Keep on running….road closures affecting you this Sunday

Some of Sale busiest roads will be closed to traffic this Sunday as Manchester’s Half Marathon takes place.

Transport for Greater Manchester is advising runners and spectators to plan their journeys ahead of the race this Sunday.

Around 12,000 runners are estimated to be taking part in the event, which starts at 9 am on Bridgewater Way in Stretford and finishes at Emirates Old Trafford cricket ground.

Roads will be closed and reopened throughout the day to accommodate the event, with the earliest closures starting at 5 am and the latest around 6 pm. Bus services will also be affected as they are diverted to avoid the closed roads.  Broad Road, Northenden Road, Walton Road and sections of the A56 Washway Road in Sale – are all affected.

Metrolink trams are not affected and will be running as usual, but are likely to be busier than normal as people attend the event or seek to avoid the road closures.

People driving to the race are encouraged to take advantage of Greater Manchester’s free park and ride facilities and complete their journey by public transport.

TfGM has prepared detailed travel advice, including maps and journey planning.

https://beta.tfgm.com/travel-updates/manchester-half-marathon

Metrolink event staff will also be on hand to help customers with their travel needs. TfGM, Metrolink and the event organisers will also be using their social media accounts on the day to update passengers on any issues affecting travel.

TfGM’s Events and Operational Coordination Manager, Ryan Carter, said: “The Manchester Half Marathon is a superb event which attracts thousands of people and we want to ensure everyone gets to the starting line on time.

“We have been working closely with the organisers to get effective transport plans in place and minimise any disruption.

“Our advice is for people to plan their journeys and allow yourself a little extra time to get to your destination. We will be monitoring the event on the day to ensure it all goes smoothly – and the best of luck to everyone taking part.”

Sarah Bennett, Manchester Half Marathon’s, Race Director said: “I’d like to thank TfGM for their help organising the transport for the Manchester Half Marathon. I’d encourage everyone to take their advice and plan their journey so they can get to the right place at the right time.

“The course follows the Altrincham line of the Metrolink, which gives spectators the chance to catch the race at different parts of the course, but please be aware that this may mean the line is busier than normal at those stops.”

For information on public transport across Greater Manchester visit www.tfgm.com, call 0161 244 1000 (7am-8pm, Monday to Friday, and 8am-8pm at weekends and bank holidays) or follow @OfficialTfGM on Twitter.