The creation of a new train station is hotly anticipated over in Golborne, Wigan, and it has now been confirmed that work is getting underway this weekend.
Set to include surveys and ground investigations, this early stage will lay the groundwork for the rest of the project and marks the first step in connecting Golborne and its surrounding areas – including Leigh, Ashton-in-Makerfield and Culcheth – to Manchester and Wigan by rail for the first time in over 60 years.
Jo Platt, MP for Leigh and Atherton, posted on social media: “It’s great to see things moving forward, with preliminary works for Golborne Train Station due to begin on 1 and 8 August. These early works will include surveys and ground investigations, marking the first step towards reconnecting Golborne and the surrounding area to the rail network for the first time in more than 60 years.
“I know many people have been keen to see progress on this project, so it’s encouraging to see work getting underway. I’m looking forward to seeing it continue to take shape and bringing better transport links back to our community”
What is the timeline on the new Golborne train station?
Following strong public support in a 2024 consultation, the station received planning approval in April 2025.
Andy Burnham, then Mayor of Greater Manchester, said in an update last winter: “Golborne will play a vital role in our ambitious plans to make travel across Greater Manchester easier, greener, simpler and more connected.
“This forms part of our plans to expand the Bee Network, with 64 stations joining by 2028 and a further 32 by 2030 – a major step towards delivering a fully integrated transport system for our city-region. I’m pleased that, after decades of being cut off from our train network, Golborne will be at the heart of the change.”
How will the new train station help the people of Golborne?
Golborne currently has no direct bus, train or tram services to Manchester. An hourly service between Wigan and Manchester Victoria will cut journey times into Manchester city centre by up to 30 minutes.
The new, accessible two-platform station will feature improved car parking and better walking and cycling links to the town centre. The station will also enable seamless connections between local bus and rail services, supporting Greater Manchester’s vision for a fully integrated Bee Network by 2030.
The station will also support the regeneration ambitions for the town and the emerging Golborne & Lowton West Neighbourhood Plan. The station will also be less than 2km from Haydock Park Racecourse, providing new options for those getting to race day events, reducing the numbers of cars on the surrounding roads.
