Transport for the North has welcomed news that what it describes as a “key section of the North West’s rail network” will be electrified.

It follows the Government’s announcement of a £78 million plan to erect wires over the 13 miles between Lostock Junction and Wigan North Western. The scheme also includes the lengthening of platforms (RAIL 939).

Describing the announcement as “great news”, TfN Chief Executive Martin Tugwell added: “It may be just one piece in a bigger jigsaw, but it will support sustainable rail in this area of the North West for many years to come.”

The ‘infill’ project brings the prospect of journey time savings, lower operating costs, and carbon savings.

“We have already made clear that the need to decarbonise our surface transport network is vital in helping to tackle the climate emergency,” said Tugwell.

“This is a step towards that. But there remains a huge amount of work to be done - including commitment to projects such as Northern Powerhouse Rail and HS2.”

Read more in RAIL 940