Network Rail has announced a £2.7 million investment to upgrade Manchester Oxford Road station, aiming to improve the experience for commuters and visitors traveling through the city centre.
The project, set to begin in March 2024, will involve a redesign of the station's front entrance, installation of new ticket barriers including an accessible option, and relocation of the ticket office window to the front of the building.
It is part of a wider £72 million refurbishment programme of some of Manchester’s key rail stations, including the delivery of a new platform at Salford Crescent which replaced the previously planned new platforms at Manchester Piccadilly. It also follows from the £7.3 million renovation of Salford Central station which began in 2022 and was completed last year.
"We are pleased to announce these upgrades at Manchester Oxford Road station, which are part of our ongoing commitment to improving passengers' experience," said Gaynor Quinn, Sponsor for Network Rail. "The new ticket barriers and relocated ticket office will streamline passenger flow and create a more user-friendly environment for everyone."
Manchester’s Oxford Road rail station is the third busiest in Manchester after both Victoria and Piccadilly stations and sits next to the Grade 2 viaduct which carries the southern Manchester line.
Network Rail is working to minimise disruption during construction. Most work will be carried out at night while the station is closed. Passengers may experience some construction activity during the day, but the station will remain open for travel.
Craig Harrop, Regional Director at Northern, expressed his appreciation for passengers' patience during the renovation. "These improvements are set to make a huge difference for our colleagues and customers using Manchester Oxford Road station," he said. "We thank our customers for their patience while this work is carried out and look forward to the finished result."
The project is part of a wider collaboration between Network Rail, the Department for Transport, Manchester City Council, and train operators to enhance the station and its services.
Photo Credits: Network Rail/iStock
