THE COUNTRY’S quietest railway station may see a much more regular visitor, Metrolink services.
For the line that runs through Denton could be used to link the Tameside to Stockport and Manchester Airport.
Transport for Greater Manchester has now devised a further purpose for it – for tram-trains, technology that would see them run on both tram and train tracks.
If signed off, they would run beyond Stockport town centre, along the Denton rail line, connecting the area firmly into the wider Metrolink network.
Just 54 entries and exits were recorded at Denton Station between April 2023 and March 2024.
According to Office of Road and Rail statistics, that puts it 2,581st on the passenger usage list, no other is lower.
Just 30 full-priced entries and exit were entered over that period – equating to one every 12 days.
Add on 24 reduced-priced fares and the total makes it quieter than anywhere else.
Now the line that runs through Denton features in TfGM’s 2040 strategy for tram-trains, a sign of progress people have wanted for years.
The town’s MP, Andrew Gwynne, said: “For years I’ve campaigned, alongside the local community, for improved transport links to Denton and across the constituency.
“I’m delighted that as part of the Metrolink extension plans, TfGM are looking seriously at using the rail line as an option for tram-train services.
“Improved connectivity is key to opening up opportunities for our people and communities and supporting the growth ambitions across the city region.
“I’ve long campaigned for better transport links for Denton and I’m delighted TfGM is looking seriously at this rail line as part of the Metrolink extension plans.
“This could be transformative for our community, improving connectivity and supporting growth across the area.”
The line that runs through Denton may only be used by a ‘parliamentary’ train service between Stalybridge and Stockport once a week, but it is strategically important as it is used by freight trains as well as an alternative route in case of a blockage between Stockport and Manchester.
This further possible use was music to the ears of Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham.
He said: “For too long, Denton has been overlooked and working up the tram-train option to connect Denton and the wider area to the Metrolink is a big step toward unlocking opportunities for local residents and businesses.
“We’re committed to extending Metrolink to Stockport and beyond as part of our efforts to connect all our districts to the tram network and delivering a truly integrated transport network for everyone.”