Heaton Park tram stop in Prestwich is to get ramps, larger lifts, new shelters and a new track crossing. Kier will design the TfGM scheme; no dates or cost yet.

Heaton Park Metrolink stop in Prestwich is to be rebuilt with ramps and larger lifts so passengers with mobility problems, pushchairs and heavy luggage can reach the platforms more easily.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed the construction group Kier to lead the design of the work, Kier announced on Thursday 15 October. The scheme is part of TfGM’s Metrolink Stop Improvements Programme.

Kier’s announcement gives no start date, no timetable and no cost, and the appointment is for the design only. We will report when TfGM publishes when the work will happen and whether the stop will close while it does.

What is planned

Alongside the ramps and lifts, the proposals listed by Kier are:

  • the old stepped access to the platforms demolished and new steps built
  • new waiting shelters
  • improvements to the street and paving at the stop entrance
  • existing platform furniture removed and moved
  • all signs replaced, including wayfinding
  • a new pedestrian crossing over the tracks
  • drainage works

The stop sits on the Bury line and serves Heaton Park, which Kier describes as the largest park in Greater Manchester, at more than 600 acres. It is also the stop for the park’s big events, including the free bonfire night fireworks on 7 November.

What TfGM says

Ian Davies, TfGM’s network director for Metrolink, said: “Heaton Park is a key stop on Greater Manchester’s tram network, serving local residents and visitors to one of the city-region’s most popular leisure destinations. These upgrades will help create a more modern, welcoming and accessible facility for the people who use it.

“Accessibility is a key priority for us and we will be making changes to the stop enabling easier access for passengers with mobility issues, people with pushchairs and those travelling with heavy luggage.

“The work at Heaton Park forms part of a wider programme to improve stops across our network, creating a more comfortable, accessible and convenient experience for people travelling by tram in Greater Manchester.”

What Kier says

Mandy Duncan, managing director for rail and aviation at Kier Infrastructure, said: “We’re delighted to have been appointed to develop the design of this scheme, which will enhance accessibility and improve the overall experience for passengers using Heaton Park Metrolink stop. We look forward to working in close partnership with Transport for Greater Manchester and partners.”

She said the appointment builds on Kier’s other work in Greater Manchester, including accessibility improvements at six railway stations and engineering upgrades near Manchester Victoria. Kier did not name the six stations.

For tram times from the Bury line into Manchester, see our Bury tram times guide.