Buses to replace trams for works

AN ARTIST'S impression showing the new Metrolink stop in St Peter's Square, due to open at the end of August

A RAFT of replacement bus services will run through Manchester city centre during summer transformation work to Metrolink.

From Sunday to the end of August there will be changes to tram services as work draws to a close at the new St Peter's Square stop and essential track maintenance takes place along the Eccles line.

A combination of Metrolink and replacement bus services will ensure transport links across the tram network are maintained while there are no tram services through St Peter's Square.

During the first phase, until early August, the following bus services will run:

The X1 service will operate at peak times only (Monday to Friday, 7-9.30am and 3.30-8pm) calling at Piccadilly, Trafford Bar and Cornbrook.

The X2 service will operate all day (to first and last tram times) calling at Piccadilly and Deansgate-Castlefield and most stops along the Eccles via MediaCityUK line. The X3 service will operate at peak times only (Monday to Friday, 7-10am and 3.30- 8pm) calling at Piccadilly, Trafford Bar, Cornbrook and MediaCityUK.

Bus services will depart approximately every 10 minutes, together providing an enhanced service every five minutes between Piccadilly, Cornbrook and the MediaCity stop in peak hours.

Passengers will need to have a valid Metrolink ticket or pass before boarding the bus.

Replacement bus services will be continually monitored and reviewed to help ensure they meet customer needs.

TfGM will open a new, much larger stop in St Peter's Square at the end of August.

When the new Metrolink Second City Crossing opens next year it will allow more trams to run through the city, more often.