Travel warning issued as thousands to visit Manchester in hectic half marathon and Super League final weekend

A travel warning has been issued as thousands are expected to visit Manchester this weekend for the half marathon and the Super League final.

People are being urged to plan their journeys, with around 60,000 rugby fans making their way to Old Trafford on Saturday (October 12) for the Super League Grand Final between Wigan Warriors and Hull KR.

And on Sunday, over 24,000 runners due to take part in the Manchester half marathon, which starts and ends in Old Trafford, taking participants on a 13.1 mile course through Chorlton, Sale, Stretford and Hulme.

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A number of roads across the city region will also be closed throughout Sunday, with thousands more expected to attend and watch. 'Extensive' bus diversions will also be in place with congestion and delays likely, TfGM.

Anyone who has to make a journey by road has been encouraged to check the route map for the marathon and road closures in place before travelling. Those relying on bus services also need to check whether their routes or times are impacted by the race.

Fran Wilkinson, Customer and Growth Director at TfGM, said: “It’s shaping up to be a really exciting weekend with two wonderful events that thousands of people will be heading out to enjoy – showcasing what Greater Manchester is all about.

“We want everyone to have a great time and avoid hold-ups and delays wherever possible, which is why I’d encourage anyone travelling in the half marathon area in particular to plan ahead and allow themselves plenty of time for their journey.

“Tram will definitely be the best way to get around and if you’re coming to cheer someone on why not avoid the busy start and finish points and cheer on your runner from one of the lovely places along the route, such as Sale or Chorlton.

“For those who really have to drive our Metrolink park and ride sites are a great option. You can park for free and let a tram take you to your destination, without having to worry about congestion on the roads.”

Half marathon travel advice

Runners taking part in the challenge are advised to use Old Trafford, Trafford Bar or Imperial War Museum for the start line on Bridgewater Way. Stops including Pomona, Cornbrook, Exchange Quay and Wharfside will be difficult to access due to the half marathon route, TfGM said.

There are also several stops located close to spectating points along the event route. Official cheer points are situated at Deansgate Interchange and Wharfside, as well as in Stretford, Sale and Chorlton.

Trams will run every 15 minutes across the network. However, Altrincham towards Crumpsall will see an extra service added, making the frequency 7.5 minutes on that line. All lines, especially the Eccles, Altrincham and Trafford Park Lines, are expected to be 'much busier than normal' throughout the day.

Metrolink park and ride sites are another option for those who have to drive but want to avoid the road closures – and maybe do their bit for city centre congestion. There are 24 sites where drivers can park up for free and use tram services.

Super League Final travel advice

Those travelling for Saturday’s Super League Final are also being encouraged to use public transport where possible, TfGM has said.

Metrolink will be running a six-minute service to Old Trafford on the Altrincham line, with a 12-minute service to Wharfside on the Trafford Park Line and to Exchange Quay on the Eccles line.

Motorists have been informed there will be a lane closure on the A56 heading northbound near Barton Road, with delays of around 10 to 15 minutes expected prior to the fixture.

Further travel advice and information for those going to the game can be found on the Bee Network website.