Metrolink Operations and Maintenance

Tuesday 8th September 2026 at 18:30

Joint event with the IET

 
Speaker: Mr. Mike Todd - Head of Rolling Stock Delivery - Metrolink

Venue:  Lecture Theatre SB 2.05, Sandra Burslem Building, Manchester Metropolitan University, Lower Ormond Street, M15 6BH

Refreshments at 18:00 and visitors are welcome

About the Speaker — Michael Todd MIoL

Michael Todd MIoL is Head of Rolling Stock Delivery at KeolisAmey Metrolink, responsible for the engineering, maintenance, and operational readiness of Manchester’s 147 vehicle M5000 tram fleet — the largest light rail fleet in the UK.

His role includes:

• Managing fleet reliability and performance
• Overseeing depot operations and engineering resources
• Planning overhaul cycles and maintenance strategy
• Coordinating workshop activities and servicing schedules
• Ensuring trams return to service safely and on time
• Supporting engineering operations during major works and disruptions

The Lecture

A technical exploration of how Manchester’s tram fleet is engineered, maintained, and kept operational for more than 45 million passenger journeys each year.

Fleet Overview

High Floor Bombardier (Now Alstom) Swift Flexity, 2 car  M5000 LRVs operate on the  network, often operating as 4 car coupled units.  The first M5000 were delivered in 2009.  A total of 10 orders brought the with the total to 147, the final tram being delivered in 2022.

Maintenance and Operational Management

There are 2 depots, the original Metrolink Depot at Queens Road and the modern Trafford Depot in Stretford.  Heavy Maintenance;  major repairs and  extensive overhauls are generally handled by the Queens Road Depot.  The Trafford Depot, is the largest and the operations HQ.  Maintenance and preparation for daily service is a 24 hour, 7 day a week operation.  Metrolink achieves a peak vehicle availability of over 90%, meaning that during the morning peak, over 130 trams are in service  as 2 car or 4 car, coupled units.

Manchester Metrolink is currently UK Operator of the year (Global Light Rail Awards).  This is the second consecutive year it has been awarded to Metrolink and reflects passenger satisfaction, network and fleet reliability.  

Join us face-to-face at our usual venue at the Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) to meet the speaker and network with other learned professionals or online using the TEAMS link.

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Access to Sandra Burlem Building is either from Mancunian Way or via the Business School