Live Metrolink Update: Ashton Line services suspended after tram fault at Piccadilly
Morning disruptions hit Manchester’s Metrolink network after a tram fault at Piccadilly station forced the suspension of all services on the Ashton Line. The issue, confirmed by the Bee Network, has left the line temporarily out of service as engineers work to resolve the fault and restore safe operations. Commuters are being advised to seek alternatives and plan extra travel time as city centre services experience changes.
What happened and current status
According to Bee Network updates, a tram fault at Piccadilly is the cause of the disruption. As a result, all stops on the Ashton Line are affected and Metrolink services are not operating as usual this morning. The fault is localized to Piccadilly, but the ripple effects are felt across the network’s city centre routes.
Bee Network has confirmed that while trams are suspended on the Ashton Line, some bus services will operate to bridge the gap for passengers. Passengers with tickets or passes can still use select Bee Network bus routes, helping to maintain access to key destinations while tram services are offline.
Alternative travel options and service changes
With tram services paused, Bee Network has outlined several changes to city centre routes to support passenger mobility. Key adjustments include:
- Altrincham to Piccadilly services will now operate to Victoria Station instead of Piccadilly.
- Bury to Piccadilly services will operate to Crumpsall rather than Piccadilly.
- Eccles to Ashton services will divert to Bury via Exchange Square.
- MediaCityUK to Velopark services will operate to Crumpsall via Exchange Square.
Airlines of disruption are unlikely, but passengers should anticipate a busier city centre and longer journeys as the network works to re-route services. Operators are encouraging people to check the Bee Network app or official service advisories for live updates and to plan ahead.
What travellers should do now
For those relying on the Metrolink this morning, a few practical steps can help minimize delays:
- Check Bee Network live updates before traveling to confirm any new service patterns or platform changes.
- Consider using the affected bus routes highlighted by Bee Network as temporary alternatives.
- If your journey is time-sensitive, allow extra time and consider alternative modes such as walking or cycling where feasible.
- Monitor social channels or local news for the latest information on when tram services on the Ashton Line are expected to resume.
Expected timeline and ongoing coverage
The timeline for recovery depends on the nature of the tram fault and the capacity of maintenance teams to safely restore operations at Piccadilly. Metrolink operators aim to provide a swift and transparent update as engineers assess the fault and begin recovery work. In the meantime, affected commuters should follow Bee Network alerts for the most current route changes and service availability.
Why this matters for Manchester
Disruptions on the Ashton Line can create knock-on effects across the wider Metrolink network and city centre traffic. With Piccadilly acting as a major hub, interruptions can affect work commutes, hospital visits, and access to key districts such as Victoria Station, Crumpsall, and Eccles. Local authorities and transport operators routinely reconfigure services during faults to preserve connectivity, but the disruption remains inconvenient for many travelers.
Stay informed
For up-to-the-minute information, follow Bee Network updates and the Manchester Evening News coverage. Joining the local transport alerts via WhatsApp or social feeds can provide real-time notices on service changes, platform shifts, and expected restoration times.
Bottom line
Today’s tram fault at Piccadilly has suspended all Ashton Line services, with several city-centre routes adjusted to maintain passenger access via Bus Network services. While the fault is being addressed, passengers should plan for altered routes and potential delays, checking Bee Network advisories for the latest information.
