Opening of Rochdale Metrolink line delayed

The opening of the Rochdale Metrolink line has been delayed.

Tram services to Rochdale railway station originally planned for spring next year (2012) will not begin until the summer. 

The delay has been put down to problems with the new signalling  system which is said to have a ‘consequential impact of two to three months on the opening of the line.’

The news comes as Transport for Greater Manchester announced that the new south Manchester line will be open at the end of month.

Delays have also hit the Oldham line.

Philip Purdy, Transport for Greater Manchester’s Metrolink Director, said: “We want to get all of our new lines open and in service as soon as possible, I know that people will want to be using their Metrolink. But we can’t rush what we are doing and I would urge our potential customers along the Oldham line to please be patient.

“We have learned from our experience of integrating the new tram management system at MediaCityUK and the new Chorlton line.

“Metrolink does more than just help people get from A to B, it is a key catalyst for regeneration along the routes it serves. We are building for the future of Greater Manchester and this is another step on that journey.”