Passengers are one step closer to enjoying the benefits of a multi-million-pound transformation at Salford Crescent station, with significant progress made throughout 2025 on a third platform designed to improve journeys from early next year.
Network Rail, in partnership with Kier Construction, has been working steadily to deliver the new platform, complete with stair and lift access from the ticket hall. In mid-September, the final full weekend closure of the station saw key infrastructure elements—including platform canopies and staircases—craned into place.
With 75% of the work now complete, the remaining upgrades can be carried out without further station closures. The third platform is expected to open in early 2026, promising smoother passenger flow and reduced train delays by increasing operational flexibility for services running through central Manchester and beyond.
The additional platform will give railway signallers more options to manage congestion on the busy Manchester to Preston line, which serves Greater Manchester and Manchester Airport.
James Ashley, Network Rail scheme project manager, said: “We’d like to thank passengers travelling through Salford Crescent this year for their patience while we’ve been carrying out these transformational upgrades.
“We’ve worked very closely with our partners and contractors to keep the disruption to a minimum. It’s great to see the new facilities really taking shape, with the stairs, lift shafts and platform canopies progressing at pace and giving a real sense of what the station will look like when it’s complete next year."
Jonathan Moran, senior project manager at Kier, added: “We’ve reached several key milestones recently that bring our expected Spring completion date ever closer. Through close collaboration with Network Rail and our dedicated supply chain, we are continuing to make excellent progress, and we thank the local community for their continued patience as we continue to make way for the station’s third platform.
“We look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have for customers by improving connectivity and the overall customer experience for years to come.”
In parallel, a £10 million investment is being made at Salford Central station by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), Network Rail, and Northern Trains. The improvements include a new lower-level ticket office, upgraded platforms, and enhanced signage to integrate with the Bee Network—Greater Manchester’s vision for a unified public transport system.
Simon Elliott, Network Director for Rail at TfGM, said: “It’s a proud moment to see rail improvements in Salford nearing completion, both at Salford Crescent and Salford Central stations. Close collaboration with our partners at Network Rail and Northern Trains has been key to delivering these upgrades, alongside our ongoing commitment to building a transport system that meets the needs of Greater Manchester.
“These upgrades will bring lasting benefits to the people of Salford, while also improving journeys for those travelling across Greater Manchester and beyond.”
Councillor Mike McCusker, lead member for Planning, Transport and Sustainable Development at Salford City Council, welcomed the progress: “It is fantastic news that the upgrades are coming along so well. Salford Crescent is well used and certainly deserves this upgrade.
“When complete it will be much more efficient and passengers will notice the difference so thanks to all involved on behalf of our communities.”
Mark Wantling, chief infrastructure officer at the University of Salford, also praised the development: "Salford Crescent station is a key transport hub at the heart of our Peel Park Campus, so we’re understandably excited that this major upgrade is in its final stages of development.
“The third platform will support sustainable growth and transform connectivity in the area, making the day-to-day journeys of rail commuters – including many of our staff, students and visitors – easier and more reliable."
Image & video credits: Network Rail
