The UK rail minister Huw Merriman will visit Manchester Victoria station to announce the £72 million scheme to improve train services. It follows an investment of £82,4 million last year to reduce delays throughout the North West.
Using the new funds intended to improve train service throughout the North. A third platform will be added to Salford Crescent station. As part of the government’s investment, the platforms at Victoria Station in Manchester will also be upgraded.
And now ‘turnback tracks’ will be constructed near Salford Central in an effort to reduce train congestion. The announcement comes after months of delays, cancellations, and strikes that caused disruptions for train passengers.
However, according to the government, this £72 million programme will help reduce station delays. Decrease bottlenecks and overcrowding so that passengers can enjoy more comfortable and dependable journeys. Transport Secretary Mark Harper stated, “This investment supports our commitment to transform train services throughout the North by delivering desperately needed infrastructure upgrades in Manchester.”
“Today’s funding, along with major projects such as HS2, the TransPennine Route Upgrade, and Northern Powerhouse Rail, demonstrates our commitment to enhancing opportunities for passengers throughout the region and leaving a positive legacy for future generations.”
More opportunities with more development
In accordance with a new devolution agreement, the government has consented to grant Greater Manchester more control over the railways. During negotiations for the Trailblazer agreement, the Labour mayor of the city, Andy Burnham. Argued that the five city-centre stations require immediate investment.
He now has greater influence over local train services, which he intends to incorporate into his Bee Network, a London-style public transport system. Now, he applauds the most recent investment in the city region’s railways.
He stated, “There is a tremendous opportunity to improve rail travel for residents and businesses in Greater Manchester and the North. And this infrastructure investment is a positive step in the right direction.”
“Through the Task Force and our Trailblazer agreement, we will continue to work with the government and the industry. To shape the comprehensive package of improvements required to transform rail travel and support our expanding economy. So that more jobs and homes can be created.”
