific devices.

Freel the Android version seems to work fine for me. Sometimes depends on what phone you have, a lot of apps tend not to work on specific devices.

Yes may be the HTC Hero isn't compatible. Never mind.

I've got the Android version but only the map seems to work. Stop search does nothing and obviously Live Info doesn't work yet. Has anyone got it working on an Android?

It seems to work fine on my android phone obviously without the live info... - I have a HTC Wildfire btw.

And scouseinmanc - As I said, it seems to be based on the map on the Ticket Machines and then using the 'future lines' info that was stated a few months ago. Things have changed quite a bit recently. I think it is actually the info that is on those yellow future maps on the platform shelters. I wonder where mxdata will be getting the data from... GMPTE when PIDs are working maybe??

No, someone's got their (overhead) wires crossed. As of last Wednesday there weren't even any support poles at the Sportcity stop - see my photo in post 7610 (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=75079003&postcount=7610).

Right or wrong on the dates, they'll want to get the juice on pronto to discourage the local freelance metal recyclers!

Also, if I finish work early, I'l try to get down the line towards Velopark and see how far they are with poles & wires etc. Maybe a few pics depending on the light levels by then.

My verdict on the iPhone app: nice effort. I'm sure they will correct all the minor issues in time. I have the mxdata tube map and that can be scrolled.

And scouseinmanc - As I said, it seems to be based on the map on the Ticket Machines and then using the 'future lines' info that was stated a few months ago. Things have changed quite a bit recently. I think it is actually the info that is on those yellow future maps on the platform shelters. I wonder where mxdata will be getting the data from... GMPTE when PIDs are working maybe??

Yes, I think that's right. Just with so many corrections to make, you'd think someone may have noticed their end & waited a little longer before launching?

I may have sounded a tad negative earlier tho. As an app, I like it. Easy to use & I like the summary of how long it takes from A-B, without listing all the stops in between. The twinkly stop lights are different!!

Would be better too if you could zoom in & out on the map, as opposed to the scrolling round.

I'll stick with the 7/10 & await improvement :)

Some excellent posts on today, very interesting especially the trolleybuses. I wish we still had them!

In regards to the wires at Holt Town at least. I was at a near by garage and from what I could see, the cross spans with droppers were up as before, but no contact wire at present.

Oldham & Rochdale Line - Mumps Station

Photos today from my favourite vantage point - the footbridge(s) over the Oldham Way and the former Railway.

Still have that concrete structure where the station will be - must be an island platform. Today they seem to be digging a trench for ducting.
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00003.jpg

Some metal looking pipes are there too.
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00002.jpg

Looking toward Werneth and Manchester some activity at last. Appears that ducting may be laid.
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00001.jpg

From the span over Oldham Way you can see the old B&Q on the left. Some stats work appears to be happening outside it. Presumably to make room for the Park and Ride car park and the proposed access/link road to/from Oldham Way.
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00004.jpg

I see 3029 is on test this week

http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/9713/3029.jpg (http://img845.imageshack.us/i/3029.jpg/)

Managed to take some snaps of Central Park this afternoon. Enjoy.
Enjoyed. :)

That lift exit at the upper level doesn't look good for those afraid of heights, even with the substantial barriers round the edge. Hopefully it's a bit less scary looking if you are up there.

Cheers Ashton. Some of us were also up at Oldham on Sunday, and it sure is a spectacular view from up there!

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1038.jpg

The only thing is, for that 2 1/2 years, it will be a hell of a long trek in the sky from the temporary Mumps station to the town centre! I think I have mentioned this before, but we worked out it is probably further to walk than the old Mumps, although closer as the crow flies . . . and you will feel like one! - first you have to climb these two ramps & over the top of the by-pass:-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1039.jpg

Then a similar distance down the other side :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1036.jpg

Arriving at the foot of Bridge Street :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1033.jpg

Then a climb up another hill towards Union Street, after which you will still be quite a way from the bus station and central areas :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1034.jpg

At the exhibition a few weeks ago they said there would eventually be a more convenient access, but it was all a bit vague as to timing, etc. It certainly makes you realise that the 3b town centre route is an absolute necessity - get digging!!
:banana:

A small point, but down at St Werburgh's, we noticed an interesting piece of conduit backing, making its way around the lift shaft, and wondered if it will be part of an illuminated sign or just a convenient bit of wiring?

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_0986.jpg
:banana:

I've asked this before, but don't recall seeing an answer from anyone. Can any of the people who've been to Oldham recently tell me whether the fire damaged signal box at Oldham is still standing, or has it now been flattened. I can make out the compound it was in on some of the photos, but the foliage means you can't tell if the box is still there, or not. Anyone able to answer this one for me please?

A small point, but down at St Werburgh's, we noticed an interesting piece of conduit backing, making its way around the lift shaft, and wondered if it will be part of an illuminated sign or just a convenient bit of wiring?



I would have thought it was on the wrong side for an illuminated sign.
Aren't there a lot of cameras! Four in that one view alone.

