The largest light rail network in the UK, Manchester Metrolink’s success was rooted in deep experience and built upon collaborative relationships.

Running on seven lines, covering (105km) 66 miles and with 99 stops, Manchester Metrolink is a vital ingredient in Greater Manchester’s transport network.

The initial Phase 3 project, secured in 2008 by a consortium formed between Laing O’Rourke, VolkerRail and Thales, was to treble the size of the system. The consortium secured further works, resulting in 12 years of continual delivery.

It’s all about experience

Laing O’Rourke and VolkerRail’s relationship began in the mid-1990s on the Midland Metrolink contract, before moving on to deliver Manchester Metrolink’s Phase 2 extension.
This synergy was a key factor in the success of the Phase 3 works. Experience was drawn on to drive continual improvements, enable innovation and embed modern methods of construction into design and delivery, including:

• Preassembly of the 580-tonne span structures for the M56 and M60 bridges
• Precast and preclad, flat-packed rail platform installed alongside an operational line
• Thousands of modular, precast platform units installed at 56 tram stops
• Flat-packed equipment rooms assembled in a few hours with a high level of quality

Lessons during the 12-year delivery period enabled the team to embed a collaborative design environment, shortening the design process while improving quality and adding certainty.