Kier to Lead Heaton Park Metrolink Stop Overhaul for TfGM

Kier has won the design-led upgrade of Heaton Park Metrolink stop in Prestwich, Transport for Greater Manchester has confirmed, with step-free access at the core of the brief.

The contract puts Kier in charge of design for a scheme centred on ramps and larger lifts. The existing stepped access to the platforms goes too — demolished and rebuilt. It's a full reset for one of the network's busiest leisure gateways.

Heaton Park stop serves the largest park in Greater Manchester, more than 600 acres of parkland, and handles both small gatherings and large-scale events. Six-hundred acres generates footfall. Footfall generates wear.

What exactly is in the package?

The proposed works go well beyond the lifts. TfGM's list includes:

• Demolition and construction of new stepped access to platforms
• Installation of new waiting shelters
• Urban realm improvements at the stop entrance
• Removal and relocation of existing platform furniture
• Replacement of all signage, including wayfinding
• Installation of a new pedestrian track crossing
• Drainage works

Signage, shelters, drainage. Unglamorous, arguably. Also the difference between a stop people tolerate and one they use.

Why this stop, and why now?

Ian Davies, TfGM's network director for Metrolink, framed the project as part of a wider push: "Heaton Park is a key stop on Greater Manchester's tram network, serving local residents and visitors to one of the city-region's most popular leisure destinations."

He added: "The work at Heaton Park forms part of a wider programme to improve stops across our network, creating a more comfortable, accessible and convenient experience for people travelling by tram in Greater Manchester."

One stop, then, inside a network-wide accessibility programme — not a one-off.

For Kier, the appointment extends an established regional footprint. Mandy Duncan, managing director for Rail and Aviation at Kier Infrastructure, said: "This appointment builds on the other projects we are currently delivering across Greater Manchester, including wider accessibility improvements at six railway stations and engineering upgrades near Manchester Victoria."

Six stations plus Manchester Victoria. Kier clearly knows its way around the city-region's rails.

What comes next?

Design comes first; construction timelines and costs remain undisclosed. Given the demolition, drainage and lift works involved, expect a phased build while the stop stays open — though TfGM has not confirmed sequencing. Either way, tram passengers heading to 600 acres of parkland will soon do it via ramps rather than stairs. That's the point.