Road Reopens, Rails Close: What’s Happening at Stoke Station This Summer
Good news for regular users of Stoke Station: the disruption is finally coming to a close, reports Fliss Grant (and Josiah is nearly back in place, too)
Amid what feels like never-ending disruption, it seems us Stoke folk can’t catch a break. However, there’s some good news to share! The long-running roadworks on Station Road, which have caused frustration for many during a huge revamp, are finally nearing completion.
The road will reopen on Sunday 10 August, where we will be presented with a new and improved Stoke train station. Equipped with a new public space and furnishings, better pedestrian access, improved parking facilities and added bus stops with priority access for commuters. As part of the improvements, the Josiah Wedgwood statue is being reinstated, with a grand unveiling scheduled for Monday 11 August.
Unfortunately, while one road reopens, another train door closes. If you’re planning to visit Stoke-on-Trent by train this summer, you run a local business that relies on visitors, or you commute to and from Manchester for work (or vice versa), then keep reading…
From Friday 2 August to Thursday 22 August, major engineering works will be taking place just up the line in Stockport. That means the West Coast Main Line between Stoke-on-Trent, Stockport, and Manchester Piccadilly will be completely closed for the three weeks while Network Rail replaces the Greek Street Bridge.
During this time, no trains will run on this route. But don’t panic! Because we’ve got all the info you need, so that (with a bit of planning), your journey will still run smoothly during the disruption.
This project affects several major train operators. During the closure period, Avanti West Coast, Northern, CrossCountry and London Northwestern Railway services will not run between Stoke and Manchester.
This leaves us with no direct trains from Stoke to Manchester Piccadilly, a key route for both commuters and tourists.
Whilst trains are out of operation, replacement bus services will be available to connect you through Stafford, Crewe, Stockport and Macclesfield, depending on where you’re coming from.
Here is an easy-to-read guide for anyone affected by these changes:
Suggested alternative routes for visitors:
If you’re visiting Stoke-on-Trent between 2nd and 22nd August, here are some easy ways to get around the disruption:
• From London or Birmingham:
Take the train to Stafford or Crewe, then use a rail replacement bus to Stoke-on-Trent.• From Manchester:
Travel to Manchester Piccadilly, then catch a replacement bus via Macclesfield to Stoke.
• From Derby:
No big changes – the EMR Derby-Crewe-Stoke service is running as normal.• From local areas in North Staffordshire:
Use local buses (e.g. route 101) or taxi/ride-share services.
These workarounds mean you can still visit Stoke, you just might need to allow an extra 45 minutes for your journey.
Info for businesses:
If you're part of the local visitor economy, it’s important to keep guests informed.
Here’s a quick checklist of ways you can help smooth the journey for visitors.
• Communicate with your customers: send information out to customers in advance via email, by adding a banner to your website or sharing alternative routes to your social media pages.
• On-site Signage: place signs at entrances or reception desks. “Rail replacement buses in operation 2–22 August. Please allow extra time.” You could also offer printed maps or route guides where possible.
• Staff Training: make sure front-of-house teams know the travel alternatives. Be ready to explain how to get to/from Stafford, Crewe, or Manchester by bus or train.
• Collaborate with Transport Providers: a great way to get fully informed would be to confirm local bus options (e.g. First Potteries, D&G, route 101). You could also consider partnering with a local taxi firm and sharing estimated fares.
• Be Flexible & Reassuring: offer late check-in options or rescheduling where possible. Advise guests to expect longer journeys, but reassure them Stoke is worth the trip!
While the disruption may cause some delays, a bit of forward planning can make all the difference. With clear alternatives in place and improvements nearing completion, Stoke-on-Trent remains accessible and ready to welcome visitors throughout August.
Need help planning?
For the most up-to-date info, use these links:
• National Rail Journey Planner
• Network Rail
• Avanti West Coast
Good to have all of this information. Thank you.