Greater Manchester town to finally get a train station and connect to the network for the first time in more than 60 years

A new train station could soon be built in a Wigan town after plans were tabled with the council. The blueprints would see Golborne connected to the rail network for the first time in more than 60 years.

The area currently has no direct bus, train or tram services to Manchester. The move would reduce journey times into the city centre by up to 30 minutes.

Nearby Leigh is the biggest town in England without a train station, while the wider area – including Lowton – is the largest and most populous area in Greater Manchester not connected to rail network.

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The proposal includes a new accessible two-platform rail station with a footbridge across the tracks and lifts to both platforms; a new hourly service between Wigan and Manchester Victoria and onwards to Stalybridge; an improved town centre car park; and new walking and cycling links to the town centre.

If the plans are approved, work on site should begin in 2026 with the new station scheduled to open in 2027 - improving access to travel, work and leisure opportunities in the city-region.

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “It has taken a huge effort to get us to this point, but we have finally reached a major milestone on the journey to reconnect Golborne to the rail network for the first time in over 60 years.

“The proposal is based on extremely sound evidence and huge progress has been made with a planning application being submitted and overwhelming support from local residents.

"This won’t just be transformative step for the local community. This station is a key element in our plans to bring rail into the Bee Network and will help unlock economic growth by