Greater Manchester Unveils 2050 Rail Vision to Boost Capacity, Accessibility, and Integration

The new framework aims to increase capacity and improve accessibility across Greater Manchester’s rail network by 2050

Transport for Greater ManchesterTransport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has launched a comprehensive 30-year plan to modernise and expand the city-region’s rail network.

Titled “On the Right Track for Growth: A 2050 Vision for the Future of Rail in Greater Manchester,” the strategy was presented by Mayor Andy Burnham at the Public Transport in the North of England conference in Manchester.

The ambitious framework aims to double passenger numbers and support the construction of 75,000 new homes by 2050. Covering over 318km of track and 96 stations, the plan seeks to address longstanding issues such as overcrowded trains, unreliable services, and limited local influence over the network.

TfGM intends for the vision to deliver a rail system that is more accessible, dependable, and responsive to local needs, aligning with the Greater Manchester Strategy and the region’s £1 billion Good Growth Fund. Next week, Mayor Burnham will collaborate with industry leaders to develop a phased delivery plan, focusing on new services, station upgrades, and simplified fares.

From 7 December 2025, Greater Manchester will also become one of the first UK regions to roll out a simplified fare system, streamlining ticketing for passengers.

Mayor Burnham said:"Greater Manchester’s rail network is vital for our communities and economy but has long underperformed. This vision provides a once-in-a-generation chance to transform rail for our city-region. Simplifying fares is just the first step toward a fully integrated Bee Network, giving everyone better access to reliable, modern rail services."

The Rail Vision sets out plans for:

• New trains and stations, including Golborne and Cheadle

• Step-free access upgrades at 50% of stations by 2040

• Development of 75,000 homes near rail corridors

• A major redevelopment of Manchester Piccadilly, featuring a new underground station to increase capacity and add nearly one million square feet of commercial space

• Stronger integration between intercity, regional, local rail, Metrolink, and bus services through the Bee Network

Vernon Everitt, Greater Manchester’s Transport Commissioner, added:"We have already transformed local bus services under the Bee Network. Integrating rail is the next step, delivering immediate benefits for passengers while establishing a long-term blueprint for a world-class, fully integrated public transport system."

The Greater Manchester Rail Vision represents a landmark strategy aimed at meeting the city-region’s future transport needs, improving connectivity, and supporting sustainable growth over the next three decades.