ANOTHER milestone was reached last week in the roll-out of Trafford's Metrolink line.

The construction of a 29 metre bridge over the Bridgewater Canal, near Park Way, was completed on time, ready for rails to be laid early next year.

The beams for the new bridge were put into place by two 500 tonne cranes which lifted the nine beams across the canal to create the new structure.

When it is complete in 2020 the £350m Trafford Park Line extension will add a further three and a half miles and six stops to the Metrolink network.

The new line is being funded by Greater Manchester’s Devolution Deal, which was signed by the city-region’s leaders in 2014.

Trafford Council are providing £20m towards the project.

Cllr Mark Aldred, TfGM’s chair said: “The Trafford Park Line is a complex construction project and this bridge is just the latest piece to be completed.

“When it is complete, the Trafford Park Line will provide a vital link to the jobs, shopping and cultural destinations along the route.

"This means people will have a real alternative to driving, meaning fewer cars on the road, less congestion and less pollution.”

Lawrence Smith, senior engineer on the Trafford Line, said:

“It’s a testament to the skill and dedication of the people working on the Trafford Park Line that this construction project was completed over one weekend.

"It may look relatively simple, but this scheme was the result of months of planning to minimise disruption and to ensure we stay on schedule.

"There are over 250 people working on the Trafford Park Line, from senior engineers to apprentices, which is just another benefit this project is bringing to Greater Manchester and the wider region’s economy.”