Remember TfGM has to prove the line is running safely before they can complete it all. There is an element where some drivers will learn the route during this phase of testing. The second phase gets you training driver and the timetable out in real world conditions. Something that can't be proven until your in the real world conditions. Also note that running times are approximate until real world running.

Only I was wondering why then some trams are one + driver, two + driver and in one instance, about six + driver. Seems a heavy load for pure line testing.

Only I was wondering why then some trams are one + driver, two + driver and in one instance, about six + driver. Seems a heavy load for pure line testing.

I'd expect them to web signalling engineers checking all data the tram receives are what is expect. After the MediaCityUK issues I'm sure they are looking hard at getting the line up and running quickly.

Bit late to be worrying about that isn't it?

Not really as most of the work is done before you build but you never can know for sure if everything's right until it's running. Better to test it fully now then find in 2016 you got it wrong and the Airport line is mothballed while you try and fix the problem. This way you buffer again any possible issues with as much time as possible.

Just been for a long drive along the airport route.

There are shed loads of utility diversions on at the moment. Holyhedge Rd is down to one direction (west bound) and plenty of other workers all over the place with long yellow plastic pipes.

Well worth a visit for anyone who can get down there - that is going to be one hell of a long line in years to come.

Amazing to think this work is going on more than 5 years before opening.

Hi

Thanks for taking picture on chorlton line everyone cheer. I happy that the finally putting track down on the bridge near Dean Lane but not too happy that line to Central Park still need work doing.

Also notice on other forums someone said this "I have just received further notification that along the line from Trafford Bar to St. Werburgh's Road, there will be such workings from Friday 10th June to Friday 24th June ... the work period being from 1800 through to 0500". Does is mean the chorlton line will'nt be opening on June 21st then.

I don't think 21st June has ever been more than Chorlton appearing on PayPoint, not exactly confirmation of the opening date.

Some of the workers seem to think 21st of June is correct.

Some of the workers seem to think 21st of June is correct.

Nothing to indicate that isn't the official handover date for the completed line with working signalling. For the workers it would be the end of project and the start for Metrolink.

Do we think the PIDs on the new line will be unwrapped and tested soon? I'm assuming they'll "open" along with the line..?

Workers still think they will be there till August, fixing things which are only obvious once the line is open. This might be very silly things, like lift faults, loosr rails, bins in the wrong place - that sort of thing.

I had a look at the line an hour ago or so but it was dead, I assume because it is Friday they have all gone home.

And yep I am hoping to see the PIDs unwrapped soon :)

I found this on Metrolink website do anyone know if it for Chorlton Line.

Engineering work 17-19 June 2011

The will be no trams running on the Altrincham line from 2100 on Friday 17th June until 1100 on Sunday 19th June 2011.

Replcement Buses

A replacement bus service will run between Altrincham and Piccadilly, calling at all stops except Mosley Street.

The nearest bus stop for Mosley Street is Piccadilly Gardens (on London Road, outside the Tesco Metro).


Journey Times

As there is a replacement bus service in operation, please allow more time for your journey;

Altrincham to Piccadilly - 62 mins approx.

The last replacement bus times are the same as the usual last tram times - information is up at all stops.

Please allow enough time to make your connection.

Normal tram services will resume from 1100 on Sunday 19th June.

Please buy your ticket from a Metrolink ticket machine before boarding the bus.

Metrolink apologises for any inconvenience.

We have two bouts of engineering work, 11-12th June Altrincham and Eccles lines closed and 17-19th June only the Altrincham line closed.

Now someone mentioned the GMEX track corner finally being replaced which is probably the first closure (no Eccles) though im sure they will be doing work elsewhere as well (cornbrook siding perhaps?). The second closure is the interesting one as its only Altrincham being closed not Eccles which suggests whatever their doing is beyond Cornbrook (Trafford Junction?).

I'm planning to go down to St Werburgh's this week, but since I have never ventured down that way in my life, I may need some help.

Would it be best to take the 86 from Piccadilly Gardens? If so, where do I alight? Also, how long does it take to walk from Werby's to Firswood?

Thanks. :cheers:


Futurelink, if you live near Eccles and the 22 route, board a Stockport one and it will take you all the way to Chorlton and St Werburghs Road

Do we think the PIDs on the new line will be unwrapped and tested soon? I'm assuming they'll "open" along with the line..?

Which may mean the Eccles ones get turned on too?

Anyone got any ideas of the speed trams will be able to go at on the fin bridge at Central Park? 15-20mph?

I found this today, give you a more official view on how the testing is spilt into phases.

http://menmedia.co.uk/southmanchesterreporter/news/transport/s/1419285_tram-stop-victory-for-action-group

The Didsbury spur is due to open in 2012, while trams are weeks away from starting to run on the Trafford Bar to Chorlton part of the line.

No set date has yet to be given for when the service will get underway but it is thought to be around June.

Philip Purdy, Transport for Greater Manchester's Metrolink director, said: "The infrastructure on the new Chorlton Metrolink line is largely complete with 'snagging' works currently being carried out.

"The next step will be to install and commission the new Tram Management System then commission and test the operation of the new line.

"Once installation and testing is complete, we will carry out a programme of staff and driver training before we open the Chorlton line for passenger service."

It's interesting to see that there is an Altrincham only closure, does sound like the link up to the new line. As the Cornbrook turn back is needed before full Chorlton line testing can be done it does sound like that second weekend is going to see the final pieces put into place. I have a feeling this forum is going to be the place to watch with you guys feeding the information! Can you view the junction from outside railway land?

I'd say this isn't driver training from what we've seen. It's load testing trying to replicate what future peak loads the line will receive. That's why we've had multiple banana testing. They are checking the system can cope with loadings from 2016 from what's there now. After all once it's open no more testing can be done. This way they know it can cope with East Didsbury and Airport line working together without a worry the system will be overloaded.

Sounds like the line has been handed over the TfGM who are now in phase one testing. Once the line is proven with signalling then phase two will start and they will have drivers doing route learning. Hence why your seeing lots of people in the trams next. They won't go into phase two testing until the Chorlton line is physically linked up to the current network and proven under stress conditions.

So lots to happen yet but the fact they are continuing testing with so many units seems to indicate that testing is going well. In fact it's looking like the TMS is operating correctly. But they need to keep pushing the system under 2016 conditions for awhile to see if it falls over. If it doesn't then they can move to the next phase.

But it's positive.

Driver training is in progress using up to 5 M5000s. All those I saw today had two people in the cab and they were up and down in rapid succession. Yes testing is combined with this but the emphasis is on training at present. The main job this weekend is GMex curves although there may be work slotted in at Trafford Bar under cover of the blockade.

I found this today, give you a more official view on how the testing is spilt into phases.

http://menmedia.co.uk/southmanchesterreporter/news/transport/s/1419285_tram-stop-victory-for-action-group

The Didsbury spur is due to open in 2012, while trams are weeks away from starting to run on the Trafford Bar to Chorlton part of the line.

No set date has yet to be given for when the service will get underway but it is thought to be around June.

Philip Purdy, Transport for Greater Manchester's Metrolink director, said: "The infrastructure on the new Chorlton Metrolink line is largely complete with 'snagging' works currently being carried out.

"The next step will be to install and commission the new Tram Management System then commission and test the operation of the new line.

"Once installation and testing is complete, we will carry out a programme of staff and driver training before we open the Chorlton line for passenger service."

It's interesting to see that there is an Altrincham only closure, does sound like the link up to the new line. As the Cornbrook turn back is needed before full Chorlton line testing can be done it does sound like that second weekend is going to see the final pieces put into place. I have a feeling this forum is going to be the place to watch with you guys feeding the information! Can you view the junction from outside railway land?

If Cornbrook turnback is to be brought into use before Chorlton opens it can't be next weekend as its only the Altrincham Line shut that weekend. Cornbrook isn't a requirement as long as they don't try to run 10tph to Chorlton.

I found this today, give you a more official view on how the testing is spilt into phases.

http://menmedia.co.uk/southmanchesterreporter/news/transport/s/1419285_tram-stop-victory-for-action-group



But, late April makes it nearly 3 months old.

But, late April makes it nearly 3 months old.

Yes but it doesn't change anything as it's got to be phased approach to opening the line. I just thought he explained it better than I did.

Futurelink, if you live near Eccles and the 22 route, board a Stockport one and it will take you all the way to Chorlton and St Werburghs Road

I was originally going to do that, but I need to go into town first anyway. Thanks nonetheless! :)

Yes but it doesn't change anything as it's got to be phased approach to opening the line. I just thought he explained it better than I did.

No, my point was that there is a set date for opening now and wasn't the line tested several months ago, two trams running, one wrong way, to test clearances etc. and then the weekend testing of the points at St Werbugh's.

From what I saw today, every thing shouted driver training.

With regard to the tram operating system I guess it a lot of lessons have been learnt so it might be a lot quicker to fix any problems on the Chorlton line.

Just been have to a look at Chorlton station and there is now a ticket machine on the east side as well.

...no machines at Werby's yet. Maybe tomorrow...

I wonder how much the ticket is from Chorlton to St Werbough's? I can't imagine anybody buying a ticket for that journey, if you're disabled you will get free travel and I can't see anybody else being that lazy.

I didn't see a single a tram today, what time did they stop running?

...no machines at Werby's yet. Maybe tomorrow...

The machine installers were at Chorlton for at least three days. When I first saw them there was no sign of any work and I thought they must have been upgrading Morrisons computer system or summat.
Down at St Werburghs today there was a lot of cable around the ticket machine points that I don't recall seeing before.

Ian, not sure when they stopped running - they started to come back out of the depot at about 1pm and by 4 they were back with the gates closed.

I'll deffo be popping down tomorrow to see if they are out and about again!

And Chorlton, you're right, I'd not noticed all that wiring at Werbys!

Do we think the PIDs on the new line will be unwrapped and tested soon? I'm assuming they'll "open" along with the line..?

On a similar theme, the PIDS at Holt Town are switched on and maybe else-were. You can see one on the Ashton bound side where the black bags have slipped, hoorah!

The Pids in Chorlton where switched on many months ago, but then boarded them all up. I have a picture some where of the PIDs in Chorlton working. Although all they did at the time is display the time - wrongly.

One thing I noticed is each PID at a different time.

Maybe when it is all wired up correctly the time will come from central communications.

Anyway when is the Chorlton line piss up going to be? I am guessing it will be very last minute and on the day it opens.

We're on the verge of seeing a gradual opening of new Metrolink lines in phases eg, St W to Cent Pk, this could be followed by Picc to Velopark. The 1CC will be able to cope with the newly introduced extensions.

At what point will 1CC be overloaded? eg. when trams reach E Dids or Droylsden? Thus making 2CC necessary.

The Ashton line does not add any new trams to the city centre since they are just Alty and Bury to Picc trams.

Take away MC - Picc shuttle and we are fine until airport opens, we need 2CC for that at which point MC can go back to the city centre.

Workers still think they will be there till August, fixing things which are only obvious once the line is open. This might be very silly things, like lift faults, loosr rails, bins in the wrong place

...bits of track missing?