The only thing is, for that 2 1/2 years, it will be a hell of a long trek in the sky from the temporary Mumps station to the town centre! I think I have mentioned this before, but we worked out it is probably further to walk than the old Mumps, although closer as the crow flies . . . and you will feel like one! - first you have to climb these two ramps & over the top of the by-pass:-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1039.jpg

Plans show a foot crossing by the new link road. Still miles away from Oldham TC, but better than the piss stinking underpass of old.

http://www.oldham-chronicle.co.uk/uploads/f2/news/img/2011224_121657.jpg

:cheers: to both JdR and CplR

[QUOTE=Johnny de Rivative;75180583]A small point, but down at St Werburgh's, we noticed an interesting piece of conduit backing, making its way around the lift shaft, and wondered if it will be part of an illuminated sign or just a convenient bit of wiring?QUOTE]

Difficult to see where the tray is going to from the angle of the photo but it looks typically like the sort of installation a Client's IT contractor puts in post handover

Loving those pics of Central Park, best new British metro station since the Jubilee Line. Looks like something you would expect to find on a new south east asian metro.

[QUOTE=Johnny de Rivative;75180583]A small point, but down at St Werburgh's, we noticed an interesting piece of conduit backing, making its way around the lift shaft, and wondered if it will be part of an illuminated sign or just a convenient bit of wiring?

Difficult to see where the tray is going to from the angle of the photo but it looks typically like the sort of installation a Client's IT contractor puts in post handover

I reckon its the wiring for the CCTV. if you look under the stairs similar conduit goes to the camara there.

Plans show a foot crossing by the new link road. Still miles away from Oldham TC, but better than the piss stinking underpass of old.


A case for an Oldham MetroShuttle, perhaps ;)

Mumps forecourt --> Oldham Way --> New Right turn to Park and Ride car park --> Gallery Oldham --> Town Square Shopping Centre (TJ Hughes) --> St Mary's Way --> Bus Station --> Tommyfields Market --> Yorkshire Street --> Mumps --> Mumps forecourt

Otherwise some big hills would have to be climbed by Pedestrians.

The bright side is that GMPTE will only have to subsidise it for a couple of years until the town centre line gets built.

I would have thought it was on the wrong side for an illuminated sign.
Aren't there a lot of cameras! Four in that one view alone.

I reckon they will need all the cameras they can get, I think this station will unfortunately be well used by schoolkids as there's one just down the road!

(I'm not a fan of schoolkids in general!)

Do the other completed stations on the South Manchester line have a permanently stationed security person in a van watching the station 24/7? Or just St Werburghs?

Bit of a damp day for photos but here are some none the less :lol:

Hearing about the wires on the Piccadilly to Velopark section got my interest so I went to check it out. From Holt town to Velopark the wires are definitely not up and neither are the supports to fix them. part from in a few places

Holt Town station and environs

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000718.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000719.jpg

The river bridge now has rails fixed in place on one side :cheers:

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000720.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000721.jpg

Some heavy duty looking shelters are starting to appear at Eastlands City Stadium

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000722.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000723.jpg

Connecting up the railway style rails to the tramway grooved rails

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000724.jpg

Looking back towards Manchester

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000725.jpg

The exit of the tunnel to Asda

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000732.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000734.jpg

Velopark Station

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000728.jpg

Nearly there at Asda crossing

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000729.jpg

Jdr's favourite Canal curves

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000731.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000730.jpg

:cheers: Local/Tony

Great pics Tony

They are certainly cracking on with it aren't they.

What's the little grey hut on the left? Substation?

I noticed one going up alongside the Velodrome stop as well.

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000719.jpg

PS - I've just emailed 'em about the 'switch on'.

I also went down, as I promised yesterday 'to see how far the wires go'. As Tony said, I didn't need to go far. There are no wires into the Great Ancoats tunnel yet. They just go up to 'Portugal Street East' (i think that was the name of the little side road).
The rails are still not connected up outside the undercroft yet either. It seems that the first set of wires are powered - there are plenty of "WARNING - HIGH VOLTAGE" signs put up around, and a 2.5m height restriction over the pedestrian only access on Sheffield Street. I'm guessing that those wires are directly connected to the ones in the undercroft itself and therefore are powered from that. They then get tensioned after the turnback siding.
I guess it makes sense for all of Piccadilly Undercroft and the turnback to be on the same power line, in case power failed New Islington side. Means they could continue City Centre services to Piccadilly.

Cheers, Tony, and Wow! they have really been motoring this week! A lot of those things were not there on Sunday - the tarmac areas at Holt Town, the rails on the Medlock Bridge, the poles up to the top of the ramp at Man City, the big shelters (wish they would put some shelters that actually shelter across the system - there are precious few that are any good), and the lighting columns & downlights at Velopark. It certainly feels like it's all going to happen, and soon!

At Oldham, fully agree Cpl that a bridge is better than an orrible subway, but it will be windy at midnight on a wet Wednesday! Hopefully they will build the pedestrian crossing pdq.

On a different subject, looking back at this photo, I realised what a forgotten gem was the old M-disc logo, and how crucial it was to the stylishness of the original branding - especially when mixed with the strong-arm pantograph at the extremity of the vehicle, and the angularity of the windscreen :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0001-32.jpg

At the risk of repetition, the new 'diamond dots' logo could perform a similarly stylish function, but they seem reluctant to use it on the trams, or to permeate it very widely across the system.
:banana:

I also went down, as I promised yesterday 'to see how far the wires go'. As Tony said, I didn't need to go far. There are no wires into the Great Ancoats tunnel yet. They just go up to 'Portugal Street East' (i think that was the name of the little side road).
The rails are still not connected up outside the undercroft yet either. It seems that the first set of wires are powered - there are plenty of "WARNING - HIGH VOLTAGE" signs put up around, and a 2.5m height restriction over the pedestrian only access on Sheffield Street. I'm guessing that those wires are directly connected to the ones in the undercroft itself and therefore are powered from that. They then get tensioned after the turnback siding.
I guess it makes sense for all of Piccadilly Undercroft and the turnback to be on the same power line, in case power failed New Islington side. Means they could continue City Centre services to Piccadilly.

