PASSENGERS at Flixton and Hale railway stations will now have a smoother, safer ride to the city.

Work to provide real time information screens, public announcement systems and passenger help points as well station-wide CCTV at both stations has now been completed.

Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM) Head of Rail, Amanda White, said: “To make travel easier in Greater Manchester we’ve improved on the plans we had previously agreed with the train companies so that the stations in Greater Manchester can be the best in the North West.

“Providing facilities like up-to-date information displays and public address systems so it’s clear when and where trains are due and putting in help points so passengers can call for assistance all contribute to a more pleasant and assured journey experience.

“We want to play a greater role in the management and operation of rail stations, and we are speaking with the government and the train companies so we can create an integrated transport network in Greater Manchester.”

The improvements were carried out under the National Stations Improvement Programme (NSIP) with match funding provided by TfGM as part of its Rail Station Improvement Strategy (RSIS).

Since 2008, TfGM has delivered improvements at 46 rail stations across Greater Manchester as part of the RSIS programme.

Funding has been allocated for further safety, security and information enhancements at additional rail stations over the next two years. Designs for passenger help points, CCTV, real time information screens and public announcement systems are underway and a minimum of 24 stations are set to benefit from these improved facilities.

For information on public transport across Greater Manchester visit tfgm.com or call 0161 244 1000.