'A modern and accessible gateway' - Magna tram train station opens

Providing what South Yorkshire Combined Mayoral Authority describe as “a modern and accessible gateway to the Magna Science Adventure Centre”, the first new station on the network for eight years was visited by train enthusiasts including YouTubers from all over the country.

It is also hoped the station on the route between Rotherham and Sheffield may help address the long-term issue of poor air quality in the area, by providing an appealing alternative to private vehicle use, on the A6178 corridor and Lower Don Valley.

One hundred free park and ride spaces are taking advantage of free space at the Magna centre, while cycle parking and EV charging facilities have also been built unto the scheme.

The station has been built around traditional railway infrastructure, but has been designed to be modern, with a new pedestrian over-bridge and step free access via lifts.

Sixteen-year-old train and tram enthusiasts Fynn Jones (16) from Chesterfield and Sean Nloga from London were on the first very tram-train to set off for Magna at 5.40am along with Sam Firbank (21) from Doncaster.

YouTuber Fynn said: “The tram-train is way better than other trams so it is great that it has branched out to Magna.

“The 100 free car parking spaces will hopefully help people save money as well as improve congestion levels and I think families and others coming to events at Magna will definitely benefit from it.”

The station is also surrounded by industry and is expected to better commuting connections for those who work in the area.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said: “The opening of Magna station is a proud moment for South Yorkshire, showing the progress we’re making as we build the South Yorkshire People’s Network.

“I can’t wait to welcome passengers at Magna when the tram train services – this is exactly what taking back control of our public transport looks like, us building the future.”

Speaking ahead of the opening, Rotherham Council leader Chris Read said: “Rotherham residents and people across the region will benefit from better, greener, transport, improving access to jobs in the Templeborough area and beyond.

“And, of course, it fits in with the bigger plan for the Don Valley Corridor between Rotherham and Sheffield – more jobs, more investment, and a transport system that supports it all.

“It’s a welcome boost, and we’re glad to have worked with partners to get it over the line,”

The project has cost more than £10m and the Department for Transport has invested £7.5m for feasibility work on potential extensions which could benefit other communities in future.

Funding for the station has come from a range of sources, including SYMCA, Network Rail, Supertram and the government.