Major boost for upgrade of two Greater Manchester stations

The plan to transform two train stations in Oldham and Tameside have taken a major leap forward.

Greenfield and Mossley railway stations have both been lined up for an upgrade as part of the multi-billion-pound Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU). Network Rail have been working on plans to upgrade the section of the route between Stalybridge and Diggle in Saddleworth, where both stations sit.

Now the proposals have officially been launched for consultation by the TRU team.

The scheme would see platforms at both stations extended, giving the space for longer services, which would allow more seats for customers. Mossley station would be relocated 300 metres northeast of the current station, in the direction of Greenfield. 

Pictured above: Mossley Station platform view.

This relocation would allow space to provide a better travel experience through an improved, more accessible station which will include a new footbridge and lifts. 

Pictured above: CGI of how the new Mossley Station could soon look

As part of the works, the track near Stalybridge and Scout Tunnels would be lowered to allow the installation of overhead line equipment (OLE) for electrification and enable larger freight trains to pass through. 

Safety and security work has also been proposed near the boundary lines where houses in Mossley sit close to the railway tracks. 

At Greenfield station, the existing footbridge would be removed to allow for overhead line equipment (OLE) to be installed, and replaced with a new station footbridge, which will be equipped with lifts to provide step-free access between platforms. 

Pictured above: CGI of how the new Greenfield Station could look like.

The reconstruction of Oldham Road Bridge has also been proposed. A new footbridge from Oldham Road to Shaw Hall Bank Road will be constructed adjacent to the existing Oldham Road Bridge – separating pedestrians from Oldham Road Bridge carrying the highway.

As part of the TRU scheme, bridges that can expect changes to accommodate higher OLE include:

Heyrod Hall Bridge
Spring Bank Lane Bridge
Roughtown Road Overbridge
Wright’s Mill Overbridge
Wright’s Overbridge
Ward Lane Bridge
Station Road Bridge

Mark Ashton, Sponsor for the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU), said: “We’re excited to share our proposals for major upgrades between Stalybridge and Diggle, as part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade. 

“Our plans include significant improvements at Greenfield Station and Mossley Station – which will be relocated 300m from its current position – delivering longer platforms, improved customer facilities and step-free access for the first time. These enhancements are a key part of transforming this vital route across the Pennines.

“These upgrades will bring lasting social and economic benefits to communities along the line too. 

“Faster, longer and more reliable trains will strengthen connections to jobs, education and leisure across the north, helping local economies thrive while providing customers with more comfortable and dependable journeys.”

Network Rail have previously spoken of a desire to start building work by summer 2028.