Stalybridge to Diggle (Saddleworth) scheme

As part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade, we are proposing a number of changes between Stalybridge and Diggle (Saddleworth).

This includes relocating Mossley Station and upgrading Greenfield Station, as well as the reconstruction of various bridges, tunnels and highways. This will allow us to install the overhead line equipment (OLE) that will power faster, cleaner trains through the area.

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

A Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) is required to deliver these elements of the Transpennine Route Upgrade. This is a piece of legislation approved by the Secretary of State for Transport, granting permission to carry out the work.

Please visit our virtual consultation room.

Key benefits

Our proposed scheme has a number of crucial benefits:

Supporting economic growth

The upgrade will enhance connectivity between Northern cities with more trains and faster journeys, facilitating access to jobs and services. This will support economic growth in the North and deliver real benefits for passengers, communities and freight services along this vital rail artery.

Improved safety

We are responsible for maintaining the railway network, and this includes making it as safe as possible for passengers and the public. Level crossings can pose a serious risk to users. By increasing the line speed and frequency of trains, this risk is likely to increase. We want to create a safer way for people to cross to reduce the risk of any accidents.

Enhanced accessibility and user experience

Relocating and upgrading stations will make the railway more accessible and user-friendly. This will help support faster and more frequent trains. Improved infrastructure and services will enhance passenger experience, benefit commuters, and enhance regional connectivity.

Greener travel

We are electrifying the whole route to enable quieter, greener trains to run, reducing our carbon footprint and improving air quality for the communities along our route.

Community benefits

The upgrade will improve transport links, safety, and environmental conditions for local communities. It ensures the railway meets future demands, supporting long-term growth and sustainability, securing lasting benefits for all stakeholders.

Our plans

Below is a summary of each element of the proposed works included in our Transport and Works Act Order application. Documents we submit as part of the Order will be posted to this webpage in the coming months.

Public consultation

We are carrying out a public consultation to share our proposals with the local community and hear your feedback on our plans.

The consultation takes place between Monday 16 September – Friday 25 October 2024. We are hosting a virtual consultation room (link at the top of this page) and a series of in-person events. Following the consultation process, we will consider all the feedback received in order to develop detailed designs. We will also apply for permission to build the Scheme, using a Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO).

Have your say

Please provide your feedback on our plans here.

You will be able to view our proposals and share your views by visiting our virtual public consultation room between Monday 16 September and Friday 25 October 2024.

We will also be holding the following public events for you to see our plans and chat with our project team:

Over the coming years, we will be making further improvements too, and the works represented in this public consultation does not represent the entirety of the upgrade between Stalybridge and Diggle (Saddleworth).

Contact us

If you have any questions or require more information about the Scheme, you can email us at TranspennineEngagement@networkrail.co.uk

You can also visit our contact us page or call our 24-hour National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41. Please quote “Stalybridge to Diggle (Saddleworth) TWAO” to be directed to the correct team.