'Exciting plans' - Images show how two new Greater Manchester train stations could look

Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is planning major upgrades across the section of the route between Stalybridge and Diggle in Saddleworth. This includes improvements, bridge works to allow overhead line equipment and full electrification which should be able to power faster, cleaner and more reliable trains.

Improved accessibility and platform extensions at both stations is also on the cards, according to operator Network Rail. Before any final decisions are made, Network Rail have launched a public consultation on 16 September 16. The consultation on this area of TRU will close on October 25 and is a chance for the public to have their say.

Mark Ashton, TRU Sponsor said: “The TRU Stalybridge to Diggle (Saddleworth) public consultation is the opportunity for the public to hear about our exciting plans for the area, which includes improved, more accessible stations at Mossley and Greenfield for the first time in the route’s history.

“We want to bring the people of Stalybridge, Heyrod, Mossley, Greenfield, Uppermill and Diggle with us on this journey. I urge the local community and businesses to look at our plans through our virtual consultation room or at the in-person events and let us know their thoughts through our feedback form.”

There will be three in-person drop-in events to view the plans and speak with TRU staff:

• September 18, 3pm-8pm: St Peters RC Church, 119 Brierley Street, Stalybridge
• September 19, 3pm-8pm: Saddleworth Rangers RLFC, Shaw Hall Bank Road, Greenfield
• September 20, 3pm-8pm: Mossley Methodist Church, Chapel Street, Mossley

If plans go ahead, Mossley station would be relocated 300 metres northeast of the current station, in the direction of Greenfield. This will allow space to provide a better travel experience through an improved, more accessible station which will include a new footbridge and lifts. 

As well as improved accessibility, both Mossley and Greenfield stations will see platform extensions, giving the space for longer services to use the station, which would allow more seats for customers.

TRU is a major, multi-billion-pound programme of improvements that will transform journeys across the North, better-connecting towns and cities through more frequent, faster, greener trains between Manchester, Leeds and York, running on a better, cleaner and more reliable railway.

The public consultation will also present further details on the installation of OLE on the iconic Uppermill Viaduct, also known as Saddleworth Viaduct.  A virtual consultation room and feedback form will open on 16 September at www.networkrail.co.uk/stalybridgetodiggle.

Following the consultation process, TRU will consider all the feedback received from the local community and other stakeholders. A Transport and Works Act Order application will then be submitted to the Secretary of State in Summer 2025.