TBH it makes sense for the the turnback sidings to be in the same electrical cell as the station.

The little orange plastic barriers across the pedestrian/cycle crossing just north of St Werby's has now been replaced by more heavy duty metal railing things... which seems to suggest they aren't expecting any tram action anytime soon.. :(

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Werbys%20fencing/IMG_0633.jpg


http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Werbys%20fencing/IMG_0632.jpg

Also, the strange metal thing on the side of the lift shaft in the photo at the top of this page has now had the CCTV cameras wired into it :)

TBH it makes sense for the the turnback sidings to be in the same electrical cell as the station.

I think you'll find the section insulators are in the tunnel around the site of the old bufferblocks. They will have had to separate the new wires from the existing to allow work to carry on on the new line without having to block Piccadilly every time. The new wire will be earthed in the archway for safety. This means that the turnback will be part of the new line electrically. However I think the existing crossovers are retained so turning back will still be possible if the Ashton line has to isolated.

What a great set Tony. Fantastic how much has been done since the weekend!

The little orange plastic barriers across the pedestrian/cycle crossing just north of St Werby's has now been replaced by more heavy duty metal railing things... which seems to suggest they aren't expecting any tram action anytime soon.. :(

If you are referring to the Heras fencing across the tracks, these are temporary and can be removed in seconds

I think you'll find the section insulators are in the tunnel around the site of the old bufferblocks. They will have had to separate the new wires from the existing to allow work to carry on on the new line without having to block Piccadilly every time. The new wire will be earthed in the archway for safety. This means that the turnback will be part of the new line electrically. However I think the existing crossovers are retained so turning back will still be possible if the Ashton line has to isolated.

At Mediacity they were just using a thick cable and a couple of crocodile clips to do the isolation.

At Mediacity they were just using a thick cable and a couple of crocodile clips to do the isolation.

Yes thats normal pratice for 'temporary' earths. I expect the ones at the back of Piccadilly will be the same. The reason for them is that even though the wire across Sheffield St isn't electrically connected to that going back into the city the section insulators do 'leak' a bit especially in wet or damp weather. This means that the wire will be live and present a hazard to anyone working on or near it. The earths also protect against a tram overrunning the live section into the dead section and momentarily energising the 'dead wire' as it's pantograph passes under the insulator.

The earths you describe are applied using long fibre glass poles which have a quick release arrangement at the top to allow the wire clamp to part from the pole when it is secured to the wire.

The little orange plastic barriers across the pedestrian/cycle crossing just north of St Werby's has now been replaced by more heavy duty metal railing things... which seems to suggest they aren't expecting any tram action anytime soon.. :( :)

As ExManc says, martin these are not semi-permanent barriers, but it does seem surprising that a whole brand new spanking line has been left semi-mothballed like this for such a long time at a crucial moment in its history! They have also put massive wooden fencing at the entrances on Wilbraham Road, so you can't even get a proper peep at Chorlton Station from that level. I guess that this, together with all the new vehicles lying idle, can only mean that the whole shooting-match is delayed by the long-awaited Tram Management System (TOS). It seems ages now since they did a couple of guage and clearance tests with a couple of trams under external power.

Speaking of which, has anyone seen this happening this week on the Central Park line? We were up there on Sunday and the foreman told us it was due to start on Sunday evening. I have been back a few times, but like Chorlton it's a hive of inactivity, so I ended up taking some pix of the local area. . .

All quiet on the Smedley viaduct :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1072.jpg

And Monsall station - like Chorlton all ready and waiting with another little grey hut Loweskid (not sure what they are) :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1051.jpg

The upper mezzanine at Monsall :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1031.jpg

From Monsall heading towards Central Park, the line of tin soldiers curving up into the distance are ready for action, and awaiting orders :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1056.jpg

With the trailing crossover on the Manchester side, the outbound platform will be the inbound for the time being (as at Velopark, and Broadway in 1999) :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1122.jpg

A couple more views of Zentral Park :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/100_5780-1.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1066.jpg

Along the Irk Valley towards Abraham Moss, the Hellfire Club :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1078.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1127.jpg

And the Smedley Hotel :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1080.jpg

A grand entrance :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1085.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1092.jpg

At last, a picture of a tram, & my favourite logo in a garden :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1091.jpg
:banana:

Theyve landscaped Abraham Moss on that side quite well.

Dont know how true this is but at work this morning i was speaking to a a lad that works at morrisons and he told me that they are extending the opening hours to coincide with the chorlton line opening and he said they have been told its going to be may 3rd, i think the lad is on the management side so could be credible if a month is enough time to get driver training and tos completed

Pleeeease let that be true!!!! Optimism rocks!

