Better facilities and increased security at train station

A train at Rochdale train station

Rochdale train station is one of two stations in Greater Manchester to have been upgraded as part of the National Stations Improvement Programme.

The second, Altrincham station, has also received its share of benefits from a £1.89m investment.

The improvements mean that Rochdale train station now has two new enclosed passenger waiting rooms with glass frontages for additional security. They also include new information screens, announcement system and CCTV cameras.

In the ticket office, a new accessible counter has been installed to make buying rail tickets easier for disabled passengers, and the station entrance now has new sliding doors. The subway flooring leading to the platforms has also been enhanced.

For the benefit of less able passengers, the leading edges of the stairs to platform level have been enhanced and a double height handrail has been fixed to the wall.

At platform level the canopies have been painted, drainage has been improved and lighting has been changed to give brighter illumination.

The toilet facilities have been completely upgraded, with new tiling, lighting and ventilation. A second ladies toilet has been opened after being out of use for some time.

Throughout the station, the number of CCTV cameras has been increased with the addition of another 11 new cameras, providing improved coverage.

Councillor Keith Whitmore, chairman of Transport for Greater Manchester Committee, said: “I’m delighted at the improvements that have been delivered at these popular stations. I am sure that they will be well received.

“It’s important that we work with our partners at Network Rail and Northern Rail to ensure passengers feel welcome, comfortable and safe when they’re travelling.”

Lee Wasnidge, area director for Northern Rail, added: "The security of our passengers and employees will be greatly improved by the work at both Rochdale and Altrincham and we have worked hard with our partners to deliver this fantastic programme of enhancement.

“Thanks to the improvement to facilities, passengers will also now enjoy a more pleasant journey experience when travelling through both of these stations.”

Alan Howarth, Network Rail scheme sponsor, said: “Working with Transport for Greater Manchester and Northern Rail has been a truly co-operative process, with Network Rail administering funds on behalf of the DfT, TfGM contributing a substantial part of their own money and Northern delivering the on-site work.”