Wigan MP 'gobsmacked' by plans to axe direct train service to Manchester Piccadilly

In a letter to Grant Schapps, Wigan's Labour representative said she was "gobsmacked" to be told of the plans for the route, which she described as "absolutely central to our community".

She said it was the second time that she has had to fight to keep the rail link, following proposals to axe it in 2015.

Ms Nandy wrote: "I should not have to remind you that just over a year ago the Prime Minister was elected on a commitment to level up constituencies in the north of England.

"Now, we face losing the direct link to Manchester Piccadilly and the direct link to Manchester Airport. Unlike many areas of Greater Manchester, we have unreliable, infrequent bus services, no connection at all to the Metrolink and we have consistently been passed over for investment. Now we are threatened, yet again, with the loss of a vital direct rail link."

She stated there were also proposals to divert an hourly fast train from Cumbria to Manchester Airport, which currently goes via Wigan, to Bolton instead.

Ms Nandy wrote: "You may or may not be aware that the case for a station at Golborne, which campaigners in the neighbouring constituency of Leigh have long fought for, rests on this service. Can you confirm that you are proposing not only to break your promises to the people of Wigan, but to the people of Leigh as well?"

Ms Nandy urged Mr Shapps to drop what she called a "sham consultation" and said it was "insulting" that the proposals had been announced during the coornavirus pandemic.

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