Network Rail and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at accelerating the delivery of regeneration and development activity across six major stations.

The agreement, the first of its kind between the two organisations, is a major step forward in bringing together both land and infrastructure to create a better-connected Greater Manchester. 

The partnership aims to deliver additional investment and regeneration to the surrounding station neighbourhoods through new homes, workspace and public realm.

Network Rail and TfGM will work with key stakeholders and future partners on proposals across six stations - Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria, Manchester Oxford Road, Deansgate, Salford Central and Salford Crescent.

Network Rail owns more than 90 stations in Greater Manchester and in excess of 5.6 million journeys are made across TfGM’s transport network each day. 

The partnership will focus on transport upgrades, support regeneration to meet the demands of future population growth and further support the regional economy.

It will deliver improvements to stations and operations by unlocking commercial development opportunities and enhancing the customer experience to transport destinations, whilst driving economic benefits to local communities.

The partnership will work closely with the local authorities, HS2, private sector investors and property companies to make the most of joint landholdings.

Robin Dobson, group property director at Network Rail, said: “This is a landmark moment for Manchester and Salford. The partnership will leverage our combined resources and skills to unlock commercial regeneration opportunities surrounding stations and support infrastructure upgrades. 

“We look forward to working closely with both local authorities and key stakeholders to accelerate development delivery of homes, workspace, leisure and community benefits, which over the coming decade will provide a positive impact for the region.”

Simon Elliot, TfGM head of rail, added: “As two of the most significant landowners in Manchester, it makes sense for our organisations to work together. 

“We are looking to combine our efforts to deliver more infrastructure and transportation value, whilst delivering homes that benefit local communities as well.”