Wandering around MediaCity earlier, about 845pm... there were 4 blokes in orange jackets at the junction to the spur. Two Eccles via MC trams waiting to enter MC, one Picc via MC waiting to enter and one tram just out of MC waiting to exit.... apparently the system has crashed and after several minutes I think they move the points manually...

Still think MC bodes well for Chorlton opening on the 21st? I spoke to one of the men there and he said "it's always crashing mate, we're always down here, it's a bloody pain!". They all looked like they needed a :cheers: frankly!

Oh BTW, off topic but for the DW fans among you, in the foyer at the BBC audio studios currently stand a full-size TARDIS and RTD-era Dalek... no idea why!

Anyway when is the Chorlton line piss up going to be? I am guessing it will be very last minute and on the day it opens.

If all else fails, can I suggest 1 pm on opening day at 'THE BAR' Wilbraham Road opposite Chorlton tramstop? Depending on where the first service starts from - (if it is say, Victoria at 12 noon I would suggest the station buffet one hour before) - will confirm on here when more precise details are known, but 1 pm at The Bar, Chorlton seems ok as a fall back position. If the opening is 0530 I'll see you at lunchtime!

I am also thinking of organising a Sunday (or Saturday) afternoon walk along the East Mcr line from Piccadilly to Velopark or Edge Lane, should take about 2 hours at a leisurely pace, walking shoes (best way, better than car). Probably shortly before the line opens, nice weather etc., - lets get the Chorlton extravaganza out of the way first!!

Tony, did you happen to see what was displayed on the PID at Holt Town? Probably just the time.
:banana:

The Pids are networked devices, without communication they just display an IP address and the time (like a digital alarm clock after a power cut). What you saw with them switched on was likely just the power supply connected and a check that they worked.

The Ashton line does not add any new trams to the city centre since they are just Alty and Bury to Picc trams.

Take away MC - Picc shuttle and we are fine until airport opens, we need 2CC for that at which point MC can go back to the city centre.

Thanks LNGCats !

:bump:
Some incentive for the 1st Tunnel Photo at Didsbury Village

Okay SSCers, the tension is mounting for when they rediscover the tunnel at Didsbury Village. Who will get the first shot showing daylight from the other end of the tunnel?

I will personally give a Fiver via PayPal to the first person to post their own pic of a view through the formerly blocked tunnel showing a chink (or more) of daylight coming through from the other end. :cheer:

I've not yet forgotten or shirked on my promise! ;)

Manchester also has an advantage that other large cities don't as it's physically in the middle of its metropolitan area, so is naturally the centre of a transport network. Doncaster and Barnsley don't relate to Sheffield in the same way as Rochdale or Stockport do to Manchester (they arguably have just as close links to Leeds as Sheffield). So they'll never be the kind of consensus in South Yorkshire that has been fostered so well in Greater Manchester. I'm not even convinced Rotherham and Sheffield councils are working together that well. :bash:

Anyway in lieu of any extensions to Supertram, I'm enjoying the progress being made on your system. Keep those photos coming in everyone!

Absolutely. I've been in Manchester for nine years now but Barnsley born and bred. Whilst there are close links between Barnsley and Sheffield (especially if you live in the South of the town), Barnsley folk are fiercely loyal and they are from Barnsley and hate it if they are described as Sheffielders......... or "dee dars".

Plus Barnsley is 13 miles from Sheffield centre to centre where as many Greater Manchester towns are closer to Central Manchester and who have largely enjoyed riding the popularlity and emergence of Manchester as a dynamic City. Sheffield hasn't enjoyed anything to that extent.

The Pids are networked devices, without communication they just display an IP address and the time (like a digital alarm clock after a power cut). What you saw with them switched on was likely just the power supply connected and a check that they worked.

Now you mention it I remember laughing at the IP address they displayed. It seemed a bit of a security risk since it told the public what IP range the metrolink comms operated on. Although it was probably just a local IP address.

Half my facebook think I am geek, the other half keep asking me about when different lines will open. I have now said that 21st June is very unlikely for the Chorlton line. Do we really think in less than a couple of weeks it will be open?

Still seems far too much work to get done in about 10 working days.

I am still hopefully for June though. I can't wait for the piss up, but I do hope we get some notice as when it will open otherwise I may not be able to attend because of work.

Now you mention it I remember laughing at the IP address they displayed. It seemed a bit of a security risk since it told the public what IP range the metrolink comms operated on. Although it was probably just a local IP address.

The IP addresses are all 10.x.x.x. which are not accessible on the intranet as such they are 'safe'.

All 10.x.x.x addresses are blocked on the internet and as such many large orgs use that range for their internal addressing.

Right, going out in car to find out what is going on at depot.

Cannot get near Manc Central can I in the car???

Oh BTW, off topic but for the DW fans among you, in the foyer at the BBC audio studios currently stand a full-size TARDIS and RTD-era Dalek... no idea why!

I noticed them last week when I went to a BBC Philharmonic performance at MC. It'll have something to do with the old style Dalek not being needed for the series anymore and the Tardis being just a prop.
Having said that - both had plugs leading from them, the Tardis was actually powered up. Makes me wonder if they came from the DW exhibition in Blackpool.

LNG - can't you drive right past Manchester Central on Watson St? Or am I getting the wrong end of the stick here?

I want to see the DC stop - specifically the curve at the top of the ramp to get some photos of the track replacements.

Can you get up there very easily?

I have not driven into town for years and years.

I want to see the DC stop - specifically the curve at the top of the ramp to get some photos of the track replacements.

Can you get up there very easily?

I have not driven into town for years and years.

There are stairs at each end of the locks near all bars. Should be easy enough to get up there.

Chorlton line inbound being connected as I type.

Drove passed Stretford, outbound platform being fixed. Like DR I think the platform edge has been collapsing. New one going on.

Pictures coming later.

Trams running on Chorlton line from depot.

3017 (cannot run to Alty) has Alty on the blinds.

Outbound line to Chorlton is already connected. As it is only 9am and both lines seem to be nearly done they will have the oppurtunity to run trams over the joined junction if they chose.

Right, heading home. Not bothering with town as have stuff to be getting on with.

Btw, was it one of you guys at the junction same time as me? turned around as I walked up to meet you?

Pictures include 3017 with Alty on blind.

TMS signal under plastic wrappers still at TB and loads of guys working on the tracks...

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/1931/20110611090800.jpg
http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/3450/20110611090906.jpg
http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/2130/20110611091048.jpg
http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/9372/20110611085726.jpg
http://img813.imageshack.us/img813/8008/20110611090412.jpg

Very impressed they connected up the line so quickly! Now looming forward to seeing some trams taking that junction.

There were loads of trams with both alty and bury on their blinds in the depot yesterday, yet to see one with one of the new destinations! :-D

Very impressed they connected up the line so quickly! Now looming forward to seeing some trams taking that junction.

There were loads of trams with both alty and bury on their blinds in the depot yesterday, yet to see one with one of the new destinations! :-D

Do you think the blind will read "St Werburgh's Road via Chorlton" or just "St Werburgh's Road"

Will they say Chorlton or St Werbeurgh's Road? Seems a bit odd if they say they the latter, even though that's the last stop for now...

EDIT: Lmfao, apologies for the delay beat me to it :lol:

St Werbys surely.

Why anything else?

St Werbys surely.

Why anything else?

'cos no one knows where the f**k it is.

Chorlton line inbound being connected as I type.

Drove passed Stretford, outbound platform being fixed. Like DR I think the platform edge has been collapsing. New one going on.

Pictures coming later.

Trams running on Chorlton line from depot.

3017 (cannot run to Alty) has Alty on the blinds.

Wow they connected it up fast. I'm wondering are they going to test the junction with one of the new trams heading off towards Alty and seeing if the system copes after all as they there is an engineering block they can run the new trams down there on test. Or at least past the Chorlton junction.

I see in the background 3034 powered up, nice to see the latest tram up. As they have 24hrs maybe they are doing to do some proper testing using the OT depot trams and see how the system copes with the new junction.

Just remembered when I went past the depot yesterday there was a M5000 with Bury on it's destination blinds.

Wish I wasn't getting my hair done in town! Would love to see whats going down! Am going to have to take a depot-shaped detour on the way home I reckon :-)

Wish I wasn't getting my hair done in town! Would love to see whats going down! Am going to have to take a depot-shaped detour on the way home I reckon :-)

Go via Gmex on the way home and see whats happening!

Lol I wouldn't know where to begin getting to gmex in the car! I'm quite a terrible driver! :(

If I get what I am doing finished by about 4pm I need to do some shopping.

I will go to Morrisons by Chorlton (they are getting loads of my business recently even though I live in Sale :D ) and pop up to Manchester Central to get some pictures.

I am on a tight schedule today though so may not have time.

I am also interested in what is going on at Cornbrook, I may park up there and have a look to see if the turn back is being worked on.

I'm heading up towards the Central Park end to see the progress for myself, since I've missed Chorlton testing YET again today :ohno:

If anyone calls by OT/DC in the meantime, please keep us posted. Otherwise (or maybe regardless!) I'll cover 'em later today.

I'm heading up towards the Central Park end to see the progress for myself, since I've missed Chorlton testing YET again today :ohno:
.

Have they finished testing for the day?? That's a shame! :-(

Half my facebook think I am geek, the other half keep asking me about when different lines will open. I have now said that 21st June is very unlikely for the Chorlton line. Do we really think in less than a couple of weeks it will be open?

Still seems far too much work to get done in about 10 working days.

I am still hopefully for June though. I can't wait for the piss up, but I do hope we get some notice as when it will open otherwise I may not be able to attend because of work.
Do you know when trams will be running to the City of Manchester Stadium? Any ideas on fares from City Centre to SportsCity. Thanks

I drove along the mancunian way on the way home, they've got those works vehicles moving along the track between DC and cornbrook, along with people working on the overhead lines - hope someone gets some photos! :-D

I'll try to head down later.

My money is that both Cornbrook turnback and depot / Chorlton connections are all going in today and tomorrow.

Sitting down in Sale we have another thunder storm - hopefully that won't cause to many problems as I guess electrical storms bring a halt to this kind of work.

I'm sure all the rails and connections have been in at Cornbrook for some time - certainly I've never noticed any missing rails like the sections at Trafford Bar and Queens Road. Has driver training/testing finished today, as was thinking of popping down later to take a look?

Yep just heard thunder here too, I'm at the depot, there's 4 trams parked up on the Chorlton line, 2 side by side just south of the depot connection and 2 just north of it... no movement at the moment.

Oh and was that one of you who just asked me if there was any movement on the line? If so hi!

Martin - I headed down there around 1030 and the Orange barriers were up. But there were plenty of orange jackets reclining in parked cars so i'm guessing they were on standby! :D

LNG - agree completely. If they were getting the TB rails in place for lunch on the first day, it implies they wanna hustle...

Definitely work going on at DC. Lots of orangemen on the corner, and smoke coming from the track.

Ooh a whole bunch of drivery looking people heading for the trams...

Thanks to everyone for the updates over the last few days. Great stuff.

When the Velo Park to Piccadilly line opens where will the trams turn around at Piccadilly station to get onto the outbound line?

What gives them away as drivers? Is the intense stare in their eyes?

