Funding for improvements to the rail network in Manchester is set to be released by the Department for Transport.
Rail Minister, Huw Merriman unveiled the £72 million package of improvements in Manchester which included the latest of four infrastructure upgrades.
The funding will help deliver a third platform at Salford Crescent and a programme of track improvements across north Manchester. It is hoped that these improvements will improve capacity and station overcrowding.
Alongside those changes, Manchester Victoria will also benefits from extra entry and exit points.
Rail Minister Huw Merriman said: “This new investment will help make train services more reliable for the people of Manchester and beyond, marking another milestone in a decade’s worth of rail improvements across the region.
An efficient railway is key to levelling up and the improvements achieved through this package will help boost local economies and connect people to opportunities, as well as friends and family.”
In light of the announcement from the Department for Transport’s (DfT) announcement, Network Rail has withdrawn a previous planning application for rail infrastructure work in the city.
This investment follows the £26 million package of upgrades to Manchester Oxford Road and Piccadilly train stations with the upgrade to Oxford Road currently in the design phase.
It was also revealed that the Manchester Task Force – A cross industry body which includes representatives from Network Rail, Transport for Greater Manchester, Transport for the North as well as other local operators were instrumental in securing the investment.
Network Rail’s Tim Shoveller said: “Today’s announcement is really positive, allowing us to get on with fixing the infrastructure around central Manchester so we can run trains more reliably.
“The rail industry has come together to work on these proposals, building into a long-term vision that will get the best for our passengers and freight users alike.
“We also have ambitious plans for the future of Manchester Oxford Road. We’re removing our previous planning application so we can move forward with a new approach, something we’ll be consulting residents and businesses on later in the year.”
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “There is a massive opportunity to change rail journeys for people and businesses in Greater Manchester and the North for the better, and this infrastructure investment is a welcome next step to help make that happen.
“Through the task force and our trailblazer deal, we will continue working with government and the industry to help shape the comprehensive package of improvements needed to transform rail travel and support our growing economy, so that we can create more jobs and homes.”
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