Metrolink stop name change to help BBC staff

The GMEX Metrolink stop will be renamed Deansgate-Castlefield, GMPTE said, to coincide with the launch of the new Media City UK spur.

Manchester City Council asked for the change to reflect the actual location of the stop "in order to help residents and visitors who use the tram to get around Manchester."

The stop was originally named after the exhibition centre, but the GMEX venue became Manchester Central in 2007. GMPTE, which owns the Metrolink network, has agreed to include the change when it refreshes all stop information on the system to include the new spur to Media City UK in Salford Quays, which is due to open in late summer. This means the new stop name will be added to all passenger information across the network, including ticket machines and maps.

Philip Purdy, GMPTE's Metrolink director, said: "We're happy to work with Manchester City Council on this matter, particularly as it coincides with the work we'll be doing to refresh all passenger information to include the launch of the new Media City UK line."

Cllr Sue Murphy, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, said: "The information update at all stops was the perfect opportunity to change the name from GMEX to Deansgate-Castlefield, to reflect the location of the stop.

"It is hoped that this will dispel any confusion over the existing name of GMEX, and help our residents and the thousands of visitors to the city."