With the regular articles in the various media about Manchester Piccadilly platforms 13 and 14 and the required additional capacity, usually in the form of platforms 15 and 16?
I think a more radical approach is required. The problems of additional running lines between Castlefield junction and Piccadilly in a crowded city where always going to kill off any real benefits.
I think a Crossrail approach is required, a bold multi billion scheme that no one would be scared to put forward for London. Yes there would be new platforms 15 and 16, but underground!
New lines from The Old Trafford area on the CLC and Ordsal on the Chat Moss going down to replicate Castlfield junction underground and the ability to interchange with any new HS 2 station.
The lines could regain the surface lines after Slade Lane for the Airport or Guide Bridge for onward journeys across the Pennines, thus eliminating and cross junction moves in Piccadilly throat.
A good time for Andy Burnham to strike now so he has a scheme in direct competition with London's Crossrail 2. North vs South etc etc.?
I think a more radical approach is required. The problems of additional running lines between Castlefield junction and Piccadilly in a crowded city where always going to kill off any real benefits.
I think a Crossrail approach is required, a bold multi billion scheme that no one would be scared to put forward for London. Yes there would be new platforms 15 and 16, but underground!
New lines from The Old Trafford area on the CLC and Ordsal on the Chat Moss going down to replicate Castlfield junction underground and the ability to interchange with any new HS 2 station.
The lines could regain the surface lines after Slade Lane for the Airport or Guide Bridge for onward journeys across the Pennines, thus eliminating and cross junction moves in Piccadilly throat.
A good time for Andy Burnham to strike now so he has a scheme in direct competition with London's Crossrail 2. North vs South etc etc.?
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