Full steam ahead for station transfer

Castleton Train Station

A proposal to transfer the borough’s five train stations to local ownership is on track thanks to an ambitious £400M plan by Transport for Greater Manchester.

If given the green light it will mean Rochdale, Smithy Bridge, Castleton, Litteborough and Mills Hill stations will be handed over to Transport for Greater Manchester by current owners Network Rail.

In total 97 Victorian stations throughout the region could swap hands if the transfer is approved by government.

The proposals come as Greater Manchester receives devolved powers over transport and other areas as part of its devolution deal with government.

Although no firm plans have been drawn up yet, it is hoped the councils will transform the tired looking stations into venues hosting services such as GP surgeries, gyms, art galleries and even concert halls.

It is hoped the surrounding disused, often unsightly land can be earmarked for improvement and the creation of new, much-needed affordable homes.

Rochdale Council leader, Councillor Richard Farnell said: “As long as it doesn’t hit the buffers this idea is really exciting for our borough.

“Having control of our five stations will mean we will be able to invest in them, improve them and make them far more welcoming for commuters, passengers and visitors. They could also be developed for greater community use. Once the transfer has been confirmed we’ll start work on plans to radically improve these worn-out stations.”