Dont know how true this is but at work this morning i was speaking to a a lad that works at morrisons and he told me that they are extending the opening hours to coincide with the chorlton line opening and he said they have been told its going to be may 3rd, i think the lad is on the management side so could be credible if a month is enough time to get driver training and tos completed

Lol if true I would win with my May Day estimate :P

Isn't mayday May 2nd?

Yeah but did anyone estimate closer in the sweepstakes?

Hey, I think my estimate was May 3rd! Will check later...

At last, a picture of a tram, & my favourite logo in a garden :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1091.jpg
:banana:

I used to hate the combination of the old and new colours, but I guess in that sunny picture they actually look quite good together!:lol:

nah the turquise and yellow will never go well together, just JdR's excelent photography making it look better than it is!

All quiet on the Smedley viaduct :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1072.jpg



Your previous pictures of the Smedley viaduct showed the sleepers at the points in the foreground covered in ballast.

Now, post tamping, they are not.

Can anyone explain what the desired final disposition of the ballast between the rails actually is? Does it cover the bar sleepers, but not the wooden ones, to allow the points to actuate?



The upper mezzanine at Monsall :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1032.jpg



You appear to have a Posse.

You appear to have a Posse.

That face is clearly unimpressed by the lack of vision behind...

That face is clearly unimpressed by the lack of vision behind...

Put a big net up so we dont lose the ball, perfect for a game of wallie

JdR has a huge posse!

Now wait a minute...

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/54686/gmpte-changes-name-to-transport-for-greater-manchester


http://www.tfgm.com/ (http://www.tfgm.com/)

Surely an April Fools? I mean... surely?! Although they did go out of their way to acquire the domain...

Mind you, it looks convincing. We've speculated the name change for a long time, too. But why April 1st? And why the lack of notice, or customary photo opportunity?

I'm confused.

...ah, my bad. It seems the official name change has been in the pipeline for some time now. Sorry, I hadn't known.

Now wait a minute...

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/54686/gmpte-changes-name-to-transport-for-greater-manchester


http://www.tfgm.com/ (http://www.tfgm.com/)

Surely an April Fools? I mean... surely?! Although they did go out of their way to acquire the domain...

Mind you, it looks convincing. We've speculated the name change for a long time, too. But why April 1st? And why the lack of notice, or customary photo opportunity?

I'm confused.

My office IT system has blocked
http://www.tfgm.com/ (http://www.tfgm.com/)
as it reckons its an adult porn site!

Can anyone explain what the desired final disposition of the ballast between the rails actually is? Does it cover the bar sleepers, but not the wooden ones, to allow the points to actuate?
.

In ancient times (up until about 1900) it was quite common to ballast over railway sleepers. Then it was realised that sleepers could rot, undetected, under ballast and it became the practice to leave them exposed.

I think it's just a case of the approved practice with wooden sleepers being followed

It is universal practice to ballast up to the tops of the sleepers to provide maximum lateral stability all round. Ballast on top of the sleeper is pointless, creates a trip hazard and looks untidy (in that order). If you left the cross bar of the twin block sleepers exposed you'd lose the extra stability provided by the inner faces of the end blocks (which is one of the selling points of them).

I think you'll find the section insulators are in the tunnel around the site of the old bufferblocks. They will have had to separate the new wires from the existing to allow work to carry on on the new line without having to block Piccadilly every time. The new wire will be earthed in the archway for safety. This means that the turnback will be part of the new line electrically. However I think the existing crossovers are retained so turning back will still be possible if the Ashton line has to isolated.

I went round to Sheffield Street yesterday before going to the LRTA Meeting in town. The following 2 photos taken on my phone camera show the area tidied up and a start on landscaping.

In the second photo the earth cables can be seen attached to the OLE pole just inside the portal along with the heavier feeder cables on the arms. In the background at the next pole in the section insulator can be seen slightly tilted over, it's the silver thing in the wire just by the pole arm. there's another one in the wire above the inbound line. In the second picture it looks as though the concrete is being laid to from the base slab for the missing sections of rail.

Apologies for the quality but as I say I had to use my phone camera.

Sheffield Street Siding

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/IMAG0076.jpg

Sheffield Street Portal wired up.

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/IMAG0071.jpg

I went round to Sheffield Street yesterday before going to the LRTA Meeting in town. The following 2 photos taken on my phone camera show the area tidied up and a start on landscaping.

In the second photo the earth cables can be seen attached to the OLE pole just inside the portal along with the heavier feeder cables on the arms. In the background at the next pole in the section insulator can be seen slightly tilted over, it's the silver thing in the wire just by the pole arm. there's another one in the wire above the inbound line. In the second picture it looks as though the concrete is being laid to from the base slab for the missing sections of rail.

Apologies for the quality but as I say I had to use my phone camera.

Sheffield Street Siding

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/IMAG0076.jpg

Quite a change from 6 months ago.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4046/5120234951_021ca0fd68_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5120234951/)Piccadilly Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5120234951/) by

Mackenzie London (http://www.flickr.com/people/mackenzieblu/), on Flickr

Sheffield Street Portal wired up.

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/IMAG0071.jpg

Six months eariler....

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1165/5120837246_3f21707b41_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5120837246/)Piccadilly Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackenzieblu/5120837246/) by

Mackenzie London (http://www.flickr.com/people/mackenzieblu/), on Flickr

Nice to see the project coming along. Hopefully but the time I'm next up we'll have alot more to look at (and hopefully some new lines & :banana: to try out!)

