A CAMPAIGN is underway to make Lostock Railway Station a transport hub, which would encourage people to commute by train rather than car

A lobbying group is fighting for new platforms on the Wigan line at the station, saying it would make a huge difference.

Lostock Parkway Expansion Lobby Group are aiming for the platforms to be brought in as part of the wider Bee Network plans for public transport in Greater Manchester.

Robert Inman, 29, from Heaton, runs the group and believes that extra platforms at the station would be beneficial for the local area.

Speaking to the Bolton News, he said: “Lostock is an affluent area. Access to the line could enable commuting from Lostock, which might encourage people to leave their cars.”

The group believes the reduction in car usage would help Greater Manchester to reach its clean air targets.

The Bolton News:

They have contacted Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham's office about the issue.

Robert also believes a new platform would help ease congestion: “The main way to Wigan from Lostock is through Westhoughton and having less cars on the road would ease the traffic congestion around there.”

The current platforms at the station are on the Preston to Manchester line. The Wigan line already passes through the station but doesn’t stop there.

The original design of the station included platforms for the Wigan line, when it was called Lostock Junction. However, the station was closed in the 1960s under the infamous Beeching cuts.

When it was reopened in the 1980s, only the Preston to Manchester line was operational, which is how it has remained since.

Robert also highlighted how the Wigan train continues to Southport, which would allow for days out and be another good thing for the community.

A spokesperson for TfGM said: “As part of the Bee Network we are committed to delivering a more integrated and accessible transport network across the city-region.

"Lostock train station is one of several rail stations where we have developed a Strategic Outline Business Case for potential investment and this work is continuing."