Work to reconnect Cheadle to the rail network for the first time in more than 60 years is officially getting underway.
Marking a major milestone for the much-anticipated transport project, works will begin this week. The first stage will include highways work and trial hole works.
Following years of detailed technical work, led by partners across the rail industry and backed by Stockport Council, a key obstacle that had stalled progress on the scheme has now taken a huge leap forward.
The latest assessment by rail industry partners has demonstrated that the risks of delay to services along the line can be reasonably managed and should not be considered as a reason for stopping further progress being made on the Cheadle project.
The breakthrough follows a sustained campaign by Stockport Council and local partners to secure the station. Once completed, the station is expected to improve access to jobs, education and opportunities across the region.
It means work on the highway near the location of the station can finally start on site this week, following months of detailed technical work involving the Department for Transport, Network Rail, Northern, Transport for Greater Manchester, Stockport Council and local partners.
Cllr Mark Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council, said: “This is a hugely significant moment for Cheadle and for Stockport.
“For years we’ve fought for this station because we know the difference it will make to residents, businesses and the future prosperity of the area.
“Cheadle Station has always been about improving connections, creating opportunities and making it easier for people to travel for work, education and leisure and I am delighted that the highways work can now start on site later this month thanks to the persistence and partnership of all involved.”
The rail industry’s latest position recognises that more work will need to be done so that the removal of services at Ashley and Plumley is no longer required.
You can read more about the Cheadle Railway project here.
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Image credit: Stockport Council
- Words:
- Bradley Lengden
- Published on:
- Mon 28 Sep 2026
