What is described as the Parcels Platform at Preston, were in fact the old platforms 1 & 2, which were used mainly by the Flyde Line services before Preston was wired in 1974, then they were closed to passengers and converted for Parcels. It would not beyond possibility for them to be reopened for passengers, or even what is now the only through parcels platform as a new platform 1. Also it would be possible for the platform line alongside the current platform 1, could be taken out and the platform widened into the space provided. Also what is now a disused platform (the former platform 9 could also be reopened and become a new platform 7 or 8. This would along with a upgrading of the track layout a station that would be fit for the next 50+ years.
Regarding the former four tracking from Balshaw Lane to Standish Junction, I am totally in favour of it being done, with the added opportunity of new stations at both Coppull and Standish. All the land for both these potential improvements is owned by Network Rail, so apart from the usual inflated costs of doing such work, the only thing stopping it is the political will to do so.