Plans to deliver a new £32m train station in Golborne have reached a milestone moment Wigan Council has given the green light to the planning application for the station and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) have appointed a local company to design it Greater Manchester has ambitious plans to bring eight commuter rail lines into the Bee Network by 2028 The new station – which will reconnect Golborne to the railway for the first time in more than 60 years – is part of the city-region’s wider plans to improve connectivity for communities as part of the first fully-integrated transport system outside London Planning approval follows hot on the heels of the government giving the go ahead to the station’s outline business case in January which set out the transformational benefits it will bring to the area as part of the Bee Network Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Wigan Council will now develop a full business case and detailed design in 2025 TfGM has appointed Golborne-based engineering firm Murphy to develop the final station designs work is expected to begin in 2026 with the first trains hoped to stop there in 2027 said: “This is a significant moment for Greater Manchester with the approval of the planning application for Golborne station bringing us closer to reconnecting Golborne to the railway network for the first time in more than 60 years “Local residents have campaigned tirelessly for the restoration of rail services to Golborne This approval is a victory for the community and a step towards realising our shared vision for better connectivity reducing carbon emissions and supporting economic growth “We are committed to moving forward at pace with this project and bringing rail into the Bee Network – making it easier to get around the city-region To have such a respected partner like Murphy on board to take the station through detailed design is a fantastic result and we can then move swiftly through to construction they understand how better connections will open up access to skilled jobs and opportunities across the city-region while making Golborne an even greater place to live and work.” so train services would reduce journey times into Manchester city centre by up to 30 minutes A public consultation in 2024 showed high levels of support for the station proposals and a planning application was submitted to Wigan Council in November The station includes plans for a new accessible two-platform rail station including step-free access throughout a new hourly service between Wigan and Manchester Victoria and onwards to Stalybridge and new walking and cycling links to the town centre said: “The Council has worked closely with Transport for Greater Manchester ensuring the new station will deliver the best for the local community and wider area and connect Golborne to the rail network for the first time in decades and supporting our local supply chain is a real priority for us and I am delighted that a local Golborne-based company has been appointed to deliver the next phase of this exciting project “The new Golborne station will make a real difference to people’s lives and our wider region and this announcement is another step forward in making it a reality.” Murphy will now take forward the proposals to deliver detailed designs which will support the station’s final business case Transportation Managing Director at Murphy said: “With offices in Stonecross and Golborne we were particularly delighted to be appointed the first phase of this project alongside our valued supply chain to greatly improve transport links in the local area for the benefit of the surrounding communities Murphy is focused on improving life by delivering world-class infrastructure and this project will do just that.” partners are looking at ways to improve the town and areas around the station through the Golborne town centre Masterplan This would make them even better places to live and visit with improved cycling and walking links and opportunities for further investment in Golborne The station would be delivered though locally devolved government funding MP for Leigh and Atherton, said: “The community in Golborne have been waiting a long time for this it’s fantastic to see Golborne station reach this next milestone XFASTINDEX Wigan Council has approved a planning application from Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) for a new railway station in Golborne Murphy has been appointed by TfGM to develop the design for the station to support the station’s final business case construction work is expected to begin in 2026 with the first trains hoped to stop there in 2027 The station includes plans for a new two-platform rail station with step-free access transportation managing director at Murphy we were particularly delighted to be appointed the first phase of this project alongside our valued supply chain including design partner WSP to greatly improve transport links in the local area for the benefit of the surrounding communities.” Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk 1 hour Ebbsfleet Development Corporation is undertaking early market engagement for infrastructure works. 17 hours Following a recent expansion into North America, Murphy Group has now entered Australia. 14 minutes Innovative tracked carrier manufacturer among 2025 King’s Award for Enterprise recipients 36 minutes Modular construction business Integra Buildings has received royal recognition for its approach to sustainability. 1 hour MTX Contracts has been selected as the preferred bidder to build a diagnostic centre in Pitsea, Essex. 