Motorists warned of disruption due to rail upgrade

Motorists have been warned they will face disruption while a "vital" upgrade of a railway line takes place.

Major changes due to be made to a train route that runs through Oldham will require temporary road diversions in the surrounding area, the council has warned.

Network Rail has plans to fully electrify the trainline running between Stalybridge and Greenfield, which will include the reconstruction of Oldham Road bridge.

The works will improve accessibility at Greenfield for the first time in the station's history by building a new footbridge with lifts and lengthening the platform in preparation for longer trains.

Transport boss councillor Josh Charters said: "This is a vital upgrade to the route which will bring a number of benefits, including improving accessibility at Greenfield Station and improving reliability on the network by having a fully electrified line.

"Whilst this will cause some disruption, it's essential that we improve our rail infrastructure, ensuring that it's fit for the future."

The works on Greenfield station would involve dismantling the existing footbridge while overhead line equipment for the electric trains was installed.

Then a new footbridge would be fitted in its place to provide step-free access to both platforms.

Access "will be maintained to both platforms throughout the works", Network Rail said.

Improvements on the station will be the first to be completed in the area, followed by the reconstruction of Oldham Road Bridge.

Another new footbridge will be built alongside the road, separating pedestrians from the highway.

Temporary road diversions will be in operation while the works take place, which could cause delays for motorists.

Local MP Debbie Abrahams encouraged residents to voice their support for, or raise concerns about the plan.

The parliamentary representative for Oldham East and Saddleworth said: "There are major upgrades proposed across the train route between Stalybridge and Saddleworth.

"Network Rail are holding a consultation which will close on 25 October 2024 and is a chance for the public to have their say."

Network Rail were contacted for further comment.

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