That and the fact they're now getting into the trams! Lol :-)

And they're off! Werburghs-bound. Tram tests ahoy!! Three of them in very quick succession.

EDIT: Make that four! :-)

Just seen 3026 at firswood!

3026, 3033, 3031 and 3032 all headed southbound.

3026 back at the depot already and off she goes again! God I'm sad :-|

I'll be out soon to join the saddos :D

Just got to wait for the Mrs to finish cleaning the kitchen :lol:

Thanks to everyone for the updates over the last few days. Great stuff.

When the Velo Park to Piccadilly line opens where will the trams turn around at Piccadilly station to get onto the outbound line?

Theres a turn back siding outside at the back of Picc Macc for the trams that dont continue to Velopark anyway.

I wish I didnt have to go to work, I would be down there otherwise, booo!

No action at the new Chorlton junction, unless you count a very rotund worker sitting on a girder reading a magazine :-) I wonder when they'll drive the first tram over it...

@martin2345uk -'twas me who met you on Ayres Rd bridge about an hour ago :) Sounds like I should have hung around. Keep the updates coming!

It looks like just those four testing up and down the line for now. I cannot comprehend how fantastic it feels to see my first Chorlton tram :D

@martin2345uk -'twas me who met you on Ayres Rd bridge about an hour ago :) Sounds like I should have hung around. Keep the updates coming!

Yeah mate literally 5 mins after you drove off they started up! :-( never mind, plenty more chances!

Anyone think there'll be any action tomorrow...?

Do you know when trams will be running to the City of Manchester Stadium? Any ideas on fares from City Centre to SportsCity. Thanks

Officially the date is still Spring 2012 but that's for the whole line to Droylsden. Rumour has it that they hope to start as far as Velopark this autumn, in time for the football season. They are certainly cracking on with that stretch and it's well ahead of the rest of the line.

I've no idea on fares.

Ok who's the guy in the little blue Volkswagen, one of you lot? :-) trams seem to be parking up now, on the Chorlton line outside the depot. Might be it for the day?

Officially the date is still Spring 2012 but that's for the whole line to Droylsden. Rumour has it that they hope start as far as Velopark this autumn, in time for the football season. They are certainly cracking on with that stretch and it's well ahead of the rest of the line.

I've no idea on fares.

I reckon the line will open as far as the Velo Park in December 2011

It was me in the blue VW. I presume you were on the phone?

Who was the bloke on the bike?

Track works complete joining lines, loads going on near Cornbrook - including new rest room for drivers (which many won't like).

Off to DC now, picies later.

No way! Not what I expected you to look like at all! Lol. How do u know I wasn't the guy on the bike! Haha. I'm not sure it is all over for today, they wouldnt leave the trams out like that would they??

Things are now moving on, cracking pics everyone.

Just thought I would share a short story with you all. Now going back some years when the testing of the Bury line was in full swing. Me and my mate one evening was taking a drive from the Queens Rd depot to follow the line, we were just passing under the bridge near Woodlands Rd when we saw our first tram, we parked up at the side of Woodlands Rd station right by the Bury bound platform, hung around and another one stopped, we got chatting to the driver and a other person, asking the usual stuff when they asked us if we wanted a ride to Bury and back.

Jaws picked up from the floor we hoped aboard, and stood in the cab for the entire way to Bury, swapped ends and back to Woodlands Rd. It was an experience I would never forget as they hadn’t even started carrying passengers and here I was in a tram. Don’t think it would ever happen now a day what with the entire H&S barb. I remember the driver was an American black guy very funny chap.:)

Rgds

Dreamweaver

I'm interested. What did you expect? I won't be offended, be honest :D

Well I didnt expect you to be a young'un basically! :)

I remember the New Yorker driver, he used to go on about 'doors on the left' etc at each stop.

Could not park at DC so getting some shopping and heading home. More picies in 30mins.

I'm 35 - not that young any more :(

Are you serious? You looked about 25, if that! Blimey, what's your secret?? Look forward to your pics!

Marni, did you and your ladyfriend see any action at Werby's when I walked past you? :)

A piss easy life :lol:

Just a quickie, this is how the trams were left parked up..

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/IMG_1269.jpg

Martin- sorry I didn't speak St Werbys, was moaning to Orange about lack of 3G. Now im home I can update; we saw one tram heading back to the depot just as we got there- missed the number but I saw my first tram on the line. Yay! The barriers were back across the footpath crossing when we left about half 3 but the 2 orange jacket crossing guards were sleeping in cars on Sidbury Rd as if waiting to go back on duty when called. It may not be over today yet.

Just a quickie, this is how the trams were left parked up..

http://i853.photobucket.com/albums/ab93/martin2345uk/IMG_1269.jpg

Anyone fancy a joyride?

This forum has erupted in a frenzy of tram spotting!

When I was a kid train spotting was viewed as deeply uncool.

Saying that, I did park next to St Werburghs stop about an hour ago and saw two test trams. Woo hoo, welcome to the spotters club me!

At the other end of the city, 1001 now has tophats.

Also, one of the forthciming pictures shows a new TMS signal literally right behind the old block signal - not sure how that will work. Will the old signal need chopping down before we see real testing?

Just uploading at the moment.

This forum has erupted in a frenzy of tram spotting!

When I was a kid train spotting was viewed as deeply uncool.

Saying that, I did park next to St Werburghs stop about an hour ago and saw two test trams. Woo hoo, welcome to the spotters club me!

Allow me to join ya! 3031, 3026 and 3032 are doing the rounds as I type.

Photos will come later, it's been a long day...

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/202/20110611151106.jpg
http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/9145/20110611151242.jpg
http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/3856/20110611151342.jpg
http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/2918/20110611152134.jpg
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/431/20110611152214.jpg
http://img808.imageshack.us/img808/5599/20110611152232.jpg
http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/8020/20110611150528.jpg
http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/2039/20110611151026.jpg
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/3884/20110611151046.jpg
http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/3973/20110611150522.jpg
http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/63/20110611152124.jpg

I bet most dislike the new restroom for the drivers at Cornbrook.

I would most definitely describe it as "functional"!

Ooh just seen my first double banana at Werbys! Gorgeous!!

Fantastic updates today guys, I can always rely on my friendly train-spotters to give me my daily updates ;)

I bet the young guy with the big hair at Werbys crossing was from this forum!!

I bet most dislike the new restroom for the drivers at Cornbrook.

Yup. Its crap - even by cheapo portacabin standards :ohno:

Great photos again btw Martin (and everybody else!)

Ooh just seen my first double banana at Werbys! Gorgeous!!

That sounds so camp.

I bet the young guy with the big hair at Werbys crossing was from this forum!!

Everyone has to mention the hair, eh? ;)

LOL right that's it, whenever anyone from this forum is out tram hunting from now on you have to wear a big badge with your username on it!

Can't wait to see the photo of the double you took, I got a crappy video of it!

That restroom might have looked ok if they'd painted it into Metrolink grey and yellow before planting it alongside the platform - it's going to stick out like a sore thumb there!

About thirty orangemen at Deansgate Castlefield as I type. It's not just the corner they're working on - the rails at the pedestrian crossing have also been ripped out. It's a proper construction site down there.

That bit of track, at the bottom of the ramp was the very last bit completed when the city centre was replaced a year or so back. I wonder if it was rushed through and not done properly?

Wow, 5 serious looking works vehicles just passed down the track at Trafford Bar towards Altrincham, one had a huge reel of copper cable.

Excellent photos chaps...as always many thanks for the time and trouble in taking and posting them.

Do you think the blind will read "St Werburgh's Road via Chorlton" or just "St Werburgh's Road"

It may be on 2 lines.



Chorlton
St. Werburgh's Road



???

Hi

Good pictures everyone who took them today :cheers: I can't wait until the start testing them trams to Oldham Mumps (I known that going be Dec when that happen) then I start taking more picture of Oldham:).

Just think if everything good to plan than in 10 more days the first passengers tram could be running on Chorlton line:).

Lot of action at Chorlton just now. Trams kept stopping at Morrison's so I assume they are testing the scheduled service. A member of the public ask me if it is opening on Monday, I explained they are still testing and training and will be open any time from the 21st.

I thought they might be doing that when at Werby's the double tram stopped and all the people got off and walked back on through different doors, one guy even joked "tickets please".

All in all very encouraging signs today.

Another quick video of a double M5000 :-)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mtAbW4u9bg

Another great video Martin. Not quite sure what the point of all this testing is though if the signals are not switched on yet. It is probably more driver training.

I can't believe how quiet they are. I actually missed a couple of trams because they are near silent. The horns might start to annoy the residents though.

Wow, 5 serious looking works vehicles just passed down the track at Trafford Bar towards Altrincham, one had a huge reel of copper cable.

Those have been parked up on the Cornbrook siding for the last couple of days....

Great photos and videos today guys.

I was down there today and managed to spot a few myself. As joydivision mentioned, they are very quiet you can hardly hear them even though they are passing at a normal speed.

One thing I did notice is the amount of interest this has generated in Chorlton. I saw a number of locals peering over the walls rejoicing that they now have a viable alternative to the 86.

I also caught a glimpse of some vehicles for working on the overhead line, this time just before old trafford.

Anyone live near Dane Road station?

Just wondering if they are doing any work on the overhead wires there?

I can't believe how quiet they are. I actually missed a couple of trams because they are near silent. The horns might start to annoy the residents though.

I love the gentle whistly hooting sound our trams make, I much prefer them to strandard bells!

"tickets please".

All in all very encouraging signs today.

Another quick video of a double M5000 :-)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mtAbW4u9bg

Excellent; thanks for posting the photos and the videos:):banana::):banana:

Anyone live near Dane Road station?

Just wondering if they are doing any work on the overhead wires there?

Yes (I can see the lines that are 'faulty' from where I am sat).

No.

Absolutely awesome photos! Were both M5000 trams under power Johnny? Some people have been saying that they could only couple up for towing, although I thought that was only when coupling to the older trams?



M5000 trams can work in multiple with each other under power (they just can't use mosley street as they have no steps)
M5000 and t68 trams can couple but only for towing (control is not compatible and M5000 trams can't release the air brakes on a t68)

It may be on 2 lines.

Chorlton
St. Werburgh's Road

???

That's exactly what I was thinking. It certainly is the most suitable option.

My batch of photos from today's testing:

http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/3782/10018111.jpg

http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/4373/1001813o.jpg

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/4922/1001814c.jpg

http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/8206/1001815m.jpg

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/3638/1001816l.jpg

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/9895/1001819e.jpg

http://img687.imageshack.us/img687/2973/1001821p.jpg

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/9736/1001817h.jpg

http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/580/1001818p.jpg

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2644/1001823i.jpg

http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/2377/1001825m.jpg

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/6376/1001827l.jpg

http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/8173/1001828z.jpg

Hopefully they've worked this time. I'll attempt my video later :banana:

Well, what a day! Apologies for posting so late, but a spontaneous power-nap ended up lasting nearly five hours. Best not to try that one again....

Sorry to keep you in suspense over the double M5000, martin2345uk, but that'll come in the next post.

