Major upgrades to deliver improvements for passengers and the wider rail network are being proposed by Network Rail as part of the Manchester Oxford Road Station Remodelling Scheme.
The consultation launched today will consider upgrades including longer platforms, track and signalling improvements, as well as construction of a new station footbridge with lifts serving all platforms.
Outline proposals being brought forward by Network Rail include reconfiguring the platform layout, leaving a total of three platforms each capable of accommodating longer trains. The two, longer through-platforms will be able to take eight car trains, while a new turn-back platform will accommodate six car trains; an increase in capacity of two cars per platform.
Proposed track layout and signalling improvements will reduce congestion by removing conflicting train movements. Overhead line equipment will also be upgraded, as well as over 900m of new track being laid.
The remodelling scheme includes improvements to accessibility throughout the station, featuring a new footbridge with increased movement space for passengers and new lifts allowing step free access to all platforms. Wider, resurfaced platforms and improvements to existing lifts are also planned.
Pete Winters, Senior Project lead for Network Rail, said: “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.”
Craig Harrop, regional director for Northern in the North West, said: “We’re really excited about the redevelopment of Manchester Oxford Road station and the enhanced experience this will provide our colleagues and customers.
“It’s an iconic station and one of the main gateways to the city and so I would encourage local residents and rail users to get involved and voice their opinion on the plans.”
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council said: “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.
The first round of consultation on Manchester Oxford Road Remodelling scheme will run from 20 January to 28 February 2025. During this period, a virtual consultation room and feedback form will be available at here
There will also be drop-in events to view the plans and speak with the team:
- Event one: Saturday 1 February 2025, 11am to 4pm
- Event two: Monday 17 February 2025, 2pm to 7pm
Venue: Friends’ Meeting House, 6 Mount Street, Manchester M2 5NS
