Railway innovation to help renewal of Manchester’s Metrolink tram network

The first freight trains delivering materials for the renewal of Manchester's Metrolink tram network have started regular operations.

Under a contract awarded by Carillion on behalf of the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE), EWS Network will provide engineering trains for the upgrade of nearly 20 miles of track between Bury and Manchester Victoria, and between Altrincham and Trafford Park stations.

EWS Network will adapt its normal engineering services used on the traditional rail network for this contract. Tailor made operations with unique specialist equipment will be used for the renewal of the MetroLink by GMPTE as part of their £102 million investment in the network.

Over the coming months until late September 2007, EWS Network will operate freight trains for the haulage of ballast, railway sleepers and rails for stockpiling leading up to the start of upgrade work on the track. EWS Network will then provide locomotives, wagons and train drivers to work within the parts of the network closed for the upgrade. This includes specialist locomotives that can operate within the restricted clearances on the Metrolink network.

Mick Tinsley, EWS Network Market Manager Rail Industry Services, said: "This is an important renewal project for Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive. The skills EWS Network has on the railway will be utilised to deliver innovative and value led services on the tram network. By using specialist machinery to fit within the unique size of parts of the tram network, we will be able to deliver to GMPTE and Carillion a full and reliable service as part of the overall project."

Mr Tinsley continued: "GMPTE, Carillion and EWS Network are visiting schools to warn children of the dangers of trespassing on a busy construction site. With the Easter holidays fast approaching we look to parents to remind their children of the dangers of trespass. The message is simple. Stay safe and keep off construction sites and the railway."