New TransPennine consultation underway

A public consultation is underway over the next phase of the TransPennine Route Upgrade.

The planned upgrades of the TransPennine line between Diggle and Stalybridge include improved, more accessible stations at Mossley and Greenfield, full electrification of the line and some bridge works to allow the installation of overhead line equipment (OLE).

The consultation events will include details of the installation of OLE on the iconic Uppermill Viaduct, also known as Saddleworth Viaduct.

One of the most obvious changes for passengers will be the new Mossley station. The plan is to build a new station 300 metres northeast of the current one, in the direction of Greenfield. The TransPennine Route Upgrade (TRU) team say this will allow space to provide a more accessible station, which will include a new footbridge and lifts. As well as improved accessibility, both Mossley and Greenfield stations would see platform extensions, allowing longer trains to stop.

As well as in-person drop-in events, there is a virtual consultation room to allow people to have their say and the consultation will close on 25 October 2024 .

Mark Ashton, Sponsor on the TransPennine Route Upgrade, said: “The TRU Stalybridge to Diggle public consultation is the opportunity for the public to hear about our exciting plans for the area, which includes improved, more accessible stations at Mossley and Greenfield for the first time in the route’s history.”

Following the consultation process, TRU says it will consider all the feedback received from the local community and other stakeholders. A Transport and Works Act Order application will then be submitted to the Secretary of State in Summer 2025.

The upgrades and electrification of the TransPennine route are expected to take at least another 6 years, with a promise of more trains, cutting the fastest journey time between Leeds and Manchester to 41 or 42 minutes.