1 hour House-builder Springfield Properties has promoted Darren Thomson to construction director for its north of Scotland operations. © 2025 The Construction Index [Company No ' + response[i].created_nice + ' ' + response[i].description + ' Plans for a new £32M train station in Golborne have moved forward after Wigan Council approved the planning application which will reconnect Golborne to the rail network for the first time in over 60 years forms part of Greater Manchester’s wider initiative to enhance public transport connectivity through the Bee Network Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed local engineering firm Murphy to deliver detailed designs with trains anticipated to start serving the station by 2027 The new station aims to cut journey times to Manchester city centre by up to 30 minutes by introducing an accessible two-platform station with step-free access and an hourly train service running between Wigan and Manchester Victoria The project follows the government’s approval of the station’s outline business case earlier this year signalling recognition of the station’s potential to bring transformational benefits to the area in conjunction with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and central government will now work on developing a full business case and detailed designs throughout 2025 Public consultation conducted in 2024 revealed strong local support for the station Plans also include improvements to the town centre car park and enhanced walking and cycling routes aligned with a broader Golborne town centre Masterplan aimed at making the area more attractive for residents and visitors alike The station’s funding will come from locally devolved government budgets fitting into Greater Manchester’s ambition to create the first fully integrated transport system outside London improving connectivity across the city region with eight new commuter rail lines planned by 2028 the partners are looking into ways to improve the town and areas around the station via the Golborne Masterplan Murphy transportation managing director Chris Clayton said: “With offices in Stonecross and Golborne Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “This is a significant moment for Greater Manchester Wigan Council leader David Molyneux said: “The Council has worked closely with Transport for Greater Manchester MP for Leigh and Atherton Jo Platt said: “The community in Golborne have been waiting a long time for this “This important transport infrastructure will bring better connectivity help to reduce congestion and support local economic growth Connectivity and growth across all of Leigh and Atherton is extremely important to me and I am excited to see the benefits this will bring to the town.” Like what you've read? To receive New Civil Engineer's daily and weekly newsletters click here. Enabling works on the Lower Thames Crossing scheme could begin in autumn… Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has started its search for the next… Network Rail and its supply chain carried out works across the country… Network Rail has announce suppliers on a £1.15bn framework for reactive and… Sign our campaign for a grant funding review The station will be constructed to the east of High Street with the land of two primary schools to the right of the trainline also being acquired The engineering and construction company has been appointed by Transport for Greater Manchester to lead the detailed design phase for a facility linking the Wigan town to the rail network for the first time in 60 years which has been delivering major infrastructure projects for 70 years with 300 sites in operation at any given time Headquartered in London, it has a regional office in Golborne itself. Murphy is currently replacing the Greek Street road bridge close to Stockport station in a key project for Network Rail and is also building a new station at Beaulieu Park on the Great Eastern Line Detailed plans will now be developed for the station’s design, with a target of starting construction in 2026 for a 2027 opening or tram services to Manchester since the 1960s Golborne station will provide two accessible step-free access platforms and welcome an hourly service between Wigan and Manchester Victoria The £32m Golborne station is one of the eight commuter rail lines earmarked by Transport for Greater Manchester to be connected to the Bee Network by 2028 said the appointment was a “significant development” and a “victory for the community” He added: “To have such a respected partner like Murphy on board to take the station through detailed design is a fantastic result “[Murphy] understand how better connection will open up access to skilled jobs and opportunities across the city region while making Golborne an even greater place to work and live.” said: “With offices at Stonecross and Golborne Murphy is focused on improving life by delivering world-class infrastructure Read our comments policy Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" The housing association is working with main contractor Caddick to build 69 social rent homes for over 55s and a GP surgery on 2.5 acres of disused land on Arrow Street in Broughton The exchange between developer Kellen Homes and partners Sigma Capital Group and First Choice Homes Oldham represents the completion of the 311-home Middleton scheme Register for free North West property intelligence Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value" Join more than 13,000 property professionals and sign up to receive your free daily round-up of built environment news direct to your inbox By subscribing, you are agreeing