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Following years of disruption, engineering work and road closures, Metrolink services began running through Oldham town centre on January 27 2014, with the opening of a loop on the Manchester to Rochdale line.

The on-street loop leaves the former Manchester to Oldham railway alignment near the Westwood business park, before running north alongside Featherstall Road and Middleton Road. After crossing Manchester Street roundabout, the route runs along Union Street and then rejoins the line to Rochdale at Oldham Mumps. Three new tram stops have been created in the town, Westwood, King Street and Oldham Central. Additionally, the temporary stop at Oldham Mumps has been replaced by a new tram and bus interchange including a free park and ride site for tram passengers.

The completion of the loop means that the Metrolink network now extends for 48 miles and has 76 stops/stations. The 2•4 km section of former railway through Oldham from Freehold to Mumps is now closed.