Trams running again after major repairs to Victorian tunnel completed on time

Saturday, 1 November 2025 17:27

By David Murphy

Services between Crumpsall and Bury have resumed after urgent repairs were carried out on a historic Metrolink tunnel to ensure safety for decades to come.

Essential structural work at the Whitefield Metrolink Tunnel has been completed, allowing trams to once again run between Crumpsall and Bury after a six-day closure.

The 19th century tunnel, which forms a vital part of Greater Manchester’s light rail system, was temporarily closed after a routine inspection revealed a fracture in one of its iron roof beams.

Work began on Saturday 25 October and concluded on Thursday 30 October, during which modern precast concrete roof beams and supports were installed to replace the damaged structure. The project, carried out by Metrolink’s operator KAM and its contractor Story Contracting Ltd, was aimed at futureproofing the route.

Ian Davies, Metrolink’s Network Director, praised the teams involved:

“Replacing beams in a tunnel dating back to the Victorians was never going to be a simple task, particularly given the tight space and the close proximity of essential utilities like gas, fibre and water mains. Thanks to everyone’s efforts, we’ve completed the work on time and trams are running again between Bury and the city centre.”

While trams have resumed service, work on waterproofing the tunnel begins next week, followed by the reinstallation of utilities. Landscaping and street furniture reinstatement will be completed in the coming months.

The tunnel closure also gave Transport for Greater Manchester the opportunity to conduct other works, including surveys and substation upgrades near Heaton Park. These upgrades are part of a wider strategy to improve resilience across the Metrolink network, enabling it to support increased tram services in future.

Additional improvements are planned at substations in Hagside and Collyhurst, with the goal of supporting regional growth, improving air quality and encouraging more public transport use.

TfGM reminded passengers that further essential works will take place this weekend, with no trams running between Cornbrook and Sale Water Park, East Didsbury or Old Trafford on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November.

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