Rochdale could see new direct train route to London within four years

Friday, 17 May 2024 17:13

By Adam Clark

Rochdale could see a new direct train route to London as soon as 2027.

FirstGroup has submitted the first phase of an application for a new open-access rail service to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), restoring this direct link for the first time in almost a quarter of a century.

The proposal are for six return journeys a day aiming to restore a direct Rochdale to London link via Manchester Victoria which last ran in the year 2000.

The trains will run from Rochdale to London Euston, calling at Manchester Victoria, Eccles, Newton-le-Willows and Warrington Bank Quay.

It is anticipated that services could begin in the 2027 calendar year.

Graham Sutherland, FirstGroup Chief Executive Officer said: “We have extensive experience of running open access rail operations and we want to bring our successful Lumo service to this new route that connects Rochdale and London.

"We have seen the level of growth and opportunity that is possible with open access, as well as the positive effect it has on the wider market, including economic and environmental benefits.

"In addition, the new service will help to drive modal shift from road to rail between the North West and London. We will be working closely with stakeholders as we build our application and our case for this new service.”

Daniel Meredith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing at Rochdale Council added: "A step in the right direction for rail users within Rochdale Borough. Rochdale is on the up, no matter how much certain people talk our town down.

"Our rail strategy, is key to delivering a green sustainable transport to residents across the Borough, improving housing options (not just for new residents but the existing community) and working with local businesses to build on our vibrant economy.

"Electrification and high-speed rail is essential for connecting our city hubs and surrounding towns."

A consultation period will now follow, as well as a discussion with Network Rail to secure the required approvals.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Tesco hikes price of bags for life to 40p in UK-wide supermarket change

Tesco has raised the cost of its reusable carrier bags, sparking frustration among some shoppers while the supermarket says the move supports sustainability goals.
NHS service launches same-day mental health support for Rochdale's young people

Young people across Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale can now book same-day appointments with the #Thrive mental health team as part of a new NHS support model.
Remembrance services to be held across Rochdale as borough comes together to honour the fallen

The borough will pause to remember on Sunday 9 November, with services and parades taking place in every township to honour servicemen and women past and present
Three Rochdale men charged with historic child sex offences involving teenage girl

Seven charges including multiple rapes brought against three men following major CSE investigation in Rochdale
MP joins basketball club to back grassroots sport in Bury North

Bury North MP James Frith took to the court with under-10s at Elton Basketball Club during a recent visit, praising the club’s grassroots spirit and its impact on local youth.
Police step up patrols as Halloween and Bonfire Night approach in Greater Manchester

Officers promise robust action against antisocial behaviour as part of 'Darker Nights' campaign
Locals honoured at Rochdale Diversity Awards 2025 for championing equality and inclusion

Town hall ceremony celebrates organisations and individuals making Rochdale a fairer, more welcoming borough
Crumpsall terror attack victim’s family thanks public for overwhelming support

The family of Melvin Cravitz say messages, vigils and small acts of kindness have brought strength in the wake of a devastating synagogue attack
Tetrosyl faces backlash over ‘fire and rehire’ move as union threatens industrial action

Usdaw registers formal dispute as local MPs condemn tactics affecting Rochdale workers
True crime stage show with live psychopath test coming to Rochdale this November

Rochdale true crime fans are being invited to test their own inner darkness as a nationwide live show exploring staged murders arrives in town next month.
Fake 999 calls put lives at risk, police warn after surge in hoax and abusive contacts

Greater Manchester Police say they are cracking down on malicious 999 calls after several arrests and convictions, including a man jailed for eight months and a woman accused of making over 140 abusive calls in just three months.
Row erupts over Diversity Awards as Workers Party councillor criticises event he did not attend

A political row has broken out over the Rochdale Diversity Awards after a councillor from the Workers Party of Britain accused organisers and speakers of politicising the event, prompting rebuttals from local Labour representatives.