Manchester travel latest with 'serious' bus and tram crash meaning Piccadilly Gardens is closed to all traffic

The incident took place in Piccadilly Gardens earlier this afternoon (October 18). As a result, no buses or Metrolink services are operating in the area.

Emergency services remain at the scene. In addition to these, extra transport staff being deployed to the area to assist and support the travelling public. Free Bus services are suspended until further notice.

Services for East Didsbury-Rochdale and Trafford Centre-Deansgate Castlefield remain unaffected, though minor delays are being reported across the network. Details on the routes fully affected by the collision are below.

Affected Metrolink routes

Trams are currently unable to serve Piccadilly Gardens, Market Street and Shudehill stops. The following service change is in place across the Metrolink network:

• Ashton-Under-Lyne - Piccadilly
• Eccles - Crumpsall
• Bury - Altrincham (via Exchange Square)
• Manchester Airport - Victoria (via Exchange Square)
• Altrincham - Cornbrook (Piccadilly services)

Fran Wilkinson, TfGM’s Customer and Growth Director, said: “This is a serious incident which is currently ongoing. Our staff are continuing to support emergency services at the scene, while also assisting members of the public.

“Piccadilly Gardens will be closed for some time, and we are expecting bus and Metrolink services to be impacted throughout the afternoon and into the evening. If you are already in the city centre, or are planning a journey into the centre, please check our website or social channels for the latest advice before you travel.”