Work has officially started on the construction of Golborne railway station, marking a major milestone for transport connectivity in Greater Manchester and delivering the city-region's first brand-new railway station of the 21st century.
The new station, located on the West Coast Main Line near the site of Golborne's former railway station, will reconnect the town to the national rail network for the first time in more than six decades. The project forms part of Greater Manchester's wider ambitions to integrate rail services into the growing Bee Network, creating seamless links between trains, buses, trams and active travel routes.
Currently, Golborne has no direct rail, tram or bus connection to Manchester city centre. Once completed, the station will be served by an hourly service between Wigan and Stalybridge via Manchester Victoria, significantly improving accessibility for local residents and businesses.
Passengers are expected to benefit from reduced journey times into Manchester city centre, with some journeys shortened by up to 30 minutes.
The station is scheduled to open in Spring 2028 and is being delivered by Transport for Greater Manchester in partnership with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Wigan Council, funded through devolved government investment.
The scheme is also designed to improve local connectivity beyond rail travel. A new pedestrian footbridge linking both sides of the railway will help reconnect parts of the town previously separated by the line, while upgraded walking, wheeling and cycling routes will provide safer access between the town centre, station and nearby car park.
The announcement comes amid continued expansion of the Bee Network, including the recent introduction of the 612 bus service, which provides a half-hourly link between Wigan and St Helens via Abram, Golborne and Newton-le-Willows.
Bev Craig, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:
“People in Golborne have been crying out for better transport links. We’ve listened and we’re building a brand-new train station that will re-connect the community to the rail network for the first time in more than 60 years.
“It’s a big moment for Greater Manchester too – our first new train station in more than 25 years – and I can’t wait to board the first trains stopping here. It’s brilliant to see work getting going on site.
“We’re working with the rail industry to better join-up rail services with our buses and trams. I’ve promised to continue to grow the Bee Network and this is another big step on that journey to connect our communities better than ever before.”
The station has been designed to provide a fully accessible passenger experience, featuring:
- Step-free access throughout
- Lifts serving both platforms
- A new footbridge spanning the railway
- Digital information screens
- Waiting shelters and seating
- Passenger assistance intercoms
- Ticket vending machines
- CCTV coverage and enhanced lighting
The adjacent town-centre car park will also undergo improvements, including resurfacing works, upgraded lighting and additional CCTV installations.
Golborne engineering specialist Murphy has been appointed as principal contractor for the project and will work closely with local residents, businesses and stakeholders throughout construction to minimise disruption and keep communities informed.
Once operational, the station is expected to support economic growth, improve access to employment and education opportunities, reduce road congestion and help lower transport-related carbon emissions across the borough.
Image credit: Transport for Greater Manchester
