Millions to be spent on tram tracks

11:48am Wednesday 15th November 2006

Worn-out tracks on Greater Manchester's Metrolink network are to be replaced in the first phase of a multi-million-pound upgrade.

Nearly 20 miles of dilapidated track will be replaced next summer in and around Bury and Altrincham. Parts of the track are more than 50 years old and are badly in need of replacement.

David Leather, interim chief executive of the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive, said: "The track on the Bury and Altrincham lines is rapidly approaching the end of its natural life.

"It is noisy for residents and uncomfortable for passengers.

"It is also making the service unreliable as the Metrolink vehicles need frequent repairs."

He added: "I hope passengers will bear with us while the work takes place as it will lead to a major benefit for the network.

"Journeys on Metrolink will be much smoother and more reliable once it is complete."