And my little 3010 - http://twitpic.com/4fmua2

Now wait a minute...

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/54686/gmpte-changes-name-to-transport-for-greater-manchester


http://www.tfgm.com/ (http://www.tfgm.com/)

Surely an April Fools? I mean... surely?! Although they did go out of their way to acquire the domain...

Mind you, it looks convincing. We've speculated the name change for a long time, too. But why April 1st? And why the lack of notice, or customary photo opportunity?

I'm confused.

Hi

If it is true then they have charge the name for GMITA to Transport for Greater Manchester Committee (TfGMC) but let see what it say tomorrrow.

Also good picture everyone who took them this week I see East Manchester getting on quick well and Abraham Moss look near finish as well.

Do anyone know if the have any tram test the line down at Central Park I know someone say about they was going be doing it last weekend but have they and have they do anymore test on Chorlton line becuase looking at them picture at St. Werburgh’s Road that could have it opened know.

Dont know how true this is but at work this morning i was speaking to a a lad that works at morrisons and he told me that they are extending the opening hours to coincide with the chorlton line opening and he said they have been told its going to be may 3rd, i think the lad is on the management side so could be credible if a month is enough time to get driver training and tos completed

If the do opened it on May 3rd then on Tuesday it be one mouth until it opened :)

If the do opened it on May 3rd then on Tuesday it be one mouth until it opened :)

The long wait will finally be over. :)

Chorltoners will a get a quick tram to town and won't have to mess around on buses through the busy Universities area.

It definitely has changed. My missus works for the former PTE.

I think it's been kept low key because of the financial situation, i.e. there isn't the money to spend on a massive rebranding exercise.


Now wait a minute...

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/54686/gmpte-changes-name-to-transport-for-greater-manchester


http://www.tfgm.com/ (http://www.tfgm.com/)

Surely an April Fools? I mean... surely?! Although they did go out of their way to acquire the domain...

Mind you, it looks convincing. We've speculated the name change for a long time, too. But why April 1st? And why the lack of notice, or customary photo opportunity?

I'm confused.

Hi

I notice this in Oldham Chronicle taking about the line going through tunnel.

GREATER Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) bosses have defended an accusation that they tried to cover up the cost of the temporary Metrolink line to Oldham.

They claim the irrecoverable costs of the 1.5-mile twin route — which will be ripped up after a few years of use — will be approximately £4 million.

Newly-laid rails along the route of the former railway line between Featherstall Road and Oldham Mumps, together with electrification and signalling equipment, will be removed once trams start to run along Union Street.

But Oldham’s Euro-MP Chris Davies said the work was “astonishingly cheap” compared with the £80 million price of building the Metrolink through the town.

Mr Davies said the situation would be embarrassing for all concerned to see a state-of-the-art tram line abandoned and utterly destroyed just a short time after completion.

He said: “It represents a terrible waste of money when so many other public transport improvements are having to be deferred.

“I am suspicious of the figure given by GMPTE for the work — either this is the cheapest tram scheme in the entire country by far, or there has been some creative accounting to give the impression that the costs are lower than will really be the case.”

Chief executive David Leather admitted the £4 million figure does not include the costs of demolishing bridges at Mumps, constructing a level crossing across the Oldham Way dual carriageway, or rebuilding the road once the trams cease to run.

He said these costs are accounted for under the next phase of work and that the total budgeted costs for the permanent Oldham extension is £89 million.

Philip Purdy, GMPTE’s Metrolink director, said: “The current Mumps to Featherstall Road section has to be converted into a Metrolink line in order for trams to reach Oldham Mumps during autumn this year, but costs will be kept to a minimum.

“Rather than laying entirely new track through this section, we will be reusing as much of the existing heavy rail track as possible.

“When the line through Oldham town centre opens during spring 2014, we will decommission that section and then reuse and recycle as much of the equipment, fixtures and infrastructure as possible on other sections of the network.”

He said that to just wait for the town centre line would have delayed the arrival of any trams to Oldham by several years.

It will make sense just to use the train track from Werneth to Mumps for 2 half years and also they where sayings that recycle as much of the equipment, fixtures and infrastructure as possible on other sections of the network.” surely they will use it on Airport line as that not going open until 2016.

http://www.oldham-chronicle.co.uk/news-features/8/news-headlines/54700/tram-claim-dismissed

And my little 3010 - http://twitpic.com/4fmua2

Nice model, did you see the pics of the models I built myself?
http://kriis.host56.com/7.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0240.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0241.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0242.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0243.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0244.jpg

Also, for those who went to the meeting last night - Did anything interesting get said? I forgot about it until I was outside my door at 5.30pm :/

Quite a lively meeting - about 30-40 people there, although the screen projector didn't arrive until 1930! About 130 photos of Metrolink construction and future routes which have appeared on SSC in the last 12 months, together with an erudite and entertaining commentary by Tony Williams, LRTA Manchester Area Officer. Much discussion of the new 2CC route, buses and capacity on Mosley Street, the elusive Tram management System (TOS) and the very strange timetable for Media City which has appeared on the timetable for next week - see discussion on the other thread. Btw Kriis, 'shuttle' really means a short working, backwards and forwards, (in this case Cornbrook - MC) rather than 'express.' Metrolink doesn't have any 'Limited Stop' services, and I am sure none are planned at present.

