Transport bosses are warning of service changes this weekend after another cracked rail was discovered in Manchester city centre.

A 10-metre section of rail on Portland Street – located between the Piccadilly Gardens and Piccadilly stops – will be replaced between 5pm on Saturday, April 6 and 5am on Sunday, April 7.

The work means no services can run between Victoria and Piccadilly train station.

Ashton trams will run between Piccadilly and Ashton, with Eccles and MediaCityUK services running to Cornbrook. All Altrincham trams will run to Bury.

Replacement buses will be in operation for passengers travelling between Victoria and Piccadilly and between Piccadilly and Cornbrook.

All other trams will operate as they have been.

In January, a cracked rail discovered between Victoria and Exchange Square has meant no trams can travel directly between the two stops – meaning Rochdale-bound services have had to travel via Market Street.

Once the cracked rail on Portland Street has been replaced, trams will operate to regular Sunday timetables from the start of service at 6am.

Danny Vaughan, TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, said: “Since identifying the rail defect we have moved quickly to put in place plans to replace it as soon as possible, and we expect normal service to resume on Sunday.

“However, there will be temporary service changes on specific lines on Saturday afternoon and into the evening, and I would encourage anyone planning to travel on Metrolink during this time to plan ahead and check our social media channels and website for the latest information and advice.”

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