Network Rail Launches Consultation on Manchester Oxford Road Station
Network Rail has launched a public consultation on plans to deliver a series of major upgrades at Manchester Oxford Road Station.
Network Rail has launched a public consultation on plans to deliver a series of major upgrades at Manchester Oxford Road Station.
Proposed improvements for both passengers and the wider rail network include increasing track platform lengths, track & signalling upgrades and the construction of a new station footbridge with enhanced accessibility provisions.
With the reconfigured platform layout, the station will be capable of utilising longer trains on three separate platforms, with two, longer through-platform able to serve trains with up to eight cars, whilst a new turn-back platform will be capable of accommodating trains with up to six cars, allowing an extra 120 seats for all services calling at the station.
Track and signalling improvements are hoped to reduce congestion, with upgrades also set to be installed on overhead line equipment at the station. Plans are also in place to lay over 900m of new track.
If approved, the station’s new footbridge will be designed to support increased movement space for passengers and new lifts for step-free access.
“The Manchester Oxford Road Remodelling Scheme consultation is an opportunity for the public to hear about our exciting plans for the station, which include platform, track and signalling upgrades, alongside improvements to station accessibility.
“We want to bring all station users, as well as the local community with us on the journey of improving this important station. I urge the local community and station users to let us know their thoughts so that they can be taken into account as the designs progress.”
Network Rail has invited feedback from the public on all elements of the improvement plan, with the first round of consultation on the Manchester Oxford Road Remodelling scheme set to run from 20 January to 28 February 2025.
The public are encouraged to leave their feedback either via a virtual consultation room managed by Network Rail or via a feedback form, which can be accessed here.
“We have said for a long time that Oxford Road Station is in need of a range of improvements from easing the congestion, increasing capacity, improving reliability and ensuring that the station is accessible for all commuters.
“This consultation will be a positive step in achieving those goals and ensuring that the needs of the tens of thousands of people who travel through Oxford Road on a daily basis are being met.
“Any future development will be a long-term project but infrastructure upgrades like these are essential if we are to continue growing Manchester as the leading city of the North.”
In addition to accepting online submissions, there will also be a pair of drop-in events to view plans and communicate any concerns to the team responsible. These events will be held at Friends’ Meeting House, 6 Mount Street, Manchester M2 5NS, on Saturday 1 February from 11am to 4pm and Monday 17 February from 2pm to 7pm.
An additional round of consultation will take place by the end of 2025, with the application submission set for delivery in 2026.
If successful, works are expected to close the station for roughly two years, subject to change.
