Transforming Rail in the North
The Ordsall Chord project is at the heart of Network Rail’s £1bn+ Northern Powerhouse to improve travel in the north.
It is the biggest transport project in the north of England for decades and sees the construction of a new rail viaduct which will, for the first time in history, provide a direct link between Manchester’s three mainline stations (Piccadilly, Oxford Road and Victoria). The project spans the boundary between Manchester and Salford, passing through the area of the first passenger railway station in the world, on Liverpool Road. The urban areas are being redeveloped, creating open and attractive spaces for the public to enjoy.
It will improve connectivity across towns and cities and create new direct links to Manchester Airport. It will facilitate a step change in the level of train services operating on the network, and corresponding increase in capacity for passengers. In essence, it will provide faster and more frequent train services.
Once in a lifetime opportunity
The aim of connecting Manchester’s main stations via heavy rail has existed for over a century. Many options were considered but the Ordsall Chord was identified as the optimum balance between affordability and environmental impact. The solution was tested and validated as part of a rigorous TWA process, with the order being made. The project provides vital extra capacity for train operators and customers. It will boost the local economy by approximately £4bn and create over 20,000 new jobs.