to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Щоб переглянути сайт, увімкніть JavaScript у своєму браузері Win HappyPremiumSearch Rayohits radiomanchesternewsNew £32m Golborne Station approvedDesigners are now working on final proposals Plans to reconnect Golborne to the railway network for the first time in more than six decades have moved forward following planning approval for a new £32 million station Wigan Council has approved the application for the two-platform facility and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed Golborne-based firm Murphy to develop the final designs with the first trains hoped to run by 2027 The station forms part of the Bee Network – Greater Manchester’s ambition to deliver an integrated transport system by 2028 Golborne lacks direct public transport links to Manchester The proposed service could cut journey times to the city centre by up to 30 minutes A new hourly train service is proposed between Wigan A public consultation in 2024 showed overwhelming local support and the government backed the outline business case in January the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Wigan Council are now preparing a full business case Mayor Andy Burnham called the move a "significant moment" and praised the local appointment while Wigan Council leader David Molyneux said the project would "make a real difference" to residents and the wider borough The station site lies near the former Golborne Station on the West Coast Main Line approximately five miles south of Wigan North Western wider regeneration plans are being developed under the Golborne town centre Masterplan First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app. Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited Company number: 1394141Registered office: Media House Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern London NW1 2PL All registered in England and Wales VAT no 918 5617 01H Bauer Publishing are authorised and regulated for credit broking by the FCA (Ref No: 845898) Greater Manchester’s first new station in a quarter of a century has taken an important step towards opening in 2027 with the submission of a planning application £32m Golborne station would address one of Greater Manchester’s public transport blackspots and reduce journey times from Wigan town into Manchester city centre by up to 30 minutes but it closed in the 1960s following the Beeching report with Wigan Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority has submitted a planning application for the project The new station would be located on the site of the old one The proposed site is on the West Coast Mainline As well as improving the experience of getting in and out of Golborne it is hoped the station could act as a catalyst for the regeneration of the town centre Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “It has taken a huge effort to get us to this point but we have finally reached a major milestone on the journey to reconnect Golborne to the rail network for the first time in over 60 years “The proposal is based on extremely sound evidence and huge progress has been made with a planning application being submitted and overwhelming support from local residents.” said: “Having advocated for the re-opening of Golborne station since first being in parliament in 2017 I’m pleased to see significant progress being made “The area has been without rail connectivity for over 60 years so I welcome the much-needed connectivity that this will bring to residents It will better connect the local community to jobs and is a major step towards making Golborne an even greater place to live and work.” To learn more search for reference number A/24/98015/MAJOR on Wigan Council’s planning portal WSP is the consultancy leading on the scheme But 3 times cheaper than Liverpool’s £100m for the proposed Liverpool Baltic station which is also being inserted onto an existing live track There is also a station planned in Cheadle as part of the town fund that already has planning permission. First new station in a quarter of a century Apart from the one in Cheadle that already has planning permission and is scheduled to open by the end of next year Maybe having a more modern design would be better – although I bet it would be pricier I think the engineering issues at Liverpool Baltic are far more complex than at the Golborne Station as some of that cost is for surface level roadworks and landscaping Have the train station up and running again will be a massive boost for Golborne my only concern will be the parking situation Obviously the core mission is to deliver access to the railway but this lacks any design quality what-so-ever Ground breaking architecture once again in Manchester The building is actually an existing good shed and not a new station building (people should research the info before commenting) That said the visualization work is awful No way i’d be standing on platform 1 when i train comes half the track is under the platform… Anonymous 12.55: TfGM are proposing an hourly Wigan-Stalybridge via Victoria to call at the new station a new fast connection from Victoria to Wigan would be useful beyond any benefit to Golborne but is this a TfGM/GMCA wishlist item or is there anything reasonably firm to suggest it would happen Otherwise is it another Build-it-and-they-will-come gamble GMCA haven’t quite got the out the message that with Stalybridge to Victoria electrified by TRU and Lostock-Wigan being electrified in 2025 we kind of get something like an electrified East-West S-Bahn through running Victoria could’ve got its rail connection to Kirkby and the