Preparation for Metrolink

Image: © Peter Whatley Taken: 19 Jan 2011

At the north end of Rochdale station work is underway associated with the downgrading of the former Oldham loop railway to a Metrolink tram line. To enable the trams to access Rochdale's town centre, the tram line must cross the railway using an acutely skewed bridge which is visible in the background. Space and cost limitations mean that the new tramway will only be a single line between Kingsway and Rochdale station. The line will lead to demolition of Rochdale signalbox (seen left). The tramway bridge's specification calls for "natural steel", also known as unpainted or rust! Whether these extensive and very expensive works, plus associated tasks will be money wisely spent, compared to a simple bus shuttle into Rochdale from its station, time alone will tell.

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