Severe delays on Metrolink services with tram line fully suspended due to ice
17.01.2024 - 08:43
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
There are severe delays across the Metrolink in Greater Manchester this morning due to icy weather.
After temperatures plummeted to below freezing overnight, ice on the overhead lines is causing issues on the trams. Currently, according to the Bee Network website, the Rochdale line is suspended.
This is affecting services between east Didsbury and Rochdale town centre. The line will be suspended 'until further notice' with trams unable to move 'at any speed'.
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Ticket acceptance is being accepted on the 57, 59, 76, 81, 83, 114, 149, 181, 182, 409, 411 and 415 buses. Northern Rail are also accepting tickets between Rochdale and Victoria Station.
There are also 'severe delays' on the Bury line, from Altrincham to Bury and Bury to Piccadilly. Ticket acceptance is in place on the 17, 18, 41, 52, 53, 56, 59, 66, 90, 95, 97, 98, 112, 117, 118, 119, 135, 156, 163 and 524 bus services.
Across the entire tram network, there are 'minor delays' due to the ice on the overhead lines. Metrolink apologise to customers for inconvenience caused.
This issues come as a yellow Met Office weather warning for snow and ice remains in place until lunchtime. Forecasters warned of delays on public transport this morning after temperatures dropped into minus figures overnight and remain freezing this morning.
TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughan, apologised for the delays. He said they hope to increase the number of 'ice breaker' trams overnight to avoid a repeat tomorrow.
Mr Vaughan said: "This morning’s service is not good enough for passengers and I’m sorry for anyone whose journey is impacted. Significantly low temperatures and freezing fog overnight has caused