Passengers travelling between Bolton and Manchester this week should prepare for longer journeys as late-night and early-morning train services change for essential maintenance. From 9 February to 13 February 2026, track repairs and signalling upgrades in Greater Manchester mean some trains will be cancelled or replaced by rail replacement buses.
The changes mainly affect services between 23:00 and 05:30, with Northern running amended timetables throughout the week. TransPennine Express is also changing its services through 13 February 2026, which may affect those travelling late to Manchester Airport or early towards Scotland.
Buses will replace trains at Bolton, Moses Gate, Farnworth, Kearsley and Clifton stations while Network Rail completes safety‑critical track renewals. Replacement buses will pick up and drop off passengers at Bolton Interchange and at stops near the Fairfield Street/London Road side of Manchester Piccadilly (check operator posters and apps for exact bus stop locations).
Journey times are expected to increase by around 30%, and some final departures of the night and first services of the morning are being redirected, terminated at alternative stations or replaced — passengers working late shifts or starting early should check their travel plans before heading to the station. Transport for Greater Manchester (the Bee Network) and the train operators recommend checking live timetables via the Bee Network or National Rail apps before travelling.
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