Merseyrail network Burnham finally getting something more than just some new buses The first phase of the £10m modernisation plan to make the station more efficient has concluded with travellers set to return on Wednesday Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value" A planning application has been lodged with Wigan Council for a new railway station in Golborne which would mark the town’s reconnection to the rail network for the first time in over 60 years The proposed £32M station is part of a wider initiative aimed at enhancing public transport in Greater Manchester by integrating eight commuter lines into the Bee Network by 2028 The application for Golborne station outlines the development of an accessible two-platform station featuring step-free access lifts to both platforms and a footbridge over the tracks The proposed service would run hourly between Wigan and Manchester Victoria plans include improvements to a central car park and new walking and cycling links The introduction of the new train services is expected to cut journey times to the city centre by as much as 30 minutes significantly enhancing connectivity for local residents The absence of rail access has also been a noted concern for nearby Leigh which has been identified as the largest town in England without a train station which remains the most populous part of Greater Manchester disconnected from the rail system a public consultation on the proposed Golborne station drew nearly 3,000 responses with over 90% of participants expressing support for the project which has been designed collaboratively by Transport for Greater Manchester Wigan Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority with the station anticipated to open in 2027 The new station is expected to positively impact local regeneration efforts and support the Golborne & Lowton West Neighbourhood Plan Its location on the West Coast Main Line is also expected to facilitate access to Haydock Park Racecourse enhancing transportation options for event-goers and potentially reducing road traffic on busy race days This station development is to be funded through locally devolved government resources and additional proposals to revitalise Golborne including improved cycling and walking paths will form part of the Golborne town centre Masterplan This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and attract further investment in the area “This won’t just be transformative step for the local community This station is a key element in our plans to bring rail into the Bee Network and will help unlock economic growth by opening up access to skilled jobs and opportunities across the city-region “This plan for the first new station in Greater Manchester in more than 20 years will give more people the option to use public transport We’re thankful to the many residents who’ve had their say throughout this process and helped shaped these plans.” MP for Leigh and Atherton Jo Platt said: “Having advocated for the re-opening of Golborne station since first being in parliament in 2017 Plans for a new £32M train station in Golborne have moved forward… The proposed new Liverpool-Manchester railway would be the backbone of a major… Watercourses around motorways in Greater Manchester could be filled with hazardous materials… The combined authority is preparing a compulsory purchase order as a last resort to secure land for the development of Greater Manchester’s first new train station in 25 years Segments of land belonging to four residential properties and a commercial property are required to deliver the station off Railway Road A GMCA report suggests that discussions are “progressing well with affected landowners” Transport for Greater Manchester is aiming to secure all the land required for the scheme by reaching option agreements with the affected landowners with an acquiring authority proving they have done all that they can to acquire the land by negotiation the CPO paperwork will be prepared in parallel until the property interests are legally secured work is being done for the submission of a planning application and a tender for the design and build with funding received from the Transforming Cities Fund Further financial support has been secured from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement Lowton and Leigh constitute one of the largest regions in Greater Manchester without a railway station residents face an hour-long trip to reach Manchester city centre The rail enhancements would cut trip times from the Wigan town by half with 93% of 3,000 public consultees in favour of the development A Transport for Greater Manchester spokesperson said: “We are working with Wigan Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority to deliver a new rail station in Golborne which will provide a key public transport link for people in the town and the broader borough of Wigan which would be the first to be built in Greater Manchester in more than 20 years and wider transport improvements in the town as part of the Bee Network we’re in negotiations with a small number of landowners who we may need to acquire some land from temporarily or permanently Manchester’s city region has not built a train station for more than 20 years Mayor Burnham seems inordinately keen on this But it’s not clear what the services using the new station would be or how much use they would be to Lowton residents What services are actually intended to call there and might this not just mean taking away a service from Bolton Lets hope they include a free park and ride car park to get some of the traffic away from Lowton The fact that we