Background
With the introduction of the 27 new trams, a depot stabling strategy was developed which determined substantive works were required to create additional spaces for the new trams to be parked overnight or when not in service. The strategy also allows the space in the depot to be used more efficiently when operating and maintaining the vehicles, whilst protecting future expansion opportunities.
Objectives
There are currently two Metrolink depots in Manchester; one on Queens Road in Cheetham Hill and another in Trafford. Works to provide additional tram parking facilities at Trafford Depot were completed in early 2020. This included the reconfiguration of platforms to allow cleaners to access more trams when they are parked, additional walking routes to navigate through the depot, and created an additional 6 positions for trams to be parked and cleaned, whilst also leaving space for a further 12 spaces in the future, if required. Further adjustments were also implemented to accommodate the increase in frequency of the use of double tram units as part of the proposed service patterns.
The Queens Road Depot Expansion works will provide the additional capacity required to accommodate the additional 27 trams.
Current Progress
Site surveys and ground investigations are complete, with the design for the expansion of Queens Road Depot underway. Construction commenced in March 2022 and is expected to conclude in Summer 2023.
Queens Road Depot Proposed Expansion outline plan
Photographs from the aerial survey of the Depot taken prior to construction
