Manchester Metrolink launches free wifi service on all trams

Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of the TfGM Committee, with Steve Jukes, Icomera Head of UK Operations, at the St Peter’s Square Metrolink stop.

A free wifi service has become available on all 96 Manchester MetroLink trams.

Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of the TfGM Committee, with Steve Jukes, Icomera Head of UK Operations, at the St Peter’s Square Metrolink stop

The £1.7 million investment has allowed Metrolink trams to join the 20 Metroshuttle buses that already provide a free wifi service on city routes.

The move is part of an innovative £7.25m scheme run by Manchester City Council, Salford City Council and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) – with funding from Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK), part of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Investment plans also include provision of free wifi in 211 public buildings in Manchester and Salford.

Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of the TfGM Committee, commented: “Metrolink is not only the largest light rail network in the UK, but now also the first light railway in England to become fully wifi capable, symbolising the region’s digital ambitions.  

“With over 30 million passenger trips made on Metrolink every year, this will help hundreds of thousands of people make the best use of their travel time with quick and simple access to free wifi.”

Culture Secretary, Sajid Javid MP, said: “I’m delighted that Manchester has taken up the challenge to become one of the UK’s Superconnected Cities as part of the Government programme. It’s vital that our cities have the digital infrastructure – like superfast broadband and wifi – in place to deal with the demands of the digital age.”

The wifi system, developed by Icomera, will request a simple registration before using the facility for the first time. Once complete, passengers will be able to use the service for free.