haven’t had a new station of how desperately neglected everywhere outside the South East is Can you imagine how long it is since some cities had a new station if it is 25 years since Greater Manchester had one The borough claims it has a “disproportionately high number of HMOs” and is to pursuing the introduction of measures to wrestle back control A planning application by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) for a new £32 million railway station in Golborne has been submitted to Wigan Council This proposed station would mark the town's reconnection to the rail network for the first time in over six decades which is part of a broader plan to integrate eight commuter lines into the city’s Bee Network by 2028 aims to transform connectivity and stimulate economic growth in Golborne and the surrounding areas Golborne was cut adrift of the rail network during the Beeching cuts in the 1960’s the station would offer hourly services between Wigan and Manchester Victoria reducing journey times into the city centre by up to 30 minutes It would also provide a vital link for the nearby town of Leigh currently one of the largest towns in the country without a rail station The proposed station if approved will be built on the site of the original rail station plans include an improved town centre car park and new walking and cycling links Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “It has taken a huge effort to get us to this point “The proposal is based on extremely sound evidence and huge progress has been made with a planning application being submitted and overwhelming support from local residents.” “This won’t just be transformative step for the local community “This plan for the first new station in Greater Manchester in more than 20 years will give more people the option to use public transport We’re thankful to the many residents who’ve had their say throughout this process and helped shaped these plans.” Local residents and stakeholders have overwhelmingly supported the project with over 90% of respondents expressing their approval during public consultation construction is expected to commence in 2026 said: “Having advocated for the re-opening of Golborne station since first being in parliament in 2017 I’m pleased to see significant progress being made “The area has been without rail connectivity for over 60 years and is a major step towards making Golborne an even greater place to live and work Mayor Burnham has been keen to expand the Bee Network since its inception earlier this year TfGM announced it was looking into integrating routes to Rochdale RAIL Briefing brings you the most important stories analysis of the biggest issues and critical scrutiny from leading industry experts which will put you at the heart of a successful British railway Registering and logging into the site also gives you access to gated content on the RAIL website RAIL is Britain's market leading modern railway magazine Regulation has been in place since 2014 and has been branded "absurd" Ryde Pier had been closed to trains since September 2024 Signal fault in north London could not be fixed in time for earmarked date Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome Plans have been submitted for the first new train station in the Wigan area for 60 years Proposals for the construction of a two-platform station at Golborne have appeared on the council’s planning portal Play area provision in the field south of St Thomas Church of England Primary School is also part of the plan The station will be on the West Coast Main Line five miles south of the Wigan North Western station and a mile north of Golborne Junction – near to the site of the previous Golborne station which closed in the 1960s It will provide access to services running between Wigan and Staylybridge via Manchester Victoria “It will significantly reduce the typical current journey time of over an hour for local residents to get into central Manchester,” a design and access statement says “As well as improving accessibility to employment and educational and leisure opportunities and reducing journey times into Manchester the development has been designed to be complimentary with the Golborne Masterplan.” The masterplan is a programme of wider public realm improvements designed by Wigan Council to promote the regeneration of Golborne town centre and to support new development in the area around the station Plans are for he construction of a ‘non-staffed’ station with two platforms and a new ‘access for all’ footbridge connecting an entrance and a car-park on the west of the tracks Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said “This will be massive for Golborne It will give the village a new lease of life It’s an area where people struggle to access public transport.” with the new station scheduled to open in 2027 Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date with all the latest developments Find out all the latest news and events right here Watch our videos for latest news and updates The planning application for a new £32m station in Golborne – which would connect the town to the rail network for the first time in more than 60 years – has been submitted to Wigan Council. The Golborne station scheme forms part of a significant investment that would support Greater Manchester’s ambitions to bring eight commuter lines into Bee Network by 2028 helping to create a fully integrated London-style public transport system This latest milestone outlines Greater Manchester’s plans to transform connectivity opening access to jobs and opportunities for people in the town and wider borough