Work progresses on £100 million programme to improve accessibility at rail stations across Greater Manchester

Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM) programme to improve accessibility at rail stations across the city-region is progressing at pace, as work begins at Swinton station in Salford, joining Bryn, Hindley and Reddish North Stations where work is already underway.

The £100 million programme of works aims to improve accessibility of Victorian-era stations across the network. Improvements supported by the scheme, which vary from station to station, include new passenger lifts and step-free access to platforms, accessible ticket offices, accessible toilets and baby changing facilities, and improved lighting and CCTVto improve safety and security on the railway.

Alongside improvements currently underway, TfGM will start work in Spring 2027 at Levenshulme, Flowery Field, and Newton for Hyde stations. Three more Stockport stations will be upgraded in 2028: Bredbury, Woodsmoor and Davenport.

The work supports Greater Manchester’s plans to bring eight commuter rail lines into the Bee Network by 2028 and create a more accessible, joined-up public transport system.

It also aligns with pledges that will help the city-region deliver its Greater Manchester Strategy vision for a world-class, integrated transport system that will support growth and access to opportunity for all.

Bev Craig, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:

“Greater Manchester’s old Victorian railway stations may be full of character, but the reality is they often act as a barrier to people catching the train.

“It’s not right that people need to travel miles to a different station or find another way to get around, just because they can’t get up the station stairs.”

Kerry Peters, Director of Stations for rail operating company, Northern, said:

“Step-free access transforms what a station can offer passengers, opening up rail travel to people who have previously found the stairs a barrier, whether that’s wheelchair users, parents with buggies, or older passengers.

“We’ll continue to work closely with TfGM and Network Rail throughout the project to keep disruption to a minimum, and we’d like to thank passengers for their patience while this vital work takes place.”