The Stalybridge to Huddersfield line Rail Users’ Group (SHRUG) welcomes the announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer that the Manchester to Leeds Rail line is to be electrified. It will speed up journeys between these great northern cities and will boost both cities economically. It will assist businesses in these times of constraints and help to counter the north/south divide in a small way.
SHRUG expects that electrification will enable a 30 minute stopping service for all stations between Huddersfield and Manchester, later trains and better connections from Manchester, Stalybridge and Huddersfield.
To maximise the effect of the electrification SHRUG looks to the re-opening of the currently disused second bore tunnels between Diggle and Marsden. Currently there is a need to close the line for several weekends annually. This is to carry out safety work in the tunnels. When such work is carried the second tunnels could be used thus preventing closures.
The re-opening of the second tunnels would also form a passing point for the Express trains over the slower locals; so crucial on a line where timetabling is so tight. Additionally it would give a much greater chance that Diggle station is re-opened which is another of SHRUG’s aims.
Lastly SHRUG says, whilst the electrification of the line will greatly benefit the economy of both the Manchester and Leeds City regions, businesses also need workers and customers from the local intermediate stations. These people should not be forgotten at the expense of the needs of big cities. Passengers from local stations are an essential part of economic prosperity.
I am really disappointed actually. Having spent more than 10 years either using Mossley or Greenfield stations, I for one can say this is only masking a more serious issue. The rolling stock we have on this line is of some of the poorest quality and as a result, we have to put up with it. There is no alternative. With the electrification, how long before investment appears for the rolling stock .. how poor quality will this be?
We still have no disabled exit access from either station. As a dad of 3, it is unsafe for me to try and leave Greenfield station – how do I manipulate a pram with 2 children and associated baggage.
I appreciate it is some kind of a step forward, however, I wish it had been AFTER the other ongoing issues had been fixed.
It is good news to hear about the electrification of the line. Stuart does make a good point about access and the rolling stock. I would like to see an half hourly services at Greenfield. I have heard others raise such concerns, the Traffic and Transport Committee and SHRUG are aware of the issues. I am sure SHRUG would support the comments made by Stuart.