Between July and September 2014, Transport for Greater Manchester conducted a public consultation to build the line.

[2][3] In November 2014, the agency applied for power under the Transport and Works Act 1992 to build and operate the line.

The line opened on 22 March 2020, eight months earlier than originally planned,[11][12] despite suggestions that it might be delayed[13] as part of a review of all Metrolink services because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It continues to run alongside the Manchester Ship Canal for about a quarter of a mile before making two sharp turns to get to Imperial War Museum tram stop.

[15]To provide rolling stock for the line and other service expansions, 27 Bombardier M5000 trams were ordered; these incorporate modifications to the existing fleet including new touch screen Vecom units for drivers.