Network Rail is advising passengers of the upcoming temporary closure of Ince station, Wigan, as engineers electrify the line.
More than £100m is being invested to install overhead line equipment carrying 25,000 volts of electricity over the railway, and improve signalling between Wigan North Western station and Lostock Junction in Bolton.
This project will ensure the track is ready for Northern’s longer, electric trains when they are introduced along the route.
At Ince station, the pedestrian footbridge into the station will be replaced and the platforms extended so they are long enough for Northern’s trains to open all their doors. Ince Green Lane road bridge will also be replaced, creating enough room for the overhead wires to safely sit beneath.
The work requires Ince station to be temporarily closed from 2 June until November 2024. From 22 April 2024, Ince Green Lane road bridge will be closed as Network Rail prepares for the bridge’s reconstruction.
Phil James, Network Rail’s North West route director said: “I’m grateful to the people of Ince for their cooperation as we rebuild Ince Green Lane bridge and upgrade Ince station as part of the electrification of the line.
“The work will allow for smoother, greener journeys as Northern’s electrified trains will be able to use the new infrastructure for years to come.”
During the closure, trains will continue to run on both the Atherton and Westhoughton routes between Wigan and Manchester but they will not stop at Ince.
Craig Harrop, regional director for Northern in the North West, said: “Whilst there will be short term disruption, this work by Network Rail represents a major investment in the railway infrastructure that will benefit future rail services from Ince. We thank customers for their patience while the work is carried out.”
A diversionary route will be in place for motorists throughout the bridge closure.
Network Rail and Northern are working with Transport for Greater Manchester to promote the frequent local bus services for passengers travelling to and from Ince. For information on buses, passengers are advised to visit www.beenetwork.com.
From July 2024, a temporary walkway over the road bridge will be in place for pedestrians. Prior to this, pedestrians will be able to use Ince Green Lane bridge. The temporary walkway will be kept open as much as possible, however, during some of the work it will be closed to keep the community safe.
To make way for the electrified overhead lines, Network Rail is overhauling 17 structures along the route.
While work like this is carefully planned to cause the least possible disruption to rail passengers, a railway closure will also be needed in September.
During that time, replacement buses along the route will keep people on the move between Wigan North Western, Westhoughton, Daisy Hill, Hindley and Lostock.
People planning rail travel between Wigan and Bolton are being advised to check www.nationalrail.co.uk in advance and to allow extra time for their journeys.
