The overhead lines powering Metrolink trams in the new Exchange Square tram stop in Greater Manchester, UK, have gone live.
Carrying a current of 750V DC, the lines will power trams along the first phase of the Metrolink Second City Crossing to Exchange Square in the city centre.
The overhead equipment has been installed between Manchester Victoria Station along Corporation Street to the new stop in Exchange Square and through to Market Street/St Mary’s Gate.
TfGM Metrolink director Peter Cushing said: "This is the first stage of an extensive testing and commissioning process to make sure the physical infrastructure is ready for passenger services in the run up to Christmas.
"We’re writing to local residents and businesses to make sure they understand how to live and work safely alongside the new tram route, as they do in other parts of the city centre already.
"Once this work has been carried out and we’ve completed finishing works at the stop, we’ll be able to run test trams in advance of passenger services opening before Christmas."
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By GlobalDataTwo safety leaflets are being circulated among the residents and property owners.
The first phase of the Second City Crossing from Manchester Victoria through to the new Exchange Square tram stop is being fast-tracked with the help of a grant from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
The entire Second City Crossing line, which will connect Lower Mosley Street and run through St Peter’s Square, down Princess Street, along Cross Street and Corporation Street and into Manchester Victoria Station, is scheduled to be opened in 2017.
Image: The new Metrolink stop at Exchange Square. Photo: courtesy of Transport for Greater Manchester.