A new partnership between Network Rail and Transport for Greater Manchester has been announced today, with a joint aim to develop proposals for six stations in Manchester and Salford.

This partnership is the first of its kind between the two organisations and will focus on developing proposals for Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria, Manchester Oxford Road, Deansgate, Salford Central and Salford Crescent.

Network Rail says that the population of Greater Manchester is set to grow by 2,950,000 by 2031 and this partnership aims to meet the demands of future generations.

Along with the plans, the two organisations have agreed to commit to the a number of goals, including delivering an integrated transport system, considering each station a part of the community, Net Zero transport as a key focus and finally, access for all.

Commenting on today’s announcement, Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill CBE, Chair of Network Rail said: “This is a landmark moment for Manchester and Salford, to see our two organisations build a partnership team to make the best of our resources and expertise. Working jointly with the Local Authorities we are putting passengers and rail services at the forefront of infrastructure investment and wider neighbourhood improvements.”

Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, added: “The ever-changing skylines across Salford and Manchester city centres reflect the extent to which Greater Manchester is growing.

“As we deliver our Bee Network plans for a truly integrated network, it is vital our rail stations – and surrounding areas – evolve to meet these demands, and this new partnership signifies our joint commitment alongside Manchester and Salford districts to delivering a modernised railway that puts passengers and local communities at its heart.”