Transport chiefs in alert over 'busiest days of year'

MANCHESTER is bracing for what are expected to be the ‘busiest days of the year so far’ with thousands travelling in and out of the city for huge Elton John, Arctic Monkeys and Coldplay gigs, as well as the City v United FA Cup final in London – all during train strikes

- JAMES HOLT

Saturday is predicted to be the most hectic of all, with both City and United fans attempting to travel down to London to attend the FA Cup final, with rail strikes set to impede journeys and cause delays or last-minute cancellations.

That same day, Elton John will be performing his third night at the AO Arena, the Arctic Monkeys will take to the stage for their second Manchester date at Emirates Old Trafford and Coldplay will perform their third show out of four to a sold-out Etihad stadium.

Crowds will also descend on the region for two events at Edgeley Park, Stockport, on June 2 and 3, and also for the We Invented the Weekend festival at Salford Quays.

With rail strikes and many major events all happening on the same day, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has warned that June 3 will be the ‘busiest day this year so far’ on the region’s transport network, with congestion on trains, trams, buses and roads expected.