Major transportation entities unveil pivotal plan for Manchester's rejuvenation
In a significant move, Network Rail and Transport for Greater Manchester have joined forces to create a new partnership aimed at transforming several major stations in the urban core of Manchester. This partnership is part of a shared vision to make each station a destination, as part of a wider placemaking strategy for the High Speed 2 (HS2) project.
The current proposals for the HS2 station at Manchester Piccadilly suggest a six-platform surface station, with an estimated cost of around £7bn. However, Manchester's mayor, Andy Burnham, has called for a more expensive £12bn underground station for the HS2 station.
This partnership, described as a 'landmark moment' by Network Rail group property director, Robin Dobson, aims to bring land, infrastructure, and investment together for commercial developments and housing. It also seeks to provide a positive impact for the region, delivering homes, workspace, leisure, and community benefits over the coming decade.
The schemes will include proposals at Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria, Manchester Oxford Road, Deansgate, Salford Central, and Salford Crescent. The key organizations involved in planning and realizing the HS2 station in Manchester include the UK Department for Transport (DfT), HS2 Ltd, construction companies authorized to begin work, infrastructure and engineering consulting firms (such as Atkins), and railway regulatory and research bodies like RSSB. The project also connects with existing rail infrastructure managed by Network Rail.
The partnership will work with HS2, local authorities, private investors, and developers on new schemes, including station upgrades and new public realm. Prioritizing net zero and improving accessibility are part of the shared goals. The partnership also aims to create an integrated transport system to reduce reliance on cars.
The Northern Powerhouse Partnership and London mayor Sadiq Khan, along with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, have backed the idea of a more expensive underground station for the HS2 station. Manchester, the fastest growing metropolitan area in the UK, with a population expected to reach three million in the next decade, is in discussions with the government this year over building the city's HS2 station.
However, it's important to note that no new facts about Oldham or Salford were mentioned in the current paragraph. The partnership between Network Rail and Transport for Greater Manchester is working on a plan for five shared goals, which also include maximizing development around stations.
This partnership is a step towards Manchester's ambition to become a leading global city-region, providing opportunities for economic growth and improving the quality of life for its residents.