through the Bee Network.Golborne currently has no direct bus so train services would reduce journey times into Manchester city centre by up to 30 minutes.Nearby Leigh is the biggest town in England without a rail station while the wider area – including Lowton – is the largest and most populous area in Greater Manchester not connected to the rail network The application includes plans for a new accessible two-platform rail station including step-free access throughout with a footbridge across the tracks and lifts to both platforms; a new hourly service between Wigan and Manchester Victoria and onwards to Stalybridge; an improved town centre car park; and new walking and cycling links to the town centre Earlier this year nearly 3,000 people had their say on the station proposals which have been developed by Transport for Greater Manchester Wigan Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority with over 90% of respondents supporting the plans Enjoying this article? Sign up for our FREE newsletter!If the plans are approved work on site should begin in 2026 with the new station scheduled to open in 2027 – improving access to travel work and leisure opportunities in the city-region Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “It has taken a huge effort to get us to this point but we have finally reached a major milestone on the journey to reconnect Golborne to the rail network for the first time in over 60 years.“The proposal is based on extremely sound evidence and huge progress has been made with a planning application being submitted and overwhelming support from local residents.” We’re thankful to the many residents who’ve had their say throughout this process and helped shaped these plans.”Feedback on the proposals for the station which would be on the West Coast Main Line will help shape the final designs and plans for the car park electric vehicle charging and active travel links The proposed station supports the regeneration ambitions for the town and the emerging Golborne & Lowton West Neighbourhood Plan It would also be less than 2km from Haydock Park Racecourse providing important support to Raceday events reducing the numbers of cars on the roads and delivering more travel options to the venue The Golborne Band spearheaded what was to be a highly successful weekend for the North West region with a fine Third Section victory on Saturday afternoon By the time two long contesting days had concluded late on Sunday night 8 of the 11 Area representatives had claimed a top-six finish They were led proudly by the band from just outside Wigan Golborne has risen more than once from dormancy to be a regular and respected competitor on the regional circuit of contests More recently they have also enjoyed success under several conductors winning the Butlins Fourth Section title in 2022 since the arrival of the experienced Les Webb further progress has been made The band won the Fourth Section Area title in 2023 and just missed out on a top-six finish at the National Final they gained Cheltenham qualification in Blackpool in February whilst boosted by the recent arrival of several new signings they have now claimed a first ever National title With the imposing challenge of the Second Section to contemplate in 2025 they will be hoping to continue their climb up through the sections and offering their congratulations to fellow competitors on their Facebook page Golborne were pushed hard for their victory by podium finishers whom adjudicator Sandy Smith later told 4BR had also "really captured the character of the music" They came from excellent accounts from Flookburgh and Croy in second and third with the remaining top-six places taken by strongly defined renditions from Clifton & Lightcliffe Peter Yorke's test-piece may have painted a miniature picture of a 1960s maritime industry that now exists only on newsreel films and in history books but it was still one that held modern contesting relevance in enabling the best bands to display a command of musicality It was a delight to hear four movements of well-defined style and character rather than tick box endorsements of basic performance requirements That was certainly noted in the pre-results remarks of Sandy Smith (joined by John Maines and Nicholas Garman) who spoke of the most successful bands being able to The best he said played with a sense of musical poise; from the emerging structures of the opening 'Web of Steel' and the noble 'Launch' to the industrious jazz inflections of 'Hands at Work' and majestic 'Maiden Voyage' to set sail for home later in the day as the new National Champion "A performance capturing the character of this music so well Directed with aplomb by an understanding MD" John Maines (who played with a ship building band in Cammel Lairds as a teenager) added that their account had built throughout "to a fine ending" whilst Nicholas Garman added: "I really enjoyed your interpretation." It certainly had to be good to beat the excellent early marker of the 20-band field from the North of England challengers Flookburgh Led with subtle authority by the vastly experienced John Iveson it caught the ears in the box with its richly characterised contrasts but sonorous account from Morecambe conducted by Billy Porter which eventually ended fifth There was delight for Croy Silver in third place as they pushed their way into the title reckoning with a performance of solid structuring and industrious endeavour led by Kenneth Blackwood — none more so than their amazing one-woman percussion deck hand A vastly experienced 'sea dog' (in the best way possible) also ensured that his band was