Four of us attended the meeting from the forum, me, Rob793, Wirlie and Freel - I couldn't make it for the drink at the Waterhouse after, but I think everyone enjoyed the debate. Don't worry Kriis, we will probably be doing Metrolink again in about 12 months! - the programme for other months is on lrta.org, in the meantime your models look great!
:banana::cucumber:

Anything new or insightful from your guest speaker or was it pretty much the same company line?

Well Tony knows a lot about civil engineering, signalling and railway practices, and someone else who works for Metrolink said they are hoping to sort out the TMS system before too long, but in general it was commentary about what has been achieved, and all the possibilities for how it may pan out in the future. TFGM tend to keep their cards close to the chest (viz the new timetable) but there seems to be no shortage of exciting developments to keep us all agog!

Nice model, did you see the pics of the models I built myself?

I had been admiring your avatar picture for awhile, hadn't realised you'd built them yourself! Well done! :banana:

Im actually looking at getting a second one (this time 3001) as I'm very impressed by them.

Nice model, did you see the pics of the models I built myself?
http://kriis.host56.com/7.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0240.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0241.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0242.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0243.jpg
http://kriis.host56.com/Photo0244.jpg
Where can I get these? They are cool.

Quite a lively meeting - about 30-40 people there, although the screen projector didn't arrive until 1930! About 130 photos of Metrolink construction and future routes which have appeared on SSC in the last 12 months, together with an erudite and entertaining commentary by Tony Williams, LRTA Manchester Area Officer. Much discussion of the new 2CC route, buses and capacity on Mosley Street, the elusive Tram management System (TOS) and the very strange timetable for Media City which has appeared on the timetable for next week - see discussion on the other thread. Btw Kriis, 'shuttle' really means a short working, backwards and forwards, (in this case Cornbrook - MC) rather than 'express.' Metrolink doesn't have any 'Limited Stop' services, and I am sure none are planned at present.

Thanks for the update JdR. I thought that a Corn-MC one-stop service would actually work - As long as the timetable allowed the MC shuttle to leave Cornbrook as the tram before an Eccles tram. Means that the shuttle would only need to stop for road junctions and it wouldn't get held back by the Eccles tram in front. Shame it won't work like that.. Would mean a very quick service for the news reporters :lol:


in the meantime your models look great!
:banana::cucumber:
Have you got anywhere with your models yet?

And GanEden, I've PM'ed you.

Don't know why but there's a mpt guy walking up the south Manchester line beside the track. Saw him at Werbys, he's just walked on through Chorlton and has disappeared round the bend. Maybe checking the track before testing?? Optimism!!

Really can't see these extensions opening on May 3rd as someone posted a few days ago. Looking at Old Trafford there are still bits of track not installed, the signalling isn't yet up and running and, more importantly, there doesn't appear to have been any real start on regular live testing and driver training. There's a hell of a lot to do to have it opened in one month and I suspect its more likely that late June or July could be more realistic. Sorry to be the monger of doom and gloom - I just don't see it being achievable in a month!

Sad to say but I kinda agree... It does seem a lot to do in a very short time. I wish we knew what exactly the delay was with the TMS. I'm sure there's a lot going on behind the scenes but to an outsider it almost looks like the South Mcr Line has been mothballed! I'm going to pop out shortly to see if the works between 29. March and 1. April were to connect the lines up at Trafford Bar...

All the bananas at OT depot are powered up, pantographs erect, with Tram on Test on their displays. Looks a bit weird! There's no actual movement...

I have seen a bit more activity on the Chorlton line lately and I expect to see testing within a couple of weeks. The bits to with the track won't take long. I think the big hold up will be getting the software to work properly.

Works has begun (just) on the airport bridge just east of the airport station. Why they didn`t just build it for 3 heavy and 2 light rails in the first place I don`t know, instead of widening it a second time.

Also, just seen this in another thread. Note the Metrolink tunnel under Ringway Rd West. Wishful thinking or confirmation?

http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/6480/screen20110401212350.jpg

I think it shows platform 4 at the Airport too. hard to tell, could be a footpath but its in the right place.

Yes it definetly shows the tunnel under the road and the ring itself has been moved further west (image is upside down) into a new T junction.

Works has begun (just) on the airport bridge just east of the airport station. Why they didn`t just build it for 3 heavy and 2 light rails in the first place I don`t know, instead of widening it a second time.

Because when the airport station was built, the additional (3rd and 4th) heavy rail platforms were going to be either side of a second (identical) island platfrom, located to the south of the current one. This was somewhat kiboshed when Bewleys went up. Also, a Metrolink Airport line was a bit of pipedream.

When the third platform idea was developed in 2000, the idea was build it on the north side of the current island, but GMPTE couldn't commit, so then the 3rd platform moved to the south side, with a lenghtening of the southern span of Outwood Lane bridge to accommodate it.

This lengthening fell foul of budget issues and the fact that GMPTE still couldn't commit to building the Airport line at all, which would have meant having unequal spans of a continuous deck for the foreseeable.

