Proposals for direct trains to London

Date published: 29 October 2009

Direct trains from Rochdale to London could become a reality if an independent transport company get their way.

Great North Western Trains is hoping to introduce a twice hourly service from Bradford to London Euston via Halifax, Todmorden, Rochdale, Manchester Victoria, Eccles, Newton-le-Willows and Winsford. The service could be up and running by 2013.

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen is giving the project his support claiming that it will have a “massive economic benefit for Rochdale".

“This is exciting news for our town and we will be giving Great Northern Trains our full support." he said.

"The last direct trains from Rochdale to London were poorly planned and scrapped five years ago when the West Coast Main Line was modernised. It only ran from Monday to Friday and I hope that any new service will run seven days a week.

"This new line will dramatically enhance our transport links.

"If this becomes a reality, it will see a massive boost for our railway station, already set to benefit from the impending arrival of the Metrolink.”

Councillor Peter Evans, Rochdale’s Transport Boss said: “I will be seeking urgent talks within the Council to do everything we can to support this venture. Anything that would improve our transport infrastructure would definitely be welcome. We will be setting up a meeting in the next few weeks to discuss how all the Councils affected can come together and do their bit to ensure that this ambitious plan becomes a reality.”