always going to be in the judges' mind as John Clay once again tempered the style with definition to lead Clifton & Lightcliffe into fourth place Their super euphonium player Adrian Harrison claimed a well-deserved 'Best Soloist' award for his outstanding all-round contribution on a day when there was a deck full of impressive contenders in every band It also enabled the Yorkshire band to finish ahead of Nailsworth Silver in sixth Just a few little clips nicked the polish of a fine judged account by Anri Adachi's ensemble but it was further evidence of the solid progress made since they won the Fourth Section National title in 2021 The choice of test-piece by the Kapitol Music Panel (of which Sandy and John were part) ensured that MDs could confidently reveal the more aesthetic aspects of their contest day performance without losing control of the essential foundation blocks of good intonation and ensemble precision What was also noticeable was the quality of the percussion playing which although not extensive (many bands had just one expert multi-tasking player whilst others had more — with Barnsley fielding five to ensure all their players could enjoy the 'National' experience) certainly added greatly to the colour and texture of the music a whole host of bands gave thoughtfully constructed evocative renditions that on another day may have just pushed into the top-six whilst Towcester Studio found a great deal of favour in the hall (gaining the 'kiss of death' as a potential winner from 4BR) The top-10 was completed by well-directed accounts from Barnsley Metropolitan and Spennymoor Town whilst just behind there was little to choose between Verwood Town in eleventh down to Wellington (Telford) in seventeenth as well as the hard working trio Eccleston some will still have left a little more puzzled than others with their final placing (Perthshire perhaps more than most) each provided the judges with performances that although pockmarked with minor unease and error all captured the essence of maritime industry and elegance as their well-constructed ships emerged from the steel girder opening bars to the sleek elegance of the final sea journey A performance capturing the character of this music so well. Directed with aplomb by an understanding MDWritten remarks of Sandy Smith on Golborne's performance Denis Wick Test piece: The Shipbuilders (Peter Yorke)Adjudicators: Sandy Smith Best Soloist: Adrian Harrison (euphonium) — Clifton & Lightcliffe 4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month May 6 • The music making will go on long into the night in Stavanger on Friday with a special Midnight Brass treat from Manger Musikklag May 6 • Whitworth Vale & Healey capture the essence of victory as there are also wins for Delph Dobcross Silver and St John's Mossley in Buxton May 6 • Join presenter Martin Upfold for more great brass band music over the airwaves with this VE Day celebration special May 5 • 60 bands will look to take one step closer to the British Open this weekend in Blackpool Saturday 10 May • Winter Gardens Complex May 5 • Ocean Brass are inviting applications for our Principal Cornet position as we prepare for an exciting schedule of concerts and contests in the second section through 2025 and beyond May 4 • Following a successful start to our 2025 contest season Rode Hall Band are looking for a good FRONT ROW CORNET player to join this enthusiastic friendly and progressive 3rd section band based on the Cheshire/Staffordshire border Rode Hall Band are looking for a good SOPRANO CORNET player to join this enthusiastic Deputy Travel EditorPublished: Invalid Date A SMALL town outside Manchester is getting its first train station in 60 years The town of Golborne last welcomed trains in the 1960s The town has no direct bus or tram services to Manchester either The new project would see the station have new links to Manchester The £32million station hopes to start works by 2026 a new footbridge and car park along with walking and cycling routes to town are part of the designs Journey times would be fast by around 30 minutes and would connect the nearby town of Leigh - the largest town in the UK without a station Manchester's mayor Andy Burnham said: "It has taken a huge effort to get us to this point, but we have finally reached a major milestone on the journey to reconnect Golborne to the rail network for the first time in over 60 years. "The proposal is based on extremely sound evidence and huge progress has been made with a planning application being submitted and overwhelming support from local residents." added that they have been campaigning to reopen Golborne Station since 2017 They said: "The area has been without rail connectivity for over 60 years "It will better connect the local community to jobs and is a major step towards making Golborne an even greater place to live and work." Golborne was once a mining and textile manufacturing town although these have declined in recent years There are a number of new train stations opening across the UK Wixams Train Station hopes to open by 2026 and could connect people to the new Universal Studios theme park hoping to open in Bedford The £57million station was first planned 20 years ago I took the scenic train back to Geneva Airport The snow-covered mountains and tiny alpine villages that we passed were so beautiful that it felt like a moving picture was playing beyond the glass." - Caroline McGuire "Nothing quite beats the Shinkansen bullet train It hardly feels like you're whizzing along at speed until you look outside and see the trees a green blur Make sure to book seat D or E too - as you'll