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Metrolink to be run by Stagecoach for next decade

16/07/2007

Stagecoach, one of the country's most prominent transport firms, has taken over the running of Greater Manchester's light rail system.

As from yesterday (July 15th), Stagecoach will manage the Metrolink system, including the track and the stops, for the next ten years.

Stagecoach, which takes over from Serco, already has experience of operating a similar network in Sheffield.

Andy Morris, Stagecoach's light rail managing director, said: "We'll be working hard to ensure we deliver both existing passengers and new users an excellent service.

"The infrastructure improvements taking place this summer will help create a solid foundation to take Metrolink forward.

She said that the creation of new lines will make Metrolink available to even more passengers. There are already plans to add eight new trams to the system in 2009.

Stagecoach takes over at a time when the network is undergoing a major overhaul.

Almost 20 miles of worn-out track on the Altrincham line is currently being replaced as part of a £100 million project.

Trams will continue to run between Old Trafford and central Manchester until the end of the month before the whole line from Altrincham to Cornbrook closes for August.

Nearly 30 extra buses every hour have been laid on, while extra carriages have been introduced on a number of Altrincham-Manchester trains.

Work is also underway on the tramlines between Manchester and Bury, which is expected to be finished in September.

According to the local transport authority, passengers now make 55,000 journeys on Metrolink every day, amounting to nearly 20 million a year.



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