Just as the final Pandrol clip went in on the third platform, Metrolink Phase 3 was authorised, so the new fourth heavy rail platform (part of Northern Hub, so pretty likely to happen) will have to be on the north side, with Metrolink (but probably not shared) and the northern span of Outwood Lane will now be lengthened (which avoids knocking the Hilton down, which would be required if Metrolink used a seperate bridge) creating unequal spans :bash:

I doubt the works on Outwood Lane are Metrolink construction related, as they will need NR's cooperation to do anything to it, and I know that isn't a live topic just at the moment, but will be very soon.

Little bit of progress down south, finally there's a surface been laid on the stretch immediately south of West Didsbury station...

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/IMG_0639.jpg

At West Didsbury station itself there's some heavy plant!

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/IMG_0640.jpg

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/IMG_0641.jpg

Finally could someone enlighten me as to what on earth is the purpose of these board things that they have put next to all the new level crossings?? They don't lead anywhere, so what are they for..?

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/IMG_0637.jpg

Thanks!

Cover over the loops for detecting trams passing over. On the street track they embed it in concrete.

Thanks watcher! What do these loops do when they detect trams..?

Cover over the loops for detecting trams passing over. On the street track they embed it in concrete.

At St Werburghs at least any loops would have been well covered in ballast.
I think they are there simply improve the visibility and therefore safety of pedestrians.

Still no sign of much activity between Smedley Viaduct and Central Park? - apart from one or two individuals in orange keeping an eye on things . . .

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1155.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1152-1.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1163.jpg

Further up towards Oldham, however, most of the track has appeared very quickly, together with the beginnings of stations, but no overhead as yet. I had forgotten that South Chad was originally going to have a new suspension bridge, over the footpath between Coalshaw Green Park and the playing fields :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG-31.jpg

However, the favourite option nowadays is to bring the embankment down to ground level with pedestrian foot crossings at grade :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1148.jpg

The tracks in the background come down from Drury Lane bridge, looking towards Hollinwood and Manchester :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1146.jpg

In the same direction, the platforms are also coming :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1134.jpg

On the other side of the foot crossing, another little box has arrived, Loweskid. I am told they are not substations, but stores for station gubbins such as CCTV equipment, toolkits and other bits, pieces and bobs. The tracks are between the two colours of brown which have been knocked out of the embankment :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1129.jpg

You can just see the tracks starting up hill again, right to left behind the fence :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1130.jpg

In this direction, the tracks curve upwards through the cutting-in-an-embankment :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1133.jpg

And at the top of the hill will be the next station, Freehold :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0001-33.jpg

:banana:

I keep comparing these two pictures



http://i935.photobucket.com/albums/ad200/Vernon151/Tramtrack.jpg



http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/IMAG0071.jpg

Two blokes working together to create a tram network.

A lot more safety barriers these days though!

But still wearing 'hats' and 'waistcoats' ;)

Hi

Good picture of South Manchester Line Martin and also good picture at South Chadderton Johnny I never seen that picture of Freehold before but I don't think it will look like that as I don't think they will traffic light at Block lane bridge and it show a Car park on Agnes Street which they is'nt going be.

Also I took some picture of South Chadderton too today and here they are

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5221/5585031603_e12a102228_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrolink_work/5585031603/)update South Chadderton Platform 4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrolink_work/5585031603/)
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5019/5585623024_2108a44397_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrolink_work/5585623024/)update South Chadderton Platform 3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrolink_work/5585623024/)
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5020/5585030887_b0a85b793e_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrolink_work/5585030887/)update South Chadderton Platform 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrolink_work/5585030887/)
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5304/5585030129_fbae58bd5f_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrolink_work/5585030129/)update South Chadderton Platform (http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrolink_work/5585030129/)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrolink_work/

I keep comparing these two pictures

Two blokes working together to create a tram network.

You are forgetting the other 6 out of shot with a cup of tea and talking about the score last night... :ohno:

Nice pics R02 :)

Just in case anyone hasn't already seen them, here are the brick lift shafts of Firswood Station that were mentioned many pages back.

I know I'm in a minority of 1, but I definitely prefer them to the bare concrete ones.

Are there any other stations on the extensions that have similar shafts?

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Firswood%2003042011/IMG_1096.jpg

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Firswood%2003042011/IMG_1097.jpg

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/Firswood%2003042011/IMG_1098.jpg

Nice work Rob2 I see you got wet as well!

I went for a wander between Mumps and Shaw this afternoon. I had intended to go all the way to Rochdale but having had a real good soaking in Oldham I gave up at Shaw.

Anyway some photos of my trip. I took some from the Oldham Way footbridge but nothing has really happened since Johnny's last set so I won't bore anyone with them.
A view from the end of Walshaw Place looking up the ramp to the old Station benind the excavator. Not much change form earlier photos really.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000942a.jpg

The view up the ramp leaving Mumps for Derker taken from Bell Street which is now at the same level almost as the trackbed. this is quite some climb up to the old track level.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000944a.jpg

A shot looking towards Derker taken from the site access gate on Brook Street which parallels the route. Not much progress again really.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000947a.jpg

The view back toward Mumps from Shaw Road Bridge. they seem to have started stripping the old ballast away ready for refurbishing the formation.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000949a.jpg

A view of the bridge refurbishment work on Yates Street Bridge Derker. this was the site of Derker Station.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000953a.jpg

The view back towards Oldham from Yates Street. They have started the platform foundations here, the piling is visible on both side.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000955a.jpg

