A new lift has officially opened at Daisy Hill station, providing step-free access for the first time. The £4 million upgrade, delivered by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), Northern, and Network Rail, includes an accessible toilet, improved parking, and revamped ticket office facilities.
The project was celebrated by community members, accessibility campaigners, Bolton Council Leader Cllr Nick Peel, and MP for Bolton West Phil Brickell. It’s part of a wider initiative to make 63% of Greater Manchester’s stations accessible by 2028, supported by government funding through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement and the Department for Transport’s Access for All scheme.
Cllr Peel praised the investment as a “vital lifeline” for disabled passengers, while MP Brickell called it “a great step in the right direction.” Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy emphasized the government’s commitment to accessible transport, noting the £2.75m contribution to the project.
Future step-free upgrades are planned at Irlam, Swinton, Hindley, Bryn, and other stations. Dame Sarah Storey, Greater Manchester’s Active Travel Commissioner, called the Daisy Hill improvements “a welcome first step” in creating an inclusive Bee Network.
Craig Harrop of Northern and Tommy Fleming from Network Rail reiterated their commitment to making rail travel more accessible, while Story Contracting’s Martin Smith celebrated the successful delivery of the project.
Passengers can now enjoy direct, step-free travel from Daisy Hill to central Manchester in under 35 minutes.
Image credit: Transport for Greater Manchester Press Office
