Metrolink one step closer to Rochdale as track-laying begins

The arrival of Metrolink in Rochdale will be one step closer this month, with track-laying work beginning at Rochdale railway station on 25 October and a new stop being built at Maclure Road.

The new Metrolink line will be open from Manchester to Central Park in spring 2011, Oldham Mumps in autumn 2011 and to Rochdale railway station in spring 2012.

GMPTE has also recently announced new Metrolink extensions through Oldham and Rochdale town centres. The Rochdale town centre extension is expected to open by spring 2014, and GMPTE is currently planning the initial design and investigation stage of the project.

GMPTE’s Metrolink Director Philip Purdy said: “When we begin work to lay the new track and prepare to build a Metrolink stop on Maclure Road this month, the extension to Rochdale railway station will start to take shape.

“This work is an essential stage in bringing Metrolink to Rochdale and providing tram links via Oldham to Manchester city centre and beyond. We would like to thank residents, commuters and businesses for their patience while the construction is underway.”

As a result of the Metrolink expansion work, High Level Road will be closing permanently and Maclure Road, from the fire station to the railway station, will be closed until mid-2011.

Parking will be suspended along Station Road, Maclure Road and outside Rochdale railway station, and the existing taxi drop-off point will be moved.

Any diversions to bus services will be indicated at bus stops.

GMPTE will continue to keep local residents and businesses informed as the work progresses. In the meantime, members of the public with queries about the work or the Metrolink extensions in general can contact the Metrolink Stakeholder team during office hours on 0161 244 1555 or email [email protected].

Further information can also be found at www.gmpte.com/futuremetrolink.