With a record 32,000 participants set to take part in the Manchester Half Marathon this Sunday (October 4), Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has advised people to plan their journeys in advance. The 13.1-mile (21km) course will begin and finish near Old Trafford, running through roads in Stretford, Sale, Chorlton, and surrounding areas, resulting in road closures.
Road closures and bus diversions for Manchester Half Marathon
Significant road closures will affect routes on and around the course. As a result, extensive bus diversions will begin on Saturday 3rd October, and remain in place throughout Sunday 4th October.
The following bus services will operate on diversion: 5B, 15, 23, 25, 30, 41, 53, 79, 85, 85A, 86, 150, 245, 248, 249, 250, 255, 256 & 263. Find out more here.
Following the event, road closures will start to be lifted from 1pm. Most roads will be reopened by 4.30pm with the last roads reopening by 8.30pm.
Travelling by tram for Manchester Half Marathon
Following a record-breaking turnout during the Manchester Marathon earlier this year, high passenger volumes are expected across the network. Extra trams will be running to maximise capacity, and staff will be deployed to key stops to assist passengers.
Runners taking part in the race are advised to use Old Trafford, Trafford Bar or Imperial War Museum tram stops to get to the start line on Bridgewater Way. Due to closures, it’s not advised to use Pomona, Cornbrook, Exchange Quay or Wharfside.
On event day, it will not be possible to board a tram at Dane Road and passengers will only be able to depart the tram at this stop. This is due to limited space around Dane Road and to help with crowd control.
After the race, it is not advised to board the tram at Trafford Bar due to closures on Talbot Road.
“This does mean the city centre and especially trams will be incredibly busy so please plan ahead and give yourself extra time to make journeys.”
Steve Gilholme, Head of Events at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: “The Manchester Half Marathon is another one of those special occasions where the people of Greater Manchester and beyond come together, with thousands of people taking on the challenge and raising money for good causes, while many more will line the route to cheer them on.
“This does mean the city centre and especially trams will be incredibly busy so please plan ahead and give yourself extra time to make journeys. The Bee Network app and website will be the best places to get the latest travel information and tap and go contactless payments are the quickest and easiest way to pay.”
Drivers are strongly advised to avoid traveling within affected areas due to expected congestion and delays. Passengers should check routes in advance using the Bee Network app.
Further information for runners, spectators and those making other journeys on Sunday can be found on the dedicated Bee Network webpage.
