Two new platforms, a train tunnel under Manchester linking HS2 fast trains to Leeds, moving the Metrolink station north, closing Fairfield Street and moving Chorlton Street coach station could be on the cards before 2026 according to a new report released today.

The National Infrastructure Commision appointed consultants Arup back in December 2015 to examine the Piccadilly redevelopment area ahead of the arrival of HS2 and plans for the Northern Rail Hub as well as assessing the rail links between Manchester and Leeds.

The report out this morning, which also looks at the maximisation  of commercial opportunities at the station and maximisation
of regeneration in the area around the station, proposes the following:

1.Opening the station undercroft to public use for retail and circulation

2. Moving the Metrolink route to the north of the station

3. Closure of Fairfield eld Street between London Road and Travis Street

4. Potential relocation of the existing Chorlton Street coach station to the
south of the station

5. Either repositioning or relocation of taxi and drop o facilities either within
the new coach station or to the north of the station

6. Moving of the car parking spaces in the undercroft to adjacent available
locations for parking

7. Introduction of Platforms 15 and 16 to the south for improved through rail
movements

Two additional platforms are proposed on the southern side of the station, creating an expansion alongside the existing annex platforms 13 and 14 (currently the only ‘through’ platforms). 

This scheme was developed as part of Network Rail’s Northern Hub programme. It includes the expansion of the existing platform 13 and 14 concourse.

Manchester City Council have developed the Piccadilly Strategic Regeneration Framework Area which identifies  a Zone of 140 acres around the south and east sides of Piccadilly Station. 

This area,says the report, is currently underperforming and still contains many underdeveloped or low value former industrial and commercial sites and is a focus area for the City Council. It contains the sub-area termed Mayfield Development Area which is to the south of Piccadilly Station.

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