The double-carriage tram came off the tracks on approach to Manchester Piccadilly
The double-carriage tram came off the tracks on approach to Manchester Piccadilly
An investigation has been launched into the derailment of a Metrolink tram in Manchester city centre. The tram from Ashton to Bury derailed approaching the Piccadilly tram stop on April 5 this year.
At around 1.39pm the double-carriage tram came off the tracks while travelling at around 8mph. The wheels on one axle left the track, but the driver was initially unaware and continued with the journey, the Rail Accidents and Serious Incidents branch said.
Passengers were able to disembark the service and no injuries were reported. There was minor damage caused to the tram and infrastructure as a result of the derailment.
Click here to get the biggest stories straight to your inbox in our Daily Newsletter
The Rail Accidents and Serious Incidents Branch has now commenced an investigation into the incident. It will consider the design, maintenance and management of the track at Piccadilly and the tram that derailed. It will also examine the operation of the tram when it derailed and any other underlying factors that may have been the cause.
A statement read: “At around 13:39 on 5 April 2026, a Metrolink tram travelling from Ashton to Bury derailed on the approach to Piccadilly tram stop in Manchester. The tram, formed of two coupled sets, was travelling at about 8 mph (13 km/h) when the wheels on one axle left the track.
“The driver was initially unaware of the derailment and the tram continued into the tram stop, where passengers were able to disembark. There were no injuries reported as a result of the derailment and only minor damage was caused to the tram and to the infrastructure.”
It continued: “Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the tramway industry or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.
“We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website.”