Part of the Manchester Metrolink line to Eccles will be partially closed for most of April because of planned engineering works.

The line will be closed from Monday, 4th to Friday, 29th April to allow essential maintenance work to take place. This is the latest in a series of planned track renewals, and is the second phase of activity on the Eccles line this year, with several further phases of work planned for later this summer. The work will involve replacement of worn rails in a number of locations between Eccles and MediaCity UK.

Tram services will continue to operate as normal between Ashton and MediaCityUK, with more double trams on the line. A like-for-like bus replacement service will operate between Eccles and MediaCityUK.

At busier times, Metrolink staff will also be available at key locations to assist travellers in making their journey.

A dedicated travel advice page is available here that provides information on alternative travel options to allow passengers to plan their journey in advance.

A website giving the latest information on the route upgrade works and travel guidance is available here.

Transport for Greater Manchester‘s Head of Metrolink, Daniel Vaughan, said: “We’re sorry for the inconvenience we know this partial closure of the Eccles line will cause, but we will be doing everything we can to minimise disruption.

“The Metrolink Eccles line is undergoing a planned programme of essential maintenance works to replace the 20-year-old rails and ensure we can continue to operate a safe and reliable service for years to come.”

“We’ll have a like-for-like bus replacement service in place, staff out along the line and contractors working around the clock to complete this project as soon as possible. I’d encourage customers using the network to plan ahead and allow extra time when making their journey.”