Extract from a letter from TfGM to local residents.

Oldham and Rochdale Metrolink line – Work on Footbridge at Bridge Street, Shaw

As you may be aware, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has recently announced that it is targeting Monday 27th January for the start of Metrolink passenger services through Oldham town centre, unless adverse wintry weather conditions affect progress on the ground.

Connecting the new line to the network will require a weeklong closure of the existing section between Central Park and Rochdale Railway Station, which is scheduled to start on Saturday 18th January.

During this temporary closure we will be carrying out some additional work along certain sections of the Oldham and Rochdale Metrolink line.

Work will include improvements to the handrail and stairs on the footbridge over the Metrolink track at Bridge Street, Shaw.

This scheduled work will take place between the hours of 7am and 7pm on Saturday 18th January 2014 and Sunday 19th January 2014.

This work will involve:

• Removal and replacement of the handrail to stairs

• Refurbishment (grinding and cleaning) and repainting the existing balustrade to the stairs.

• Installation of new anti-slip stair treads.

Please note that if the painting is not completed within the time frame above work will need to be completed between 8 am and 6 pm on Monday 20th January to Wednesday 22nd January, dependent on weather conditions.

A footpath closure will be in place from 7am on Saturday 18th January until 6pm on Wednesday 22nd January.

A signed diversion route will be in place via Smallbrook Rd.

This closure will be removed if the works are completed early.