After a hard night's insomnia, followed up by a fruitless mid-morning wander down to St. Werburgh's and 2.5 hours of buses (84 to Reddish, 7 to Ashton, 396 to Newton Heath :nuts:) I finally found myself at the Newton Heath and Moston stop. I got rained on three times on the way but luckily, the sun stuck around for the remainder.

The stop itself is shaping up. Not sure what the yellow things wrapped up in plastic are:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0790.jpg

Nothing on the approach except bike parking:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0791.jpg

No real change southbound:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0786.jpg

The finback is now double-tracked, but the work continues:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0792.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0795.jpg

The imposing skyline:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0799.jpg

Central Park is still the spectacle it's always been:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0802.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0807.jpg

It's hard to see clearly, but the viaduct track might be joined up to the Central Park end...

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0805.jpg

It lacks the finishing touches and opening prospects of the Chorlton branch, but Monsall is well-advanced:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0809.jpg

The site office and related clutter will need to be cleared before any prospect of opening...

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0811.jpg

...but the ramp entrance seems ready to go.

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0813.jpg

They've done a decent landscaping job, brings an upmarket feel to the stop

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0815.jpg

Smedley is still being worked on. It'll be a while before they start testing here:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0819.jpg

Rounded off with a shot of 3008, one of the few units in operation on the day. Not long before we can expect another destination on display, even if we're not sure what it'll say yet!

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0820.jpg

:banana:

Fabulous updates everybody, thanks very much, it really is appreciated.
Nymanic, your last shot is worthy of publication on some official literature. Top job, thanks for sharing.

Now for the south-of-centre action! Starting of with a reassuring sight from the tram replacement bus service:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0821.jpg

DC was being tended to by what could only be described as a small army. And they did not hold back with the trackwork - as already mentioned, the works extended to the foot crossing. Wheelchairs and prams were a no-go.

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0825.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0826.jpg

Can anyone identify the obstruction in the distance? It looks kind of like buffers to me...

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0827.jpg

Not related, but those cricket ground lights can be seen from a mile off!

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0829.jpg

1630. More proof of the connection at Trafford Bar, but the work continues:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0831.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0832.jpg

1645, and look what greeted me!

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0836.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0837.jpg

And as soon as I sprinted across to the other side of the bridge:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0838.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0840.jpg

The turnarounds were very swift.

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0841.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0842.jpg

And a few seconds after it had accelerated away, the process repeats. 3032, 3026 and 3031 came and went in the space of six minutes... :yes:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0846.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0847.jpg

I caught an 84 down to Chorlton, and after a whole two minutes of inactivity at Morrisons :lol: I strolled back down to St. Werb's. But after hearing a banana hum by, the stroll soon beame a jog...

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0848A.jpg

But on closer inspection... yup, two pantographs!

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0848B.jpg

No time to rest, though...

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0849.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0850.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0851.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0852.jpg

Martin happened to pass by around this point. I thought I recognised ya, but couldn't bring myself to take the risk! It's nice to see a forummer in the real world, though, if not a little eerie!

Cue the double, led by 3033. Here's the crucial shot (not as bad as I thought, but should've framed it landscape) :-

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0853.jpg

Did anyone catch the number of the rear unit? I panicked when I heard another tram approaching, and the pic I took fell foul of a crossing sign :lol:

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0854.jpg

A very productive day all in all, but now I need sleep. Sorry for the image bombardment - and the delay in posting them.

East Manchester Line - Vicinity of Ashton Stop

Hi there there is more movement at Ashton. There's a big borehole rig at the proposed terminus.

http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00385.jpg

The grassy verge between the Aldi and Wellington Road is now fenced off in readiness for new tracks.

http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00386.jpg

http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00387.jpg

http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00388.jpg

Bye-Bye cycleway for a couple of years!
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00389.jpg

Highway construction in central reservation close to Ikea
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00390.jpg

Mini Roller compacting the sub-base
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00391.jpg

Completed portion of highway already used by live traffic
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00392.jpg

In the foreground the hatched lines show the island for the segregated left turning lane from Cavendish Street to Lord Sheldon Way. The lane in the foreground will become Metrolink. Can you see the line of new kerbs awaiting laying? Those kerbs will mark the new segregation island. It gives an idea as to how far the highway will end up.

http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00393.jpg

http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00394.jpg

http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00395.jpg

Ducts being stored awaiting their future deployment.
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00397.jpg

View west towards Ashton West, Droylsden and Manchester
http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae306/Ashtonian_photos/Metrolink/DSC00396.jpg

Phew, page 482 contains a gallery and a half :)

Quick couple o shots of the replacement curve at Gmex from me, not amazing, quite hard to get a good shot!

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000778.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Geeves8612/P1000779.jpg

Nymanic, the buffer looking thing was a yellow trailer type wagon carrying supplies for the welding equipment

Some wonderful pictures, all this is really showing up the rest of the country. When Manchester builds a tram system we do get on with it. When the scotts build a tram system they arrange meeting about meetings and then give up :banana::banana::banana:

All these pictures make me so proud to be from Manchester. In the past ten years Manchester has become an important world class city but with a third world transport system, the Metrolink will make Manchester truely world class, or at least European class.

Again great pictures chaps...well done...as I said somewhere earlier other cities must be looking at this roll out in awe!

A very productive day all in all, but now I need sleep. Sorry for the image bombardment - and the delay in posting them.

Thanks very much for those pictures. By the time the Chorlton line is open we are going to have a great record of the testing between all you guys efforts.

Does now seem like the Chorlton Line is going to open first ahead of the Central Park section.

Next step would be ghost running from either Victoria or Piccadilly onto the branch. I'm guessing that they'd cut back the MediaCityUK line before they do that using the turn back that now seems to be complete.

The next six months is going to see lots of testing on the new sections as we may have up to four opening (hopefully) before the years end.

WOWZERS!!

I was last on this thread yesterday afternoon & then wallop, Update Central!!

A great big thank you to everyone who's posted - fantastic. I think the only future line that wasn't on there was the Airport!

This really is development at it's best!

You bet, Scouse! Gob-smacked or what??

Well, this is a momentous weekend in the history of the East Didsbury and Airport lines. I suspect those rail connections to the main line have been there in serviceable form from the outset, and they just made a little chunk of rail removable for safety purposes - so all they had to do was slot it back into place . . . It all makes me think that things will move very rapidly towards Chorlton from now and a Spring opening is definitely 'on'.

Anyway, bastard I had to be out of town yesterday, but may wander down to Elsinore Road this affo about 1pm to have a shufty. If my guesswork above is right, it can't be long before we see bananas taking the connections to the main line.

#"St Werby's" - Cats, your question releases me from my promise of not going on about this any more!! It's awkward to spell, awkward to pronounce, and as Apologies said more pithily, its location is only known to those that live in the immediate vicinity of that very nice road, including a very nice 90 year old man that I met there! Final question from me on this subject, I simply ask again, if you happen to be a visitor standing somewhere near the centre of this magnificent city sometime next year, which of these tram destinations will give you a clear idea of the general area they are heading for?: Bury, Altrincham, Eccles, MediaCityUK, Central Park, Oldham, Shaw, Rochdale, Velopark, Droylsden, St Werburgh's Road?.
Actually, I am sure Motorman is quite right, it will be a two-line destination including Chorlton. I prefer a one-liner, but we are stuck with it & it will only be temporary so I will shut up about it again! (But come to think of it, what an impressive array of destinations for the visitor, and plenty more to come!)

# Marvin, Mr Purdy will not commit to anything earlier than Spring 2012 for any services on the East line, but it is fairly obvious that it will open as far as Velopark very soon (see my earlier post a few pages back ^^)
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=866944&page=474#9462

# Macc -I think you are asking how services from the East Mcr line would reverse at Piccadilly to go back East? If so, the answer is they won't!! (Except perhaps in emergency, when I guess it would have to be Aytoun Street - other options at Picc would be convoluted, unless they could take the crossover in the undercroft to arrive at the Eastbound platform - not sure whether this is permissible in passenger service).
Again, Mr Purdy is keeping his cards very close to his chest on through workings, but the general consensus of opinion on here now, is that all services from Velopark and Eastern extensions, will work right through to Bury and Altrincham alternately.

On the way home yesterday my pathetic efforts to join in the photography only involved a couple of shots taken from the passing train - unfortunately they don't show anything, your imagination has to supply the work going on in the background - shown in terrific detail in the magnificent photo-shoots of Nymanic and others above. But it's perhaps worth including them as establishing shots on this momentous weekend :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2693.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2694.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2695.jpg

I can't express enough appreciation for all the fabulous recent postings. Monumental!

One last point for interest, I just made the following post on the 'Future' thread :-

An article in issue 115 of 'To-day's Railways' (Platform 5, out tomorrow) contains the following interesting comments by Mr Purdy :-

30% credit card sales
Addressing the 6th Annual Light Rail Conference in Manchester on 26 May, Metrolink Director Philip Purdy said that one effect of the introduction of new ticket machines at Metrolink stops was that 30% of sales were now by credit card, despite there having been no promotion of the fact that passengers could use this form of payment.

He mentioned that Metrolink was currently working on a business case for a further expansion of the network, to the Trafford Centre and Port Salford.

When I previously asked Mr Purdy about that last point and the involvement of Peel Holdings at the LRTA meeting last November, he dodged the question, but the above quote would perhaps imply more going on behind the scenes. It has also been reported elsewhere that Peel have an Application in for Regional Growth funding, and it has been all over the news this week about the further development of inland ports along the Ship Canal, including Port Salford. Does anyone have any more tit bits from the Light Rail Conference held locally in May?

The above article is also accompanied a nice photo of the interior of Old Trafford Depot, which I don't think we've seen before :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG-34.jpg

:banana:

Bloody hell what an update to wake up to! Nymanic some of your shots do indeed look professional! I wish I'd stopped to say hi now! Outstanding. Can't believe how much ground you covered and all on public transport too!

Wow and a shot of inside the OT depot! It looks immense! God I'd love to work there :(

Sorry if I sound soft, but what exactly are the works at Deansgate-Castlefield?

If I get my work done before 6pm today I will drive over to Wythenshawe and grab some pictures.

The amount of work ongoing down there is huge. It needs to be captured.

@scouse
I think they are to replace the rails that cause the 5mph restriction on the curve...

@LNG
Do you know if they've progressed beyond utility diversion in Wythy? Or are they still jut digging up streets and moving pipes..?

Utility all across Wythenshawe - from Sale Morr up to Simonsway (I did not go any further) as far as I can tell.

Loads of lane closures on the roads out there.

Quick airport area update; after seeing just one tram on the Chorlton line, i went to the viewing park for sunset and then a mooch around. Plenty of work on the Outwood Lane bridge; central reaervation is tarmaced over, and has metal shuttering sticking out already - looking like one carriageway is ready to be dug out. Also the side verges have gone, lots of plant around and lots of traffic control standing by. The car park / Ringway Rd West cutting behind the hilton now has direct access from RR West and a new steel fence is half complete between the rail platforms and Met station area. Looks like the end of the line is about to get very busy.

Thanks Martin. What will be the new speed do you know? Will make a helluva difference I'm sure.

Looking forward to seeing the Airport line really kick off too!

