Network Rail urges passengers to plan ahead before half-term improvements between Stockport and Manchester

Network Rail is advising rail passengers in Greater Manchester to check journeys before they travel while major improvements to tracks on the southern approach to Manchester Piccadilly station take place in February 2026.

Over nine days from Saturday 14 February, Network Rail teams will be completing a huge overhaul of tracks, points and signalling systems across six railway lines into the region’s busiest station.

No trains from south and east of the city, including Stockport, will run into Manchester Piccadilly for nine days over February half term (Saturday 14 – Sunday 22). As a result, all Avanti and Cross Country services into Manchester will terminate at Stockport, as well as services from Sheffield and local trains, with rail replacement buses in place to complete journeys into the city centre.

Trains to Manchester Airport will also be affected by the works, with only a limited service from Crewe in place; all other services will be replaced by buses.

Rebecca Rathore, Network Rail’s North West route strategy director, said:

“We are a month away from our £7.9m investment to renew the Piccadilly corridor, a stretch of track critical to the journeys of around 400,000 trains into Manchester every year. 

“This work is going to significantly reduce disruption for the many passengers who regularly use this route. Once the job is done, we will have a better, more reliable railway. 

“The major overhaul over six railway lines can only take place during a full railway closure and we have worked closely with train operators, TfGM and Manchester City Council to develop an alternative travel plan that will keep people on the move. Please, plan your journey in advance as we are expecting services to be busy. We are grateful for your understanding.” 

During works, Network Rail is advising passengers to travel light, allow extra time for their journey and be prepared to queue, as stations and rail replacement services are expected to be very busy.

A spokesperson for train operators added:

“This work will improve the reliability of trains running into the region’s busiest station.

“During this essential work, we’re expecting services to be busy, so please plan ahead and allow extra travel time. Please check with your specific operator or with National Rail Enquiries for detailed journey information.”

Network Rail has worked with train operators, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and Manchester City Council to develop an alternative travel plan during the closure, to keep passengers moving smoothly to their destination. 

TfGM will be supporting with ticket acceptance across a range of Bee Network bus and Metrolink services on affected routes and more information will follow ahead of the work beginning.