Structure codes: the Manchester Metrolink system

A (one day) comprehensive listing

Last update 5 October 2025

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Manchester's Metrolink system appears to use a similar three letter system to code its routes for structure identification/maintenance purposes. Certain structures carry a plate labelled, in the form XXX/Ynnn where XXX defines the route, Y the asset type and nnn the individual number. Known codes are given here; those not verified on site are marked with †.

Ex-national rail routes (e.g. Oldham/Rochdale line) still have some structures with original codes marked. These are listed on the main ELR page.

Code	Structure
AIR	Manchester Airport line
ALT †	Altrincham line
BUR †	Bury line
DID	East Didsbury line
ECC †	Eccles line
EMR †	East Manchester line Piccadilly to Ashton-under-Lyne
ORL	Oldham and Rochdale line Irk Valley Junction to Rochdale town centre
SMR †	South Manchester line Firswood to St Werburgh's Road
TPL †	Trafford Park line
unknown †	MediaCity UK lines

Suffixes known are:

/C = Culvert /R = Retaining wall none = bridge (and some retaining walls)