Two views from Meek street Bridge. first looking back to Derker and the second towards Shaw. In both recently delivered ballast stocks are visible.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000958a.jpg

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000960a.jpg

Two views from Bullcote Lane Bridge Heyside. The first one looks back towards Derker and in the second one the ballasted trackbed on the way to Shaw can be seen. They are lowering the track through this bridge and I think the next one north to gain clearance for the OLE.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000974a.jpg

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000973a.jpg

Two views south from Beal Lane Shaw. The first general shot shows the platform base for the Rochdale direction formed, the second one zoomed in a little shows track construction approaching Briar Mill Shaw from the direction of Derker.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000962a.jpg

http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000963a.jpg

The other side of Beal Lane the base for the Stop Equipment Room is visible with all the holes for the cable ducting cast in place.
http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae333/freel07/Metrolink/P1000967a.jpg

I thought there might have been more progress beyond Oldham but I guess that since most of the route will be ballasted track it will appear very quickly once they get started in earnest.

You are forgetting the other 6 out of shot with a cup of tea and talking about the score last night... :ohno:

Is that in both photos :lol::lol:

Cover over the loops for detecting trams passing over. On the street track they embed it in concrete.

I don't think they cover the loops as on ballasted track they are often left exposed. If they are to accentuate the pedestrian crossings it seems strange they are only on the 'trailing' side.

Reduce thieving I guess, you can see the cable on that image too.

Reduce thieving I guess, you can see the cable on that image too.

I'd missed the cable in the ballast. I guess it must be to cover the loops then. I suppose with them being so close to the crossing some form of protection is desirable.

If they are to accentuate the pedestrian crossings it seems strange they are only on the 'trailing' side.

Not to accentuate the pedestrian crossings but to accentuate the pedestrian. Pedestrians can be more easily seen if there is a plain background behind them. If it's a broken background such as ballast then it can 'camouflage' the figure.

Obviously, only works if behind the figure, hence only on the trailing side.

I don't think they cover the loops as on ballasted track they are often left exposed. If they are to accentuate the pedestrian crossings it seems strange they are only on the 'trailing' side.

They'd be behind the pedestrians on the trailing side and do nothing at all to show them up on the leading side!

Oops Loweskid, and your's was the better answer too:cheers:

Hi

Thanks for that Freel07 and Martin and also good picture at Firswood Station martin it can't be long until tram are up and down that line.:cheers:
Also good picture between Mumps and Shaw Freel07 :cheers: and ans u question yes I did get wet, Hailstone and heavy rain got me.

Hi

Thanks for that Freel07 and Martin Freel07 :cheers: and ans u question yes I did get wet, Hailstone and heavy rain got me.

Me to, I was walking back from Derker to my car at Mumps near the old B&Q when it started and was absolutely wet through when I got back. Where did all that hailstone come from? I nearly gave up but decided to have a run up Shaw Road to Meek St and just kept on to Shaw.

Another great photographic weekend Chinas! Loved 'em all, and my vote goes for the brick chimneys (sorry, liftshafts) as well martin - concrete can be fine, but brick to me is a warmer colour and homely.

Over here on the East Side Story, we must have 99% of the track in place now from Picc to Velopark, with only the Picc junction and the top of the Man City ramp missing (I think?)

Here's the state of play between Holt Town and Man City at sundown on on 2.4.11 :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1197.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1196.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1199.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1190.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1193.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1187.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1173.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1179.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1183.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_1185.jpg

It's only a couple of metres from there to the existing platform trackwork at Man City, so all we need now is a couple of lengths of running wires and we're laughing!

(Oh and the Tram Management System) :banana:

Another great photographic weekend Chinas! Loved 'em all, and my vote goes for the brick chimneys (sorry, liftshafts) as well martin - concrete can be fine, but brick to me is a warmer colour and homely.

Over here on the East Side Story, we must have 99% of the track now from Picc to Velopark, with only the Picc junction and the top of the Man City ramp missing (I think?)

Here's the state of play between Holt Town and Man City at sundown on on 2.4.11 :-



All we need now is a couple of lengths of running wires and we're laughing!

Oh and the Tram management System) :banana:

Wow they have really moved with all that rail since the poles were delivered.

As to the brick lift shafts, interestingly theres been research that found if a building was built whose colour didnt match the colour of local soils and clays (imported from another region) then it caused a mild depressive effect in the local population who saw it everyday.

As to the brick lift shafts, interestingly theres been research that found if a building was built whose colour didnt match the colour of local soils and clays (imported from another region) then it caused a mild depressive effect in the local population who saw it everyday.

Hm, there were a few brick fields around the area of Firswood, though I suspect that the brick built housing in the area had more affect on the planners.

Some pictures of the south Manchester line.

Didsbury (taken from Burton Road)

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u141/amazingtrade/wd4.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u141/amazingtrade/wd3.jpg

West Didsbury station

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u141/amazingtrade/wd2-Copy.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u141/amazingtrade/wd1.jpg

St Werbourghs Road bridge looking east towards the Pennines.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u141/amazingtrade/sw2.jpg

St Werboughs Road station from the bridge

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u141/amazingtrade/sw1.jpg

Work has started on Hardy Lane

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u141/amazingtrade/hl2.jpg

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u141/amazingtrade/hl1.jpg

Sorry if some of these photos are similar to what has already being posted but it should show work in progress :).