A planning application by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) for a new £32 million railway station in Golborne has been submitted to Wigan Council. This proposed station would mark the town's reconnection to the rail network for the first time in over six decades.
The new station, which is part of a broader plan to integrate eight commuter lines into the city’s Bee Network by 2028, aims to transform connectivity and stimulate economic growth in Golborne and the surrounding areas. Golborne was cut adrift of the rail network during the Beeching cuts in the 1960’s.
If approved, the station would offer hourly services between Wigan and Manchester Victoria, reducing journey times into the city centre by up to 30 minutes.
It would also provide a vital link for the nearby town of Leigh, currently one of the largest towns in the country without a rail station.
The proposed station if approved will be built on the site of the original rail station, which sits on the West Coast Mainline. It is designed to be fully accessible, with step-free access, a footbridge, and lifts to both platforms. Additionally, plans include an improved town centre car park and new walking and cycling links.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “It has taken a huge effort to get us to this point, but we have finally reached a major milestone on the journey to reconnect Golborne to the rail network for the first time in over 60 years.
“The proposal is based on extremely sound evidence and huge progress has been made with a planning application being submitted and overwhelming support from local residents.”
“This won’t just be transformative step for the local community. This station is a key element in our plans to bring rail into the Bee Network and will help unlock economic growth by opening up access to skilled jobs and opportunities across the city-region.
“This plan for the first new station in Greater Manchester in more than 20 years will give more people the option to use public transport. We’re thankful to the many residents who’ve had their say throughout this process and helped shaped these plans.”
Local residents and stakeholders have overwhelmingly supported the project, with over 90% of respondents expressing their approval during public consultation. If the planning application is successful, construction is expected to commence in 2026, with the station opening in 2027.
Jo Platt, MP for Leigh and Atherton, said: “Having advocated for the re-opening of Golborne station since first being in parliament in 2017, I’m pleased to see significant progress being made.
“The area has been without rail connectivity for over 60 years, so I welcome the much-needed connectivity that this will bring to residents. It will better connect the local community to jobs, education and leisure activities, and is a major step towards making Golborne an even greater place to live and work.
Mayor Burnham has been keen to expand the Bee Network since its inception earlier this year. In July, TfGM announced it was looking into integrating routes to Rochdale, Manchester Airport, Glossop, Buxton and Wigan into the network.
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