Work begins on the first new train station in Greater Manchester in 25 years

Greater Manchester’s first new train station of the 21st century is now being built, reconnecting Golborne near Wigan to the railway network for the first time in more than 60 years.

Set to open in spring 2028, the new station will be served by an hourly service between Wigan and Stalybridge, via Manchester Victoria. It’s good news for the town which currently has no direct bus, train or tram services to Manchester. It is expected to reduce journey times from Golborne to Manchester city centre by 30 minutes.

The station will have step-free access throughout, plus a new footbridge across the tracks and lifts to both platforms. The car park next to the station will be resurfaced and given upgraded lighting and CCTV, while walking, wheeling and cycling routes between the town centre and the station will be improved.

Mayor of Greater Manchester Bev Craig visited the site. She said, “People in Golborne have been crying out for better transport links. We’ve listened and we’re building a brand-new train station that will reconnect the community to the rail network for the first time in more than 60 years.

“It’s a big moment for Greater Manchester too – our first new train station in more than 25 years – and I can’t wait to board the first trains stopping here. It’s brilliant to see work getting going on site.

“We’re working with the rail industry to better join-up rail services with our buses and trams. I’ve promised to continue to grow the Bee Network and this is another big step on that journey to connect our communities better than ever before.”

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), working with Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Wigan Council, is behind the project which is being paid for through locally devolved government funding. Golborne-based engineering firm Murphy will be constructing the new station.