Launch date confirmed for Rochdale Metrolink line

Rochdale's town centre Metrolink line will open to passengers on Monday 31 March, subject to final testing.

The final stage will start on Thursday 27 March and will see out-of-service trams running along the route every 12 minutes, to complete the commissioning of the new infrastructure.

The first in-service tram to leave the new Smith Street stop will depart on Monday 31 March at 5.53am.

The opening of the new line is part of a multi-million pound regeneration of the town centre that will completely re-shape the Rochdale skyline.

Cllr Andrew Fender, chairman of the TfGM committee, said: "Rochdale town centre is a fantastic new destination for Metrolink passengers and the latest piece in the expansion of the network.

"This new line takes people right into the heart of the town centre at a time when really exciting changes are being made. Metrolink is going hand in hand with the transformation of the area and it's a great thing to be part of."

The town centre line will bring the size of the current Metrolink network to 48.5 miles, serving 77 stops.