# Macc -I think you are asking how services from the East Mcr line would reverse at Piccadilly to go back East? If so, the answer is they won't!! (Except perhaps in emergency, when I guess it would have to be Aytoun Street - other options at Picc would be convoluted, unless they could take the crossover in the undercroft to arrive at the Eastbound platform - not sure whether this is permissible in passenger service).
Again, Mr Purdy is keeping his cards very close to his chest on through workings, but the general consensus of opinion on here now, is that all services from Velopark and Eastern extensions, will work right through to Bury and Altrincham alternately.


What I trying to work out more in question form than anything else was as the Chorlton line is going to be finished before Central Park when they start going running I was wondering where they were going to go to. In Piccadilly's case the paths have been used by the MediaCityUK services, where as Victoria no-ones actually experimented with an extra service running there and terminating. As it may affect the current services in a detrimental way.

Just voicing some though as it was pointed out quite rightly that a Chorlton - City Centre service should terminate at Victoria as it would be easy to extend to Central Park at some future point. He'll they could run ghost trams to Central Park that way and have Chorlton trams testing the CIS all the way. I'm just not sure if the Bury service could cope with terminating tram at Victoria without delaying services or have they re jigged the timetable around so that the Ex Chorlton trams have a clear run into Victoria and enough time to terminate before moving off to either the siding or onwards to Central Park on test.

Just thinking out loud here.

Cheers mack - I think TonyH1 might be your man for answering those points, but I do remember all the Eccles terminating at Victoria when Piccadilly was blockaded a couple of years back, without too much apparent problem, but of course that was only a 5tph headway. (And also how irritated a lot of people were when it reverted to Picc, having got used to commuting that way! - Perhaps another reason for having services alterating between 1CC and 2CC, when the time comes.)

Cheers mack - I think TonyH1 might be your man for answering those points, but I do remember all the Eccles terminating at Victoria when Piccadilly was blockaded a couple of years back, without too much apparent problem, but of course that was only a 5tph headway. (And also how irritated a lot of people were when it reverted to Picc, having got used to commuting that way! - Perhaps another reason for having services alterating between 1CC and 2CC, when the time comes.)

Maybe they will run services to both if it shows they can't cope. Or they just run double trams up and down the line. Where does the line of sight end northwards? Victoria station?

Wow what an update - Many thanks to everyone for all the fantastic pics! :applause:

Indeed, well done all of yous who are giving your time and effort to chronicle all the developments! :cheers:

http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/2918/20110611152134.jpg
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/431/20110611152214.jpg
http://img808.imageshack.us/img808/5599/20110611152232.jpg
http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/63/20110611152124.jpg

Excuse my ignorance, but I'm not sure what I'm looking at here. Is the disused platform with the portacabin on facing Manchester? So the turnback track means trams from MediaCity will have to pass Cornbrook twice when they terminate? If the viaduct is wide enough for 3 lines, couldn't there be a special terminating platform at the opposite end especially for the Media City shuttle service to free up availability on the 2 through platforms?

Just a few extra photos, from the work at Deansgate-Castlefield.

Creating a lot of smoke:
http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/3426/1001908a.jpg

Not quite sure what all the white buckets contained:
http://img833.imageshack.us/img833/8164/1001911h.jpg

As I mentioned yesterday, the tracks had literally been ripped out at the pedestrian crossing:
http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/1945/1001913l.jpg

And some more work further down the line:
http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/4811/1001914gt.jpg

Also, here's my video of 3026 arriving at St.Werburgh's Road. It is a little shaky, but I'll blame the camera for that:
http://youtu.be/XAiUhgQc8Ss

Glad to see they're still doing driver training today! All four trams off down to Firswood as I write! :-)

Excuse my ignorance, but I'm not sure what I'm looking at here. Is the disused platform with the portacabin on facing Manchester? So the turnback track means trams from MediaCity will have to pass Cornbrook twice when they terminate? If the viaduct is wide enough for 3 lines, couldn't there be a special terminating platform at the opposite end especially for the Media City shuttle service to free up availability on the 2 through platforms?
Yes, the disused platform is facing Manchester. There is no room at the other end for a bay platform because of the junction with the Altrincham and Eccles lines. As they have learned at Piccadilly, it is good practice to have terminating trains in a different platform to starting trains. It also means that the left platform (looking towards Mcr) is always inbound and the right platform always outbound.

Glad to see they're still doing driver training today! All four trams off down to Firswood as I write! :-)

Crikey you're resilient! It's looking a bit monsoony out there so I'll probably wait a bit... :lol:

Lol I'm so not resilient, had to nip out in the car so managed to convince myself a detour past the depot was worth it! :-p I would love to know when test trams will take the junction...

PS I tell you what, for a good view of the trams try the lesser part of morrisons car park i.e. not the bit right next to the station. There's no wooden fence here just an old wire one, you can easily see the station and get a great view of the trams as they go by!

EDIT: definitely not trying to run them at real world frequencies yet, gap between them at the moment is 2 minutes! What a real world frequency that would be!

I am still a bit hung over from the previous nights, I was out till at least 3:00am on both Friday and Saturday nights so now feel like a zombie. I now see its raining and miserable out there so I think I will give the tram spotting a miss now.

I am a bit bored of all the bananas now, it is a great site but the novelty is starting to wear off. I am now looking forward to seeing T68s running down the track

There is one waiting in the depot Ian so you could well get your wish soon, I'm assuming the Chorlton line won't exclusively use M5000s?

There is one waiting in the depot Ian so you could well get your wish soon, I'm assuming the Chorlton line won't exclusively use M5000s?

I'm guess that until the older lines are working with TMS your only going to be seeing banana's on the Chorlton line as they won't have enough trams to run the older line, least not for peak. Unless they flood both the Eccles and MediaCityUK lines with banana's and have one or two T68's on the Chorlton line.

Some pictures from a few days ago of Hardy Farm to the M60, I will post the rest of the route south later, after I have had tea...

A view from the north bank of the Mersey looking towards Hardy Farm. Note the blue tree truck. Many of the more strudy lumps that have not been removed are bright colours.
http://img121.imageshack.us/img121/3554/20110401154552.jpg

From the same bank, this time looking south. There is a two storey pub behind the bank on the opposite side but as the banks are so high you cannot see it.


http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/5669/20110401154608.jpg


The following three pictures show where the bridge will cross the Mersey - note that Jackson's Boat is visible on the final one.
http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/9965/20110401154624.jpg

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/6314/20110401154750.jpg

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/286/20110401154754.jpg

The view from the north bank, looking south along where the route will go. This area was all cleared over the winter.

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/5623/20110401154918.jpg

http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/7914/20110401154926.jpg

Same view from the south bank looking south. Note more blue tree trunks.



http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/4108/20110401154936yf.jpg

http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/7484/20110401154950.jpg

The view down Rifle Rd. Popular with bikers. Lots of activites go on around here from football on the pitches to model aircraft flying. Pub is on the left.

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/741/20110401155130.jpg

In the beer garden of Jackons Boat is a play area for the kiddies. The parents I know who take there children there are very unhappy about this whole thing - the trees they used to play in have been chopped down and they fear that it will soon be a dangerous construction site which I guess it will be.

http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/4792/20110401155154.jpg

http://img811.imageshack.us/img811/9536/20110401155158.jpg

The next several pictures show where the track will pass behind Jacksons Boat and then along earth that used to be part of Sale Golf Club. I have it on good authority that SGC got a load of money because of the land loss which they've spent wisely and now have a much better course than before.

http://img828.imageshack.us/img828/7756/20110401155252.jpg

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/1295/20110401155332.jpg

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/9428/20110401155354.jpg

http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/472/20110401155414.jpg

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/3340/20110401155418.jpg

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/6505/20110401155422.jpg

http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/1986/20110401155510.jpg

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/5991/20110401155532.jpg

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/8540/20110401155540.jpg

As you can see, plenty of water hazards to build over here.

This is very close to the Mersey and Sale Water park. The Sale Water Park stop will be at the road junction of Rifle Rd and the road that takes you to Sale Water Park car park.

Note the M60 in the distance.

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/3043/20110401155544.jpg

http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/977/20110401155610.jpg

http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/4214/20110401155620.jpg

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/7428/20110401155626.jpg

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/7821/20110401155848.jpg

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/7881/20110401155852.jpg



http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/3654/20110401155950.jpg

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/4778/20110401155954.jpg

Junction 6 of the 60 (about 1mile from Dane Rd station on the Alty line)
Here the tram will turn east and head along the north side of the M60.

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/3417/20110401155958.jpg


http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/6012/20110401160020.jpg



I will post some picies of the rest of the route later.

Great pictures, I usually cycle round there but the typical wet weather means I have not been down that way for a couple of months.

Great updates guys.

Have used the two pictures showing the Mersey and Jackson's Boat from your post above LNG and stitched them together, I hope you don't mind.

http://img808.imageshack.us/img808/771/20110401154750sch.jpg

It will certainly be a very different view in the next few years, and will be quite a sight to see a banana travelling over the Mersey here.

Nice stitching there flange! Can't even see the join!

That crossing can be no more than about 2km east of the one on the Alty line. You can sometimes hear the tram horns from that area when they cross the Mersey further up.

Interestingly the Alty line passes under the M60 yet the airport line over it.

The parents I know who take there children there are very unhappy about this whole thing - the trees they used to play in have been chopped down and they fear that it will soon be a dangerous construction site which I guess it will be.

It will only be dangerous if the kids climb over the security fences instead of up the trees....!

Yep it will be very close and it gives people who live in that part of Sale (I forget the name, its not quite Sale Moor but close to it, e.g south of Dane Road) a bit of dilema of which line to use to get to the city centre.

In fact there will be two stations with the word Sale in it on completely different lines. It is a shame that the tram will go no where near the race course estate, as I have a few customers there that tell me a car is 100% essential due to the poor bus service.

Just out of interest is there an exact map some where of where the Airport line will be?

I am planning to take a few pictures of the Didsbury line tomorrow while I am down that way. I am sure some progress must have been made in the past few weeks. I know a few people in Didsbury who work in the Salford Quays and Old Trafford areas are getting very excited about how much quicker they can get to work.

Nice stitching there flange! Can't even see the join!

Thanks martin is a nice bit of software that I downloaded a while back, and have been using it alot since on some of my photos.

Just out of interest is there an exact map some where of where the Airport line will be?

Here is a map showing where the airport line will go.

http://metrolink.co.uk/pdf/future_metrolink/airport-line/airport-line-detail.pdf

I am planning to take a few pictures of the Didsbury line tomorrow while I am down that way. I am sure some progress must have been made in the past few weeks. I know a few people in Didsbury who work in the Salford Quays and Old Trafford areas are getting very excited about how much quicker they can get to work.

Cool, I'm interested to know the latest on the Didsbury tunnel! Get some nice shots of that and I'll be your friend :)

I will do, got to the cat to the vets, and then got a few jobs so hopefully it will be after that.

If I have time I will pop down to Didsbury Road as well to see progress there.

Great shots LGN, this line is actually one of my favourite due to the sheer length and the fact that there hasn't actually ever been a railway here before. It'll serve so many people who at the moment have to take the bus, fantastic!

