Tram-train vision for underused Greater Manchester railway line unveiled

The vision forms part of a long-term strategy for Greater Manchester's future transport system

A vision for new tram-trains connecting thousands of residents Stockport, Tameside and Manchester could soon be run a disused railway line.

For years the railway line through Denton has gone underused, only offering a ‘ghost train’ service. But exciting new plans could see Metrolink trams rattling along the lonely train tracks.

Currently Denton and Reddish South train stations see two trains weekly, coming through every Saturday – one to Stalybridge, the other to Stockport. This is a minimum service simply to keep the line open.

The line is strategically important to the wider rail network, providing options for freight trains as well as an alternative route in case of a blockage between Stockport and Manchester.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has now devised a further purpose for the line – to run tram-trains. Tram-train technology would see services run on both tram and train tracks.

This scheme, if signed off by transport bosses, would see the tram-trains run beyond Stockport town centre, along the Denton rail line, connecting the area firmly into the wider Metrolink network.

This vision would include links to Ashton-under-lyne and Manchester Airport. If the idea were brought to life, it could connect thousands more residents to the Bee Network.

TfGM is already working with Stockport council to develop a business case for bringing trams to Stockport, exploring a ‘core’ extension from the existing Metrolink stop at East Didsbury to Stockport town centre. As part of the work on the business case strategy, TfGM is also considering how this may unlock future extensions, such as tram-trains through Denton.

The line that runs through Denton features in TfGM’s 2040 strategy for tram-trains, with the original plan to connect Stockport to Oldham and then onto Victoria. But this idea of linking the disused train line to the Stockport tram service business case is the first sign of progress on the scheme to date.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said: “We’ve a bold plan to deliver a decade of good growth for Greater Manchester, one that benefits every part of the city region. Developing the Bee Network and delivering better bus, tram and train connections will be fundamental to our growth story.

“For too long, Denton has been overlooked and by working up the tram-train option to connect Denton and the wider area to the Metrolink is a big step toward unlocking opportunities for local residents and businesses.

“We’re committed to extending Metrolink to Stockport and beyond as part of our efforts to connect all our districts to the tram network and delivering a truly integrated transport network for everyone.”

Significant progress has already been made on the first stage of the Stockport Metrolink extension business case. TfGM is working hard to complete the required technical work this year, ahead of submission to the Department for Transport in early 2026.

Construction of the ‘core’ scheme between East Didsbury and Stockport could begin by the end of the decade, subject to approvals and funding.

Andrew Gwynne, MP for Gorton & Denton, said: “For years I’ve campaigned, alongside the local community, for improved transport links to Denton and across the constituency. I’m delighted that as part of the Metrolink extension plans, TfGM are looking seriously at using the rail line as an option for tram-train services.

“Improved connectivity is key to opening up opportunities for our people and communities, and supporting the growth ambitions across the city region.

“I’ve long campaigned for better transport links for Denton, and I’m delighted TfGM is looking seriously at this rail line as part of the Metrolink extension plans. This could be transformative for our community, improving connectivity and supporting growth across the area.”