WORK to transform Altrincham Interchange will start imminently, following the appointment of a contractor for a major improvement scheme.
The transformation of the interchange will now take place in two principal phases, with the first section focusing on the historic building and canopies, and some further preparatory work.
Laing O’Rourke will be delivering the £19 million project to revitalise and refurbish the interchange, which will provide a new, fully integrated transport hub with much improved facilities, accessible to all.
It will also offer a new gateway for visitors arriving in Altrincham, and will play a key role in shaping the vision for the town centre being driven by Altrincham Forward, the public/private sector regeneration partnership that includes Trafford Council.
It will transform the existing interchange into a new, fully accessible facility with a modern concourse; improved links between bus, train and tram services; and enhanced CCTV and passenger information systems.
A new, integrated ticket office will also be provided within the existing Victorian station building.
As part of the Greater Manchester Commuter Cycling Project, which is being part-funded through the government’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund, a dedicated cycle hub will also be provided at the interchange, providing secure, covered cycle parking for more than 50 bikes.
Work to prepare for the redevelopment of Altrincham Interchange was completed last year with the demolition of a disused footbridge over Stamford New Road.
The transformation of the interchange will now take place in two principal phases, with the first section focusing on the historic building and canopies, and some further preparatory work.
From 18 February, around 16 spaces on the Oakfield car park will be used to provide a site compound for the duration of the project. Hoardings will be erected alongside the boundary of the railway and car park, with minimal disruption for users.
In addition, from 27 February, the Northern Rail ticket office will move temporarily from Platform 1 to Platform 4.
Once the first phase is complete, the project will focus on the rest of the site, which will require bus services to operate from nearby temporary stands. Comprehensive passenger information and support will be provided in the run up to and throughout the project.
As a whole, the project is due to be completed in 2014.
