UK: Manchester Metrolink services started running to Oldham town centre on January 27 with the opening of a loop on the Manchester – Rochdale line.
The on-street loop leaves the former Manchester – Oldham railway alignment near the Westwood business park, before running north along Featherstall Road and Middleton Road. After crossing Manchester Street roundabout, the route runs along Union Street and then rejoins the line to Rochdale at Oldham Mumps. There are four stops: Westwood, King Street, Oldham Central and Oldham Mumps. Services run at 12 min intervals.
The completion of the loop means that the 2·4 km section of former railway through Oldham can now be closed.
