A public consultation seeking views on a new railway station at Golborne, in Wigan Borough, is set to launch in the new year.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is working with Wigan Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to deliver the city-region’s first new railway station in more than 20 years.
The ambitious plans form a key part of the Bee Network – Greater Manchester’s vision for a joined-up London-style public transport system – and the scheme forms part of significant investment locally to support GMCA’s ambitions to make local rail an integral part of the Bee Network by 2030.
Links to the proposed station would be provided by new walking and cycling routes, as well as existing bus services.
Rail users, residents and businesses will be invited to give their opinions on the scheme to ensure that local views are considered before a final business case is submitted to government.
The consultation will gather views on the proposed design of the station facilities and its links to the local area. It will also gather information from respondents about people’s potential future use of the station.
It will seek feedback on the following:
• Location of proposed new eastern access to Golborne town centre
• Facilities within the station
• Accessibility for all station users
• Car park improvements
• Walking, cycling and other active travel measures
TfGM’s Head of Rail Simon Elliott said: “Greater Manchester’s exciting plans for Golborne station would vastly improve public transport connectivity for people in Golborne, Lowton and Leigh, as well as the broader borough of Wigan, bringing significant economic and environmental benefits.
“It also represents a crucial step forward in developing the Bee Network and realising our ambitions for local rail to form part of Greater Manchester’s integrated public transport system by 2030.
“I would encourage residents, businesses and rail users to respond to the consultation once it goes live. We are keen to hear the views from the local area.”
People will also be able to have their say through an online consultation portal that will go live from 4 January 2024, or by attending one of a series of drop-in sessions.
Further details, including consultation portal links, will be provided in the new year.
Image credit: TfGM
