The final concrete pour was successfully completed on Tuesday 5 November, across a 15-metrestretch of track near the ITV studios, marking the final construction activity before tram testing could get underway on Sunday 10 November.

The first tram travelled along Trafford Wharf Road, between the Pomona Metrolink stop and Warren Bruce Road. A team of engineers accompanied the tram and carried out essential safety checks as it travelled at walking speed. This short journey marked the beginning of the safety process, which will see the development of signalling and controls systems infrastructure.

Greater Manchester Transport Committee Chair, Councillor Mark Aldred, said: “The development of the Trafford Park line is excellent news for Greater Manchester, and I’m delighted to see it progressing with the start of tram testing. 

“When the line opens next year, it will provide a major boost to regional regeneration and economic growth by improving access to the large amount of retail, leisure, business and employment opportunities that exist in Trafford Park. 

Transport for Greater Manchester’s Head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughan, said: “This is another significant moment on our journey towards completion. None of this would be possible without the work of our partners, including contractor M-Pact Thales (MPT), my thanks go to all those involved.”

It is expected that the testing phase will last several months with the line set to open in the first half of 2020.