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A new chapter in Golborne’s transport history is underway after Wigan Council approved planning permission for a GBP 32 million railway station, marking a major milestone in plans to reconnect the town to the rail network for the first time in more than 60 years. Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed local engineering company Murphy to develop detailed designs for the station, which forms part of Greater Manchester’s Bee Network – the city-region’s plan to create the UK’s first fully integrated public transport system outside London. The station proposal, supported by strong public feedback in a 2024 consultation, features a fully accessible two-platform layout with step-free access, improved walking and cycling links, and an upgraded town centre car park. It will offer an hourly service between Wigan, Manchester Victoria, and Stalybridge, cutting journey times into the city by up to 30 minutes. Subject to government approval of the full business case, construction is expected to begin in 2026, with the first services calling at Golborne in 2027. “This is a significant moment for Greater Manchester… Local residents have campaigned tirelessly for the restoration of rail services to Golborne. This approval is a victory for the community and a step towards better connectivity, easing congestion, reducing emissions and supporting economic growth,” Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said. He added that Murphy’s appointment was “a fantastic result”, bringing local knowledge to the project and strengthening ties to the community. Wigan Council Leader Councillor David Molyneux MBE said the project reflects the council’s commitment to “community wealth building” and praised the appointment of Golborne-based Murphy as a boost to the local supply chain. Murphy, working with design partner WSP, will now take the station plans through to detailed design. Chris Cayton, Murphy’s Transportation Managing Director, said: “With offices in Stonecross and Golborne, we are particularly delighted to be appointed… to greatly improve transport links for the benefit of the surrounding communities.” Jo Platt, MP for Leigh and Atherton, welcomed the progress: “After years of campaigning, it’s fantastic to see Golborne station reach this next milestone… This important infrastructure will bring better connectivity, reduce congestion and support growth.” The project is being delivered through locally devolved government funding and sits alongside a wider Golborne town centre Masterplan aimed at encouraging further investment and improving liveability. |
