Wythenshawe campaigners’ 20-year fight to secure a railway station in Baguely could be coming to end – but they have renewed calls for commuters to keep them on track.
Currently, the largest town in Europe without a railway station, the Department for Transport have recently opened consultation with Stakeholders along the Mid-Cheshire line for suggestions about improving the service.
And despite the new Metrolink station launching in November a year ahead of schedule, campaigners believe that a rail station will really allow youths in the town to stay connected.
Eugene Ring, who leads the Wythenshawe Station Campaign, said: “What really motivates me and my committee is getting young people connected.
“Teenagers who don’t have their own cars or method of transport are severely disadvantaged compared to those in other surrounding areas, such as Altrincham,” he said.
“The railway station in Baguley would just complete it all and help people to commute and get around to surrounding areas so much quicker, we have 50,000 people coming into Wythenshawe every day.
“On the committee forum you can count the number of people who are against the plan on one hand, it really is a no-brainer, everyone is behind it.”
Wythenshawe residents were promised a railway stop in 1995 following a public enquiry but since then calls for a station have been rejected by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) bosses who argue that it would not be financially viable.
The decision has left campaigners baffled after a petition to introduce a stop secured 1,500 signatures.
A DfT spokesperson said: “We are investing record amounts in building a world-class rail network. This means more seats, improved connections and better journeys for millions of passengers.
“To make sure we make the most of this investment, it is vital we hear the views of the people who use these services.
“As part of our consultation into the Northern and Transpennine Express franchises, we are seeking views on all aspects of the franchises.”
There is already a regular commuter service on the Mid-Cheshire Line (MCL) which runs from Chester, Altrincham, Stockport and Manchester – but does not stop at Wythenshawe because there is no station.
Mr Ring is hoping that his campaign can change all that and have two trains per hour at Baguley – and can even boast some famous backing singing the same tune.
“We have had so much great support, The Smiths legend Johnny Marr has been right behind it all, he has become a patron,” he added.
“Not only Johnny but people like the late Lord Alf Morris and Sir Howard Bernstein, patrons like these can do so much in terms of driving the campaign forward.”
“It’s been a hell of a battle, all of the people in charge of making the final decision can see our situation, It is better to do it sooner rather than later.
“The railway station itself can help to end this social and economic isolation.”
The deadline for members of the public to sign the petition by getting in touch with Eugene Ring at [email protected] or email the Department for Transport at [email protected] is Monday August 18 when the consultation ends.
Image courtesy of Ingy The Wingy with thanks