Looking at the maps, there's a lot of "Moors" on this line isn't there? Barlow Moor Road, Northern Moor, Moor Road ... I presume there aren't any actual Moors around Wythenshawe? :lol:

Also when can we expect the first phase of this line to open and where will the phase 1 terminus be?

Also when can we expect the first phase of this line to open and where will the phase 1 terminus be?

Been wondering this myself. With a line of this length I'm sure it will open in stages, and they have said that to airport is due 2016, so the initial stage could be much sooner.

Maybe Sale Water Park? Not too much street running, only Hardy Lane which is not exactly a busy road...

Southmoor road too :).

I imagine there would have been a lot of moors around Wythenshawe at one point as until recently even upto the 1970's it was very rural.

A major oversight seems to be that it dosn't stop directly at Wythenshawe hospital it goes close but not that close. It will be a good 6-7 minute walk. Since this is the local hospital for the vast majority of the area the line serves it seems to be a bit of a major flaw.

I expect the terminus will be some where in Baguley or that sort of area. The line will still need to serve a function, the water park is a bit pointless without further connections.

Haha oh yeah Joy must've missed that one off. Still, Airport-goers, welcome to Manchester! We're a small market town surrounded by Moors. Why not visit the local village pub? :lol:

Martin - I sure hope it'll open in stages! My bet (if a bit premature) is that it'll open to Northern Moor in Spring 2014.

That's Voldermort Black estimating that the Airport Line stage 1 will open to Northern Moor in Spring 2014.

I presume Martin, you're excited for that, because it'll mean a six minute frequency through Chorlton ;)

I presume Martin, you're excited for that, because it'll mean a six minute frequency through Chorlton ;)

Which, combined with the 6 minute Didsbury frequency will mean a tram every 3 minutes through Chorlton! (will it? Maths totally isn't my strong suit).

I thought it was a 12 minute frequency East Didsbury to town and a 12 minute frequency from the Airport to town?

It's meant to be 6 minute frequency on the Didsbury line in the peak, but airport is listed as 12 minute frequency on their site. So actually I don't know what the frequency through chorlton will be!

The next stage. Taken in the rain today...

From Golf Rd, looking towards Rifle Rd from the roundabout with Fairy Lane.

http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/11/20110612132006.jpg

You can just about make out the second arch under the bridge which is where the trams will one day pass through.

http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/300/20110612132016.jpg

As you can see there is currently a lot of vegitation on this land.

http://img805.imageshack.us/img805/1757/20110612132020.jpg

I managed to get onto the land by the motorwary and took this picture. It is very close to the final pictures in my previous posts. This picture is looking back west towards the roundabout by J6 of the M60 (where I took pictures from a few days ago).

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/2999/20110612132134.jpg

The following two pictures are from the same spot and are looking east were the trams will one day travel. Again in the distance you can see the tram arch under Fairy Lane.

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/1170/20110612132138.jpg

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/8255/20110612132150.jpg

Again looking west, the second one showing the entrance to Sale Golf club (previous pictures showed some of the fairways from Rifle Rd).

http://img863.imageshack.us/img863/9451/20110612132154.jpg

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/8936/20110612132206.jpg

The next few pictures show the poor sods that own this huge house just inside the M60. A few years ago the pylon was moved right smack into the middle of their garden - not exactly what you want out of your window. The owners reckon the house used to be worth £1m but is now worthless (the cables go right over their house). I think the pylons were moved for a mixture of M60 widening and Metrolink.

http://img860.imageshack.us/img860/4323/20110612132220.jpg

http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/5702/20110612132238.jpg

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/3342/20110612132246.jpg


This is the point at which the trams will turn south and head over the M60 towards Sale.

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/2442/20110612132456.jpg

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/4720/20110612132500.jpg

The trams will cross the motorway about 50-100m in front of this bridge (I am looking east towards Stockport).

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/46/20110612132622.jpg

And finally, one last view back west towards Sale Water park.

http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/4770/20110612132634.jpg


I have another 150 odd pictures to work through to see what is worth posting and what is not from my travels along to the airport earlier. Many were taken from the moving car due to rain and how long it was taking. Will try to get them up later but it may be tomorrow now.

Oh right well, in peak ...

From Didsbury = 6 minute frequency = 10 tph
From Airport = 12 minute freqency = 5 tph

15 tph.

60/15 = 4

A tram every 4 minutes! :)

Yup that's me, taught basic maths by a 15 year old!! Lol :-) thanks Voldy, every 4 mins is pretty ace!

Some nice photos there LNG, I hope you weren't taking photos while you were driving though!! :-p

It's gonna be a mammoth project this airport line...

I was taking photos whilst driving. It was annoying me how long it was taking.

The line is f*ing enormous.

Does anyone know?

With the amount of trees that have been felled across the entire extension network, does anyone know if they are going to be replaced like for like or with more trees?

Having lost so many trees it would be scandalous if they weren't replaced.(in full)

Thanks.

I read recently (cannot for the life of me remember where) that they were planting 5 new trees for every one they fell.

If this is true we're going to be overrun with trees!

I read recently (cannot for the life of me remember where) that they were planting 5 new trees for every one they fell.

If this is true we're going to be overrun with trees!

Thanks for that Martin.

It's good to know that the felled trees are going to be replaced in full.

All the trams that are now doing the line testing on Chorlton are new trams that will not have moved more than a few yards since they were delivered. Not only are they testing the line but they will have to do their 1000 miles acceptance mileage as well. If it is limited to the Chorlton branch they will have to go backwards & forwards 175 times . No wonder they are using doubles.

I imagine they might put the trees in different locations though as there may not be room to replace like for like.

Are these tree locations going to be within Greater Manchester or ... ?

LOL they are not that specific Ed!

Just says this (found the source)

Tree Replacement Policy

GMPTE will plant at least five young trees for every tree removed as a result of Metrolink extensions. At least two
saplings will be planted for every sapling removed. Species will be chosen for wildlife value and will normally be
native to England, and have been raised in the North West of England. Exotic species will only be used in formal
locations near stops.

By the way, in case no one has noticed - all my pictures so far have been taken from within Trafford. After Hardy Farm the track enters Trafford for some time.

I am just uploading the pictures for Northern Moor stop - you can see how the line really will be the boundary between the two authorities with Sale and Northern Moor housing literally on either side of the track.

Great update, LNG. You've really braved the elements to bring us those pics, and we appreciate it. You get a real taste of the immense scale of the upcoming works. It's a real shame they've had to take so many tree casualties along the way (I myself used to play in the spot of woodland by Jackson's Boat), but the trees will be re-planted somewhere, sometime.

Can't wait until they start work on the bridge over the M60. Another finback, probably.

Bananatrama - interesting point regarding the mileage testing. It would certainly explain why it's only 3026, 3031, 3032 and 3033 doing the rounds for now. But considering just how frequently they're running - even today - they'll reach that target pretty quickly. I'm guessing these four will be among the units running on launch day.

Chorlton testing continues apace. I'll probably not bother with future updates unless there are changes in the units used, or the T68s get some airing, as the testing is starting to get a little repetitive.

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0864.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0867.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0870.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0873ss.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0877ss.jpg

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae259/Nymanic/Metrolink%20-%20December%202009%20onwards/IMG_0878ss.jpg

:banana:

They must be expecting that stop to be a busy one - is that four ticket machines I can see underneath that waiting shelter?

After crossing the M60 the trams will pass between these houses here.

Note - the houses on the left (west) are in Sale (Trafford), the ones on the right (east) are in Northern Moor (Manchester). Clearly different cities!!!

http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/4216/20110612133000.jpg

http://img862.imageshack.us/img862/9951/20110612133006.jpg

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/941/20110612133010.jpg


The next two pictures are looking south across Sale Road this is the gap between Trafford and Manchester where the trams will on day travel. Behind the trees are houses on both sides.

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/5957/20110612133408.jpg

http://img541.imageshack.us/img541/2849/20110612133412.jpg

I am stood in Northern Moor, the tram stop will be just south of this road along side Kerscott Rd (which is in Sale and not Northern Moor).


http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/1870/20110612132920.jpg

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/135/20110612132936.jpg

A couple more pictures of the area.


http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/1773/20110612132944.jpg

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/6273/20110612132948.jpg

Southmoor road too :).

I imagine there would have been a lot of moors around Wythenshawe at one point as until recently even upto the 1970's it was very rural.

A major oversight seems to be that it dosn't stop directly at Wythenshawe hospital it goes close but not that close. It will be a good 6-7 minute walk. Since this is the local hospital for the vast majority of the area the line serves it seems to be a bit of a major flaw.

I expect the terminus will be some where in Baguley or that sort of area.

Yes Joydiv, Wythenshawe Hospital was going to be on the Western loop, which was dropped in 2005 due to being on the fringe of the built-up area, and no other stops with any great footfall. However, on the 'future' thread there has been some suggestion that the new Enterprise Zone at 'Airport City' might stimulate sufficient footfall and ergo funding, to perhaps make the Western loop viable again. A 75-metre tunnel has already been built for it underneath the Airport Station. For more details, see lrta.org or my 2010 photo tours below.

Great pix of the Mersey Valley, cats - it should be able to build up a fair lick of speed alongside the motorway.

Anyway, for me it was a wet afternoon on Elsinore Road with not much happening banana-wise. The first thing I noticed, however, was some new gleaming copper wire and plenty of overhead activity at Trafford Bar tramstop :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2715.jpg

No sign of a barrow crossing or provision for interchange however, apart from the long schlep all the way around and over, via the street behind the old booking office on top :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2699.jpg

The copper only gleams for a couple of weeks then goes dull :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2697.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2696.jpg

A shot of the depot and the diverging lines from the end of Elsinore Road, which used to continue all the way down towards the new cricket floodlights :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2706.jpg

From the same spot, Elsinore Road used to look like this :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/IMG_0001-37.jpg

To-day, a glint of yellow can be seen on the Chorlton line :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2709.jpg

I was hoping that the doublanana might come back under the underpass for the first time, but they've got their red tail lights (+hazards) on, ready for another bullet launch away from us towards Chorlton. Also an example of the numbers of newly-planted trees to replace the old ones elsewhere :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2704.jpg

Mind you, I wouldn't rule out an excursion on to the main line fairly soon. It looks ready, and the men were inspecting the junction very closely :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2700.jpg

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2702.jpg

Like at St W's, there is only that flimsy little fence now holding anything back :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2701.jpg

Can't be long now :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2716.jpg

Plenty happening at Cornbrook also, but for me, that's a story for a drier day! Rain kissed my glass :-

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx61/Johnny_de_Rivative/101_2718.jpg

:banana:

I have shed loads of pictures of the depot before the demolition started.

More picies soon.

After the Northern Moor stop I travelled the length of Kerscott Rd and end up in this location.

The first two pictures are looking back north towards Northern Moor stop. This time the houses on the left are in Sale and the ones on the right are in Northern Moor. This land does not appear to require any utilities moving.

