The railway between Wigan and Bolton has officially been electrified, with electric services now running along the 6.5-mile route following the completion of a GBP 100 million upgrade.
Overhead power lines were commissioned into service on Saturday 26 July, marking the final stage of the multi-year scheme delivered by Network Rail on behalf of the Department for Transport. Final works included platform extensions, updated train driver signage, and the removal of barriers at several stations.
With the infrastructure now live, cleaner, quieter electric trains can operate along the line, offering improved air quality for local communities and setting the groundwork for more frequent and reliable services.
“This newly electrified railway line entering into service is a proud moment after years of work to modify bridges, level crossings and stations,” said Kathryn Berry, scheme project manager at Network Rail. “Thanks to our supply chain, train operators, and local neighbours for their patience. The benefits of quieter, more reliable journeys will now be felt along the whole route.”
Since work began in 2022, the project has delivered:
- 21 kilometres of overhead power lines
- 414 new electrification stanchions
- Reconstruction of six road bridges and one footbridge
- Modifications to 17 bridges and two level crossings
- Upgrades to signalling and track infrastructure
- Platform extensions at Hindley, Westhoughton, and Ince stations
The GBP 100m investment is part of the Department for Transport’s broader Manchester and North West Transformation Programme (MNTP), designed to modernise infrastructure across the region. It also aligns with upgrades to the nearby Wigan Springs Branch depot, further improving operational flexibility for train operators.
Craig Harrop, Northern’s regional director, welcomed the project’s completion, stating: “The electrification of the line between Wigan and Bolton is great news for our customers and the communities we serve. This investment will support faster, more reliable and more sustainable journeys in the future, helping us deliver a better, greener railway for the North.”
Electrification of the Wigan–Lostock route was first announced in September 2021. Now delivered, it enables longer trains with more carriages to run in future, offering greater capacity and enhanced connectivity for passengers across the North West.
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