Network Rail has unveiled plans to enhance passenger experience and improve the rail network as part of the Manchester Oxford Road Station Remodelling Scheme.

The proposed upgrades, now open for public consultation, aim to deliver longer platforms, improved track and signalling, and the construction of a new footbridge with step-free access to all platforms.

Key changes include reconfiguring the platform layout to increase capacity. The station will feature three upgraded platforms:

• Two through-platforms capable of accommodating eight-car trains

• A new turn-back platform designed for six-car trains

The adjustments will boost platform capacity by two cars per platform, enabling the station to handle more passengers and longer trains.

The scheme also focuses on tackling congestion by redesigning the track layout to eliminate conflicting train movements and upgrading the overhead line equipment. Over 900 meters of new track will be laid as part of these efforts.

Accessibility and Passenger Experience

Accessibility improvements are central to the project. Plans include:

• A new, spacious footbridge with lifts providing step-free access to all platforms

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• Resurfaced and widened platforms for improved passenger flow

• Upgrades to existing lifts

The public is invited to review and provide feedback on the outline proposals, ensuring community input informs the final design.

These upgrades are set to transform Manchester Oxford Road Station, enhancing capacity, accessibility, and efficiency while supporting the growing needs of passengers and the wider rail network.

Key benefits of the scheme are:

• Increasing the length of the platforms will mean an extra 120 seats will be available on services calling at the station

• Improving the track and signalling will increase flexibility, and so improving reliability across the regional network, supporting an increase from 12 to 14 trains per hour

• Improvements to the station's platforms and footbridge will create a more accessible and inviting environment for passengers.

• Longer platforms will enable interfacing schemes, such as the Transpennine Route Upgrade, to deliver their full benefits including longer trains running on the wider network

The design of the footbridge, staircase and canopies takes into consideration the surrounding area, including buildings of historic value, such as the Grade II listed station building and platform canopies at Manchester Oxford Road Station itself, as well as other buildings Whitworth Street and Oxford Road.

Feedback is being invited on all scheme elements, such as design, construction and the impacts of the scheme on the rail network, environment and community.

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

A second round of consultation is due to take place before the end of 2025, which will focus on environmental and construction information. Once both consultations have been considered, Network Rail will submit the applications needed to build the scheme in 2026.