You will spot on the track that there are blue lines - could these be utilities, where comms cables will go???

http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/1839/20110612133622.jpg

http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/9159/20110612133626.jpg

Looking the other way the trams will continue along for another 100m or so until it will turn left (east).

http://img864.imageshack.us/img864/8887/20110612133632.jpg

http://img804.imageshack.us/img804/4648/20110612133636.jpg

The tram will come from in front of this photo through the gap.

http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/3516/20110612133748.jpg

Looking east the tracks will continue through this gap in the houses. One house appears to have been demolished already, others have been boarded up in preperation to be demolished - the gap clearly was not big enough as it stands to get a double tram track through there. Another stream that needs crossing - this land is very damp - hence all the 'Moors'.


http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/6840/20110612133754.jpg

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/6907/20110612133800.jpg

Was just looking back at this thread from this time last year (literally like a year ago today) really very nostalgic and funnily enough the same weather from what I can see from various images. Big big big improvements across the network, lets just see what next year has to bring. 2012 will probably see more openings and more construction, including construction on the Airport line.

Really fantastic pictures from today people, especially from LNG. I really wasn't expecting any pictures today because of the rain, but it seems many are braver than me. Hopefully one day someone will chronicle these events and we can all look back together and cry with nostalgia.

:banana:

The trams will appear around the back of the Gardeners Arms (Northern Moor not Timperly version)

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/1943/20110612134038.jpg

The trams will come from the right hand side of this picture, the recycle bins will need shifting.

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/4021/20110612134044.jpg

The following two pictures are looking north to where the trams will arrive from Manchester from..

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/8153/20110612134102.jpg

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/1802/20110612134108.jpg

This is looking south towards Southmoor Rd - the utilities work starts here - not the fencing everywhere...

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/5651/20110612134118.jpg

The following pictures are along Southmoor Rd - loads of utilites works going on - note the bus stops are all out of use.

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/4978/20110612134310.jpg

http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/9631/20110612134316.jpg

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/2289/20110612134326r.jpg

http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/2108/20110612134330.jpg


The southern end of Southmoor Rd, entering Baguley - the edge of Wythenshawe - this is going to be a very busy junction.

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/3131/20110612134452.jpg

http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/8526/20110612134550.jpg

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/9399/20110612134554.jpg

The next set of pictures will have a gap in due to road closures.


more to follow soon.

Traveling along the side of the Roundthorne Industrial estate the trams will travel along this road on the huge grass verge on the eastern (left) side. You cannot see from these pictures but the grass seems to being dug up in preperation for this.

Note all the yellow fences, many roads are like this in Wythenshawe at the moment.

http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/8370/20110612134912.jpg

This is the corner of Holyhedge Rd and Roundthorne Rd, if the western loop ever happens it will continue straight ahead here, the eastern loop that is getting built will go left here.

http://img641.imageshack.us/img641/2866/20110612134942.jpg

About one mile of road with huge grass verges all the way through Newhall Green, this road is quite hilly, plenty of ups and downs along this section of the track.

http://img543.imageshack.us/img543/9864/20110612135102.jpg

After a short time you reach the M56.

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/7499/20110612135130.jpg

Immediately ahead the trams will continue along Holyhedge Rd - as it is one way those pictures will be later.

http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/790/20110612135144.jpg

Travelling along Simonwsway there are loads of large office blocks on the southern side of the road.

http://img36.imageshack.us/img36/8753/20110612135526.jpg

The corner of Shadowmoss and Simonsway will be a stop -below is looking back towards where we have just travelled from.


NOTE - this is about 400m from Heald Green train station - this is in Stockport, Manchester is very narrow at this point.

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/3512/20110612135604.jpg

The next three are along Shadowmoss Rd - again, more businesses on the left (east) with housing on the right (west)

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/6868/20110612135630.jpg



http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/8080/20110612135708.jpg



http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/6292/20110612135716.jpg

Turning onto the road that goes to the airport (I don't know the name) and you have more business park offices.

http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/1189/20110612135920.jpg

The end of the line.

http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/8646/20110612140036.jpg



more to come, the route back, showing the areas that I could not get to heading out of town.

I really feel chaps the photgraphs of the trams on test and the Videos on the new line should also be posted on the Transport urban planning thread...this really is history in the making!

Not another thread?! lol! Where is this one?

Good thinking.

Since I can get to the edit I will post mine from today over there.

NYmanic some superb pics there...Rail Magazine are always asking for photographs from readers..one of my favourites is cue the double led by 3033..send it in, in fact I would send a selection in for them, the address is...

http://www.railmagazine.com

goodluck!

I really feel chaps the photgraphs of the trams on test and the Videos on the new line should also be posted on the Transport urban planning thread...this really is history in the making!

NY, Futurelink et al get your pics over there as well.

Right, one load of pictures...

This time I am starting at the airport and heading back towards Manchester - going along the roads that are currently one way.

Leaving the airport, Hilton hotel on the left.

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/1373/20110612140158.jpg

Heading away from the airport around all the roundabouts

http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/3962/20110612140342.jpg

More businesses in the business park (now the enterprise zone)

http://img543.imageshack.us/img543/2360/20110612140430.jpg

Heading towards Shadowmoss Rd - track will be on the right here (I am heading east at this point)

http://img862.imageshack.us/img862/395/20110612140516.jpg

http://img857.imageshack.us/img857/1003/20110612140528.jpg

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/7108/20110612140548.jpg

Street sign tells you that you are just entering Wythenshawe - home to 70,000 people.
http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/4838/20110612140556.jpg

and then back down Shadowmoss Rd

http://img808.imageshack.us/img808/518/20110612140612.jpg

http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/8493/20110612140630.jpg

http://img853.imageshack.us/img853/8010/20110612140648.jpg

http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/7030/20110612140702.jpg

http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/6619/20110612140724.jpg

http://img828.imageshack.us/img828/8978/20110612140734.jpg

and then turning right back onto Simonsway - again wide grass verge on the side for the tram tracks.

http://img846.imageshack.us/img846/7605/20110612140804.jpg

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/5482/20110612140816.jpg

http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/6339/20110612140834.jpg

http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/8580/20110612140856.jpg

http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/2313/20110612140914.jpg

http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/5386/20110612140936.jpg

and into Wythenshawe town hall.

Looking north works going on here removing utilites, the tracks will pass through here between the forum and the Asda car park.

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/1893/20110612141006.jpg

Having driven around to the other side of the forum you can see where the tracks will go - along that road (this picture is looking south, the trams will come from he left and then turn up the road in front when heading to the airport.

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/6228/20110612141132.jpg

Continuing the jounrey towards Manchester, the tracks will be on the right here (note the fences where utilities are being moved.

http://img534.imageshack.us/img534/4920/20110612141134.jpg

http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/1151/20110612141140.jpg

http://img862.imageshack.us/img862/2762/20110612141152.jpg

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/3139/20110612141200.jpg

http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/5665/20110612141208.jpg

As the trams will turn left here down Crossacres there is Wythenshawe fire station on the right (south) - the fire station will have to have the ability to override any traffic lights to get out in a hurry.

http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/407/20110612141224.jpg

Down Crossacres towards Benchill (Shameless world). as I am heading north towards Manchester the left (western) side has a large green verge to be converted to tracks. A couple of years ago there were some demolitions of houses in this area.

http://img829.imageshack.us/img829/2305/20110612141228.jpg

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/5576/20110612141236.jpg

http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/799/20110612141252.jpg

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/3825/20110612141256.jpg

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/6130/20110612141300.jpg

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http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/7928/20110612141306.jpg

http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/3172/20110612141312.jpg

http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/1978/20110612141316.jpg

Then turning west back onto Holyhedge Rd which is full of utility diversions and is one one. It is a tad dangerous trying to drive down here and take pictures at the same time as it is a shekane (spelling???)

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/4915/20110612141334.jpg

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/9400/20110612141340.jpg

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http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/9546/20110612141348.jpg

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/909/20110612141356.jpg

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/268/20110612141402.jpg

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/184/20110612141406.jpg

http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/195/20110612141422.jpg


http://img847.imageshack.us/img847/8535/20110612141500.jpg

and back to the end of the road restriction, right by the M56 where the pictures before were up to.

http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/2301/20110612141742.jpg


Hope you've liked the pictures, I have spent ages on them.

When work gets going in anger I will re-do the trip.

All the trams that are now doing the line testing on Chorlton are new trams that will not have moved more than a few yards since they were delivered. Not only are they testing the line but they will have to do their 1000 miles acceptance mileage as well. If it is limited to the Chorlton branch they will have to go backwards & forwards 175 times . No wonder they are using doubles.

At least previously they were doing it on the Bury line in the two week gap after their delivered but before their moved to Old Trafford. Even saw 3017 running there on test one afternoon during the day rather than at night.

Updated the International Metrolink thread (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=79505266#post79505266)

NY, Futurelink et al get your pics over there as well.

Will do! :banana:

The INternational thread is another one I've never even seen, and there are some of my photos on there!

SkyscraperCity is such a huge place, I could easily get lost in the forums and subforums and subsubforums... glad that the world is getting to see the outstanding work going on here in Manchester though!

I am stood in Northern Moor, the tram stop will be just south of this road along side Kerscott Rd (which is in Sale and not Northern Moor).


http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/1870/20110612132920.jpg



I've been lurking in the forum, but thought I'd reply to this. As a regular visitor to the Sale area, I've been interested in these works popping up.

Kerscott Road is, of course, also in Northern Moor on the Manchester side of the boundary. The true boundary passes behind Kerscott Road - you can see the boundary sign plus the change to the Trafford "branded" lamp-posts beyond the junction - alongside the aptly named "Boundary Grove"

Other than Firswood - there is only one stop in Trafford - Sale Water Park.

Thanks for correcting me.

The tracks travel quite some way in Trafford along and around Rifle Rd though.

I have in-laws that live on Kerscott Rd - they always say they live in Sale :D

Does anyone NOT think as far as Werbys will be in the equivilent of zone C/E/J (is the Eccles line zone J these days???)

i.e. the 'inner zones'.

Been wondering this myself. With a line of this length I'm sure it will open in stages, and they have said that to airport is due 2016, so the initial stage could be much sooner.

Maybe Sale Water Park? Not too much street running, only Hardy Lane which is not exactly a busy road...

Haha oh yeah Joy must've missed that one off. Still, Airport-goers, welcome to Manchester! We're a small market town surrounded by Moors. Why not visit the local village pub? :lol:

Martin - I sure hope it'll open in stages! My bet (if a bit premature) is that it'll open to Northern Moor in Spring 2014.

That's Voldermort Black estimating that the Airport Line stage 1 will open to Northern Moor in Spring 2014.

I presume Martin, you're excited for that, because it'll mean a six minute frequency through Chorlton ;)

Wow I've missed a lot.

Just want to add to your conversation that under the plans for the Airport Line GMPTE gave me earlier this year Whythenshawe was to get a crossover on the Airport side of the line so there is a chance the line will open as far as that in the first stage.

But isn't it a case that the City Centre simple can't cope with the Airport Line as well as the Didsbury to Shaw & Rochdale trams? Or is there somewhere the Airport trams could terminate short? Ie Cornbrook?

I reckon there will be a turnback somewhere around Baguely. Probably between Habitat and the junction for the hospital (where the western loop would have gone).

That should allow for running as far as Cornbrook well before 2016.

I think some people don't realise just how huge that line is. Baguley is miles and mile from Chorlton, yet from there to Wythenshawe is again a long way (where I suspect another turnback) and then all the way to the airport.

