Fresh debate has been sparked ahead of works being finished on a major railway route through Bolton . The budget announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves an announcement on fully electrifying the Bolton to Wigan line, which include stations at Lostock, Westhoughton and on to Hindley. But reaction in the borough has been mixed, with Ms Reeves' Labour colleagues welcoming the announcement, while Conservative figures say works have already been underway for several years.
Bolton West MP Phil Brickell said: “The Bolton Wigan electrification lays the foundations for Northern Powerhouse Rail. “While the project was started under the last government, albeit with repeated delays, it was not fully funded. Rachel Reeves delivered her budget on Wednesday (Image: PA) “I am delighted that the chancellor made a point of clearly stating that Bolton-Wigan electrification will be completed.
“It shows the commitment of this Labour Government to invest in infrastructure to drive economic growth and improve the lives of my constituents. “The electrification coupled with other announcements such as the expansion of Manchester Victoria will bring clear benefits to my constituents. “After years of Tory failure, Labour is fixing the foundations of our economy and providing the stability my constituents and local businesses want.
” The £100M upgrade to the line started in 2022 and is expected to be finished by 2025. As well as the electrification of the route between Bolton and Wigan it wi.
