Kier has been appointed by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) to lead the design of an accessibility and customer experience upgrade at Heaton Park Metrolink stop in Prestwich.
The project is part of TfGM’s Metrolink Stop Improvements Programme. Proposed works include new ramps and larger lifts to improve step-free access, along with the demolition and reconstruction of stepped access to the platforms.
Planned stop improvements
The scheme is also expected to include new waiting shelters, improvements to the urban realm at the entrance, the removal and relocation of platform furniture, replacement signage and wayfinding, a new pedestrian track crossing and drainage works.
Heaton Park stop is on the Bury line and serves Heaton Park, which has more than 600 acres of parkland and hosts events throughout the year.
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.”
Mandy Duncan, managing director for rail and aviation at Kier Infrastructure, said the appointment would improve accessibility and the experience for passengers using the stop. She added that Kier would work in partnership with TfGM and other project partners.
Duncan 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.