Roadworks have started on a key Manchester to Stockport road as part of plans for a new £13.9m train station in Cheadle. The scheme was given the go-ahead last week, many years after plans were first announced to bring a station back to the heart of Cheadle, with funding approved in 2022 and planning permission granted in 2023.
The new station, which will be built next to the Alexandra Hospital, is expected to run services into Stockport, Manchester Piccadilly and Chester. However, the project was held up by an unresolved timetable issue over concerns the new station could impact trains elsewhere on the network. There had been a previous proposal to remove services at Ashley and Plumley.
Roadworks begin on Manchester Road
Last week, Stockport council announced the scheme could now move forward. However, the local authority said the rail industry's latest position recognises that more work will need to be done so the removal of services at Ashley and Plumley is no longer required.
Some initial work had already begun in the area around the new station. From today (October 12), Manchester Road, which runs from East Didsbury to Cheadle, will see roadworks take place to improve the pavement in the area. The works will take place between the railway bridge and Newland Road.
Overnight works to minimise disruption
In a letter sent to people in the area, Stockport council's transport and highways officer Alex Purrier said: “The works are currently expected to start week commencing [October 12] 2026 and are anticipated to take around four weeks to complete. We do not expect access to your property to be affected. The works will take place in the evening/overnight between 6:00pm and 02:00am, Monday to Friday, although some weekend working may be needed.”
Mr Purrier added: “We will do what we can to keep disruption to a minimum and any noisier activities will be undertaken as early during each shift as possible. We would like to thank you in advance for your patience while these works are completed.”
Funding and next steps
The project was awarded £13.9m of government funding in July 2022. Due to delays over the timetable issue, inflation suggests costs could have risen to £16.3m as prices have risen by 17.8% over that period. It is understood Stockport council is currently moving ahead with the project's original budget, though there may be a need for further funding in the future as construction costs will have gone up.
Mr Purrier added: “These highway works are only the first stage of the wider scheme being brought forward. Whilst it's too early to update on the order and timing of these works, it is anticipated that there will be gaps between each phase of works. We will provide updates on the station as works progress.”
When the council announced the scheme would be going ahead, Coun Mark Roberts, Liberal Democrat leader of Stockport Council, said: “This is a hugely significant moment for Cheadle and for Stockport. For years we've fought for this station because we know the difference it will make to residents, businesses and the future prosperity of the area. Cheadle Station has always been about improving connections, creating opportunities and making it easier for people to travel for work, education and leisure and I am delighted that the highways work can now start on site later this month thanks to the persistence and partnership of all involved.”