have the best view of Mount Fuji along the way." Kara Godfrey "Those who have never travelled on the Eurostar may wonder what’s so special about a seemingly ordinary train that takes you across the channel You won’t have to waste a moment and can tick off all the top attractions from the Louvre to the Champs-Élysées which are both less than five kilometres from the Gare du Nord." - Sophie Swietochowski "From mountain landscapes and serene lochs to the wistful moors I spent my three-hour journey from Glasgow to Fort William gazing out the window Sit on the left-hand side of the train for the best views overlooking Loch Lomond." - Hope Brotherton "The Trans-Mongolian Express is truly a train journey like no other It starts amid the chaos of central Beijing before the city's high-rises give way to crumbling ancient villages and eventually the vast vacant plains of Mongolia The deep orange sunset seen in the middle of the desert is among the best I've witnessed anywhere." - Ryan Gray Darlington Train Station has revealed plans for a £140million renovation And here's what to expect from London Liverpool Street's £1.5billion plans. Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/ Register  Login The Canteen is being led by ex-River Café chef Jessica Filbey The team behind the Pelican in London’s Notting Hill and the Hero in London’s Maida Vale has launched a new Italian-inspired restaurant Canteen is located on the corner of London’s Golborne and Portobello Road and offers an informal menu featuring a selection of fresh pasta and daily-changing larger plates The kitchen is being led by ex-River Café chef Jessica Filbey while Max Haughton leads on the day-to-day operations Dishes include tomato pappardelle with pecorino; cavolo nero risotto; mortadella pizzette ricotta and lemon; and cherry frangipane tart We’ll be opening a pub (the Fat Badger) upstairs soon but the ground floor (once Pizza East) has always been loved and her style of cooking is perfect for the space We’re excited to support her in this new venture.” Canteen offers walk-in only and is currently open for lunch between 12 and 4pm with plans to open for dinner service soon James Gummer, Phil Winser and Richard Squire launched the Pelican gastropub in Notting Hill in 2022, which was followed by the opening of the much lauded Bull in Charlbury last year, as well as the Hero in Maida Vale earlier this year Sign Up Jacobs Media is a company registered in England and Wales Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has agreed a plan to take over eight commuter train lines by 2028 as part of a joined-up ‘London-style’ public transport system Developed in partnership with the rail industry Department for Transport (DfT) and Shadow Great British Rail the plan involves integrated ticketing and capped fares between Bee Network buses Burnham has been highly critical of the performance of the train operating companies and described the rail system as a “brake on growth” of the city region and said Greater Manchester needs “a railway that is reliable and fully integrated with the rest of the Bee Network to drive growth and deliver new homes with public transport connections on the doorstep.” In total 64 stations will be brought into the Bee Network in three phases the first two lines – connecting Manchester to Glossop and Stalybridge – will join by December 2026 A further 32 stations and all lines within Greater Manchester would join by 2030 The approach is expected to boost the number of trips by train by 1.3 million each year with more people choosing public transport and more services running later and at the weekend Commuters travelling from Glossop could tap in on the train and then use all buses or trams in Greater Manchester The plan will also give powers to build an initial 750 new homes close to rail stations by 2028 Burnham’s old parliamentary constituency of Leigh will also be getting a new station at Golborne after the government approved an outline business case The £32 million station will reconnect Golborne to the railway for the first time in more than 60 years With the Department for Transport green light GMCA and Wigan Council can now develop a full business case and detailed design this year Golborne will be served by hourly trains between Wigan resulting in reduced travel times to Manchester city centre by up to 30 minutes The station will support the town’s regeneration ambitions Lou Cordwell and Cllr Martyn Cox setting out the case for an integrated public transport system said: “Our rail system today is acting as a brake on growth and We need a railway that is reliable and fully integrated with the rest of the Bee Network to drive growth and deliver new homes with public transport connections on the doorstep “Building on the success of bringing our buses back under local control we’re planning a phased approach to bringing eight commuter lines and their stations into the Bee Network It will start with lines between the city centre and Glossop and Stalybridge and then expand each year between now and 2028 “Our plan puts passengers first by delivering a simplified Only by making travel by train more reliable will we convince more people to leave the car at home and make the switch to the Bee Network “Delivering change on the railways is notoriously complex but our phased plan has been drawn up with and has the backing of the rail industry We’ll continue to work with government – as Great British Rail is established – to support them on the national reform of the railways enacting the rail powers outlined in the English Devolution White Paper and supporting the Government’s agenda.”