The line was first opened to goods in 1878 and was later connected to Wigan Central, Glazebrook, Lowton St Mary's, and Culcheth.
At the outbreak of World War II lines were connected to the Royal Naval Aircraft Training Establishment at Culcheth (HMS Ariel) and the Royal Ordnance Factory at Risley.
The portion of the rail route that was acquired by Warrington was converted into a new park.
[1] Today it is home to many local community projects and a variety of wildlife.
In February 2023, it garnered worldwide attention as the park was the location of the murder of teenager Brianna Ghey.