I just hope that by 2016 we have the go ahead for the western loop, although I have nothing other than the enterprise zone to give me any real hope.

To be honest, a lot of the area around Wythenshawe looks to be quite rural. Will the tram be quicker than the buses though?

I'm looking forward to Phase 4, whatever that ends up being!

The bus from Wythenshawe town centre to Picc Gardens takes about 1hr 30mins.

The tram will take less than 40mins.

There is a step of ruralness as you pass over the flood plain that is the Mersey Valley.

As you can see by the heights of the banks the area is prone to flooding hence little development goes on around there.

The tracks will have to be quite well raised up.

Definitely worth it then!

It's a shame about Wythenshawe Hospital though... you'd think they wouldn't make the "Hope Hospital" mistake again. Neither Ladywell or Weaste are convenient for Hope. I too hope that they build the western loop, as it will open up Metrolink to even more people.

Perhaps TfGM could take a leaf out of Vienna's book, where Vienna has lots of feeder buses which feed into the metro system. A set of short-distance, tram-service frequency feeder buses into the Metrolink network might do the trick.

Could that might be a good way of extending the benefits of Metrolink to the western side of Wythenshawe? TfGM could bring in a few of them accross the network and give them an "M" numbering system perhaps (now Arriva have shook off the last shackles of Ribble's numbering with the M10 in Eccles/Salford)?

Just a thought, one I'm sure has been discussed here before!

The bus from Wythenshawe town centre to Picc Gardens takes about 1hr 30mins.

The tram will take less than 40mins.

There is a step of ruralness as you pass over the flood plain that is the Mersey Valley.

As you can see by the heights of the banks the area is prone to flooding hence little development goes on around there.

The tracks will have to be quite well raised up.

I'm pretty sure that both the 43 and the 101 take less than an hour. The journey times are still more than 50 mins though, so the tram will definitely be quicker, and of course it will also connect other areas with each other.

Yeah the 43 is the direct one and takes around an hour from the airport. Not got it for years though since I now drive. I know what some people in Wythenshawe do is get the bus to the airport and then get the train into town from there, as its so much quicker.

Phew, new page at last! The previous was so heavily laden with fabulous photos that it was hanging my lappy :lol:

Amazing update back there LNG - well done & thanks!

Yeah the 43 is the direct one and takes around an hour from the airport. Not got it for years though since I now drive. I know what some people in Wythenshawe do is get the bus to the airport and then get the train into town from there, as its so much quicker.

That seems sensible; it's that sort of thing I'm talking about, nothing crazy or over the top, just some bus links into the tram network, whose sole purpose is to be a feeder route, something similar to the Little Gems. I would be best used for people who are just outside of the catchment area for walking to tram stations, but far enough away from Manchester for it to be a long bus journey, another example could be Royton, connecting with Derker.

I don't think we've every tried this in GM, correct me if I'm wrong. Of course it would be easier if we had a "GMT" style provision for buses, but that's another kettle of fish :lol:

Technically all the bus routes that connect to transport hubs or interchanges are feeder services.

The best example of feeder buses in the UK is at Addington Village near Croydon. Some of them are longer bus routes that happen to terminate there for onward tram connections towards Croydon but some of them are very short dedicated feeder routes connecting nearby estates. There was some controversy as some routes were truncated at the interchange forcing some people who previously travelled the whole way to Croydon on the bus to change onto the tram. Obviously things like this can be done there because they don't have bus deregulation.

There are a few feeder bus routes to the Nottingham tram system in Bulwell.

GMT used to have an 'Interlink' branded network around Altrincham in the 70s/early 80s which acted as feeders to the train. Don't know how successful this was I was only small at the time.

That seems sensible; it's that sort of thing I'm talking about, nothing crazy or over the top, just some bus links into the tram network, whose sole purpose is to be a feeder route, something similar to the Little Gems. I would be best used for people who are just outside of the catchment area for walking to tram stations, but far enough away from Manchester for it to be a long bus journey, another example could be Royton, connecting with Derker.

I don't think we've every tried this in GM, correct me if I'm wrong. Of course it would be easier if we had a "GMT" style provision for buses, but that's another kettle of fish :lol:

Good point overall ! That's what integrated transport is about.

I think it's been done in GM before. The best example is the shuttle bus from Stretford to the Trafford Centre.

Good point overall ! That's what integrated transport is about.

I think it's been done in GM before. The best example is the shuttle bus from Stretford to the Trafford Centre.

They need to sort the integrated ticketing in general. I look forward to ditching my bus pass in favour of one for the tram but I know there are going to times when I end up having to buy separate bus tickets. Either that or watch buses sail past while walk for 5 minutes, then wait 6 minutes for a tram. Feeder buses won't work unless tickets are integrated.

Stagecoach/First bus single tickets and day passes are ludicrously expensive. This helps keep the buses moving quickly by promoting the use of weekly and monthly passes, which are good value for money.

Compare the speed a Magic bus makes through studentsville to a Stagecoach bus. Magic buses do have reasonable single fare and as a result everyone gets them, pays cash, and holds everything up while they're counting their coppers. The journey can take a 3rd longer.

In order to travel efficiently you have to maximise the use of available transport options. There should be reasonable ways to pay for this using a ticketing system that covers them all. You should be able to get on what you want when it suits you.

The benefits of sorting integrated ticketing out would be be far more beneficial than, say, paying for and building the Trafford Centre line.

That seems sensible; it's that sort of thing I'm talking about, nothing crazy or over the top, just some bus links into the tram network, whose sole purpose is to be a feeder route, something similar to the Little Gems. I would be best used for people who are just outside of the catchment area for walking to tram stations, but far enough away from Manchester for it to be a long bus journey, another example could be Royton, connecting with Derker.

I don't think we've every tried this in GM, correct me if I'm wrong. Of course it would be easier if we had a "GMT" style provision for buses, but that's another kettle of fish :lol:

Royton centre to Derker by bus + the tram journey wouldn't really save much, if any, time at all I suspect.

They need to sort the integrated ticketing in general....

Stagecoach/First bus single tickets and day passes are ludicrously expensive.

I totally agree. If they ever get the readycard up and running, it will be a boon to the Met County as a whole. The simplicity of touching in and out with Oyster is something that really we should have been doing for years. Without regulated transport though, it's harder to implement.

To get to my work, it can either be a Bluebird, Arriva, First, Stagecoach, (+Maytree when the 9 starts to MediaCity), then a train if I go in Manchester, so a uniform fare/transport policy would be welcome from my POV!

Anyway, I digress from the topic at hand...

Hi

Have they do any more testing on Chorlton Line today and have anyone be on a tram near G-mex where they be doing work they.

Also do anyone know if next Tuesday be the day when Chorlton line finally opened.

Good Picture to everyone who took them thanks.

Looks like posting some of the great pictures on the International thread has paid off, new names and posting cropping up on the Manchester Metro Extention thread...all very welcome of course.

Wow- thanks LNG for the pics of the Airport route - very informative.

With regards to buses etc. - in my humble opinion bus routes need to be re-regulated and integrated with each other.
As what is going to happen in West Yorkshire, and already does in London, TfGM should set all routes, timetables and fares and tender them out to private operators (Stagecoach, First, Arriva, Go-Ahead, Finglands etc) over a franchise system. TfGM could repaint buses in a single corporate livery to create a sense of unity and co-operation.
Tickets purchased for one operator should be valid for every other and should be intergrated with Metrolink and possibly rail services within GM, since all revenue would be collected by TfGM and divvied up between the bus operators as what happens in the railways.

This is just an idea and is open for comment.

I totally agree. If they ever get the readycard up and running, it will be a boon to the Met County as a whole. The simplicity of touching in and out with Oyster is something that really we should have been doing for years. Without regulated transport though, it's harder to implement.

To get to my work, it can either be a Bluebird, Arriva, First, Stagecoach, (+Maytree when the 9 starts to MediaCity), then a train if I go in Manchester, so a uniform fare/transport policy would be welcome from my POV!

Anyway, I digress from the topic at hand...

The Nine?

I wouldn't say WYPTE are anywhere near what you suggest. Lets wait and see what actually happens in WY. If it works, lets copy them, if it fails and there is a reasonable chance it will we have not adversely impacted the poorest in society who most rely on the bus.

With regards to buses etc...

This is just an idea and is open for comment.

Few would disagree with you, LRC. The problem is that implementing it would cost money. Lots. Something which, sadly, isn't available.

Few would disagree with you, LRC. The problem is that implementing it would cost money. Lots. Something which, sadly, isn't available.

I'm not sure that TFGM have the powers to do it, even if they wanted to.

Stagecoach/First bus single tickets and day passes are ludicrously expensive. What makes you think integrated ticketing would be cheaper? Having a daily cap so it didn't matter which bus or other mode you use would be good though.

hi guys heard today they are hoping to have it open on the 27th june, fingers crossed :banana:

And I heard today that they were planning to open it at the beginning of July!

I'm deffo hoping for June though!


I have a question about that shack at Cornbrook that's just been built...

So I assume it's for when the MC Service starts operating to and from Cornbrook... so what happens? Does the tram pull into the central siding between the 2 main tracks, then the driver has to climb out of the cab and walk along the ground to get to the shack? Is there something in the layout that I've missed?

Two weeks today then!
13 days as of tomorrow morning.
Gosh, I'm getting excited and I don't even live in Chorlton/Firswood! :lol:

What makes you think integrated ticketing would be cheaper? Having a daily cap so it didn't matter which bus or other mode you use would be good though.

and that cap would be the same as if electronic ticketing was not used.

London massively subsidises their bus routes - please do not compare what has happened there with cheap simple to use Oyster cards with what we may get - it may well be vastly different.

hi guys heard today they are hoping to have it open on the 27th june, fingers crossed :banana:

Just 14 more sleeps :)

Hopefully.

Smart Ticketing aint cheap, according to TfL 40% of revenues earned go on the upkeep of the Oyster Card.

And I heard today that they were planning to open it at the beginning of July!

I'm deffo hoping for June though!


I have a question about that shack at Cornbrook that's just been built...

So I assume it's for when the MC Service starts operating to and from Cornbrook... so what happens? Does the tram pull into the central siding between the 2 main tracks, then the driver has to climb out of the cab and walk along the ground to get to the shack? Is there something in the layout that I've missed?

Its driver rest facilities, the siding a tram reverses in is just beyond it.

I have a question about that shack at Cornbrook that's just been built...

So I assume it's for when the MC Service starts operating to and from Cornbrook... so what happens? Does the tram pull into the central siding between the 2 main tracks, then the driver has to climb out of the cab and walk along the ground to get to the shack? Is there something in the layout that I've missed?

The driver will turnback the tram, pull-up at the station and the drivers will swap then surely?

The driver will turnback the tram, pull-up at the station and the drivers will swap then surely?


yes it will be similar to that but not been told yet! when the Chorlton line opens it will be running through to victoria! then when the oldham line opens to central park, trams will run central Park to St Werburgh's Road

yes it will be similar to that but not been told yet! when the Chorlton line opens it will be running through to victoria! then when the oldham line opens to central park, trams will run central Park to St Werburgh's Road

Have you been on a jaunt down the